Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical: Which Should You Buy?
Same Active Ingredient, Different Price
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg 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. Clinically, there's no difference in effectiveness between generic orlistat and branded Xenical - the key distinction is cost.
Price Comparison: Significant Savings with Generic Orlistat
Generic orlistat 120mg offers substantial savings over branded Xenical. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £29.69 with code EDM10, compared to £38.69 for Xenical - saving you £9 per month. For a 12-week supply, you'll save over £29 choosing orlistat (£86.39) versus Xenical (£116.09). Both products require the same dosage: one capsule with each main meal containing fat, up to three times daily.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. Whilst clinically less potent than the 120mg versions, it may suit those preferring a lower-strength starting point. Alli costs £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, though each capsule contains less active ingredient than prescription orlistat or Xenical.
Online Prescription Process
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are prescription-only medicines requiring clinical assessment. Our online consultation involves completing a health questionnaire reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers. If clinically appropriate, your prescription is issued and dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester. The process typically takes 24 hours, with next day delivery available across the UK.
Who May Be Suitable?
Orlistat and Xenical may be prescribed for adults with BMI 30kg/m² or above, or 28kg/m² with weight-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Both must be used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity. Your prescriber will assess individual suitability based on your health circumstances and medical history.
Managing Side Effects
Both products may cause gastrointestinal side effects including oily stools, increased bowel movements, and abdominal discomfort. These effects are directly linked to dietary fat intake - keeping meals low in fat (approximately 15g per meal) significantly reduces side effects. Like all prescription medicines, orlistat and Xenical require careful adherence to dosing instructions and dietary guidance.
