Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Facts
When deciding between generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg, the most important fact is simple: they contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, supporting weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Price Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
The primary difference between these medications is cost. Generic orlistat 120mg offers substantial savings compared to branded Xenical. For a 4-week supply (84 capsules), orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) whilst Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) - saving you approximately £9 per month. Over a 12-week treatment period, choosing generic orlistat saves £33 compared to Xenical, with identical clinical effectiveness.
Clinical Effectiveness: No Difference
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are clinically equivalent. They contain the same active ingredient, work through the same mechanism, and are taken the same way - one capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat. The dosage is identical, the side effect profile is identical, and the clinical outcomes are identical. Some patients prefer branded Xenical for personal preference, whilst others choose generic orlistat for value.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler starting point, Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. At £26.09 for a 4-week supply (with EDM10), Alli provides a lower-strength option that may suit patients who want to begin with reduced potency. However, Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to the 120mg prescription strength.
Your Prescription Options
All orlistat products require clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber. Our online consultation process reviews your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. Following prescriber approval, your chosen medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your address with next-day delivery available across the UK.
Which Pack Size Should You Choose?
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are available in multiple pack sizes. The 84-capsule pack (4-week supply) is most popular for first-time users, allowing you to assess tolerance and effectiveness. The 168-capsule pack (8-week supply) offers better value per capsule, whilst the 252-capsule pack (12-week supply) provides maximum savings - £86.39 for generic orlistat compared to £116.09 for Xenical with EDM10.
Order Today with 10% Discount
Ready to start your weight management journey? Use code EDM10 at checkout for 10% off your order - available for both new and returning customers. Choose generic orlistat for maximum savings or branded Xenical if you prefer the original branded version. Both require the same online consultation and are supplied by the same GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester.


