Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Daily Dosing: How Many Orlistat Capsules Per Day
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg follow identical dosing schedules. Take one capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat - immediately before, during, or up to one hour after eating. If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, you can omit that dose. This means each 84-capsule pack provides approximately 4 weeks of treatment, whilst 168-capsule packs last around 8 weeks.
Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical: Clinical Equivalence
Generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. Both work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption through lipase enzyme inhibition in the gut. Clinical effects are equivalent - the primary difference lies in cost and manufacturer. Roche produces branded Xenical, whilst various licensed manufacturers supply generic orlistat under MHRA regulation.
Cost Comparison: Significant Savings Available
Generic orlistat offers substantial savings versus branded Xenical. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £32.99 for orlistat versus £42.99 for Xenical - that's £10 monthly savings. With code EDM10, prices reduce to £29.69 for orlistat and £38.69 for Xenical, maintaining the £9 monthly difference. Over 12 weeks, generic orlistat costs £86.39 compared to Xenical's £116.09 - saving £29.70 per treatment course.
Lower-Strength Alternative: Alli 60mg
Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat, taken three times daily with meals. At £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli provides a lower-strength starting point. However, the reduced dose blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to prescription-strength options. Many patients progress to 120mg formulations for enhanced weight management support.
Online Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following clinical assessment. Complete our online health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI information. UK-licensed prescribers review applications and issue prescriptions where clinically appropriate for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions. Treatment is dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with tracked next-day delivery across the UK.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Consider generic orlistat if cost-effectiveness is important - you'll receive identical clinical benefits at lower prices. Choose branded Xenical if you prefer established pharmaceutical branding. Both options work alongside reduced-calorie, lower-fat diets to support weight management. Your prescriber can advise on the most suitable option following assessment. Apply code EDM10 at checkout for 10% off either choice.
