Which Orlistat Product Should You Choose?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Differences
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose, providing clinically equivalent effects. The primary difference lies in cost and branding. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) for a 4-week supply, whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) for the same period. Both require a prescription following clinical assessment and work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli contains orlistat at 60mg strength - half the dose of prescription orlistat and Xenical. This lower dose typically produces milder gastrointestinal side effects whilst still supporting weight management. A 4-week supply costs £28.99 (£26.09 with EDM10). Alli may be suitable for those preferring a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment, though the clinical effect is correspondingly reduced compared to 120mg formulations.
Cost Comparison: Your Savings Breakdown
Choosing generic orlistat 120mg over Xenical delivers substantial savings whilst maintaining identical clinical benefits. For 12-week treatment, orlistat costs £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10) - saving approximately £30 over three months. These savings add up significantly for longer-term weight management programmes. All prices include the private prescription, eliminating separate GP consultation fees.
How All Three Products Work
Orlistat works identically across all formulations by inhibiting lipase enzymes in the gut, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through the digestive system. This mechanism operates locally in the gut rather than affecting the brain, making orlistat different from appetite suppressants. Maximum effectiveness requires combining treatment with a structured lower-fat, reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Which Strength Is Right for You?
Your prescriber will recommend the most suitable option following clinical assessment. Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are typically prescribed for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. The choice between generic and branded often comes down to personal preference and budget considerations. Alli 60mg may be considered for those seeking lower-dose treatment, though clinical guidance remains essential.
Order Process and Delivery
Complete our online health questionnaire for review by UK-licensed prescribers. If treatment is deemed appropriate, your chosen orlistat product is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and dispatched with next-day delivery. Use code EDM10 at checkout for 10% off every order. All packaging is discreet, and your prescription is included in the price with no additional fees.
