Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Can You Take Orlistat on an Empty Stomach?
No, you should not take orlistat on an empty stomach. Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption from meals. Without food containing fat, there's nothing for the medication to act upon. Take one capsule immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal that contains fat. If you skip a meal or eat something fat-free, you can skip that dose entirely.
Orlistat 120mg vs Xenical 120mg: Key Differences
The most important difference between orlistat and Xenical is price, not clinical effect. Both contain identical 120mg orlistat and work in exactly the same way. Generic orlistat costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10) whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over 12 weeks, choosing orlistat saves you approximately £27 compared to Xenical. Both require the same online clinical assessment and prescription from our UK-licensed prescribers.
When to Take Orlistat: Timing With Meals
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, the dosing schedule remains identical. Take one 120mg capsule three times daily with your main meals. The key is timing it with fat-containing food — breakfast, lunch, and dinner work well for most people. Keep fat intake to approximately 15g per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects. If you forget a dose, simply take the next one with your following meal.
Orlistat Pricing Comparison
Our Leicester-based GPhC-registered pharmacy offers competitive pricing on both options. Generic orlistat 120mg: 2 weeks £15.20, 4 weeks £29.69, 8 weeks £57.59, 12 weeks £86.39 (all with EDM10). Xenical 120mg costs: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, 12 weeks £116.09 (with EDM10). Both include the online consultation and prescription — no separate GP appointment needed.
Consider Alli 60mg as Lower-Strength Alternative
If you're concerned about side effects or prefer starting with a lower dose, Alli 60mg contains half the strength of prescription orlistat. At £26.09 for 4 weeks (with EDM10), it offers a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment. Many patients find the lower dose causes fewer gastrointestinal side effects whilst still supporting weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Order Today: Next Day Delivery Available
Complete our online clinical assessment to determine your suitability for orlistat or Xenical. Following prescriber approval, we'll dispense and dispatch your medication with next day delivery across the UK. Use code EDM10 at checkout for 10% off every order. Our qualified UK-licensed prescribers will review your information and prescribe the most suitable option where clinically appropriate.
