Which Should You Choose: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Clinical Facts
Both Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. They work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, helping reduce calorie intake when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Clinically, there is no difference in effectiveness - both may help support weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 28 or above with weight-related health conditions.
The Price Difference That Matters
Generic Orlistat 120mg offers substantial savings compared to branded Xenical. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £29.69 with code EDM10, whilst Xenical costs £38.69 - saving you £9 monthly. Over a 12-week treatment course, choose Orlistat at £86.39 versus Xenical at £116.09, saving £29.70. For budget-conscious patients seeking the same clinical benefits, generic Orlistat delivers identical results at significantly lower cost.
Why Some Patients Choose Xenical
Branded Xenical, manufactured by Roche, may be preferred by patients who favour established pharmaceutical brands. Some individuals feel more confident with branded medication, whilst others prioritise value with generic alternatives. Both undergo the same rigorous MHRA regulation and quality standards. Your choice between Orlistat and Xenical should be based on personal preference and budget, not clinical effectiveness - they're medically equivalent.
Consider Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Option
Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat, potentially with milder gastrointestinal effects. At £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, Alli sits between generic Orlistat and branded Xenical in price. While less potent than 120mg formulations, Alli may suit patients preferring a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment. All three options require the same commitment to a lower-fat diet for optimal results.
Your Online Prescription Process
Whether you choose Orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, our UK-licensed prescribers will assess your suitability through a comprehensive online health questionnaire. This covers your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. Following prescriber approval, your chosen treatment is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and delivered discreetly to your address with next day tracking. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.
Making Your Decision
For identical clinical benefits at the lowest cost, choose generic Orlistat 120mg. For branded preference with the same effectiveness, select Xenical 120mg. For a lower-strength starting point, consider Alli 60mg. All three support weight management by reducing dietary fat absorption when combined with lifestyle changes. Complete your online consultation today to determine which option suits your needs and budget.


