Which Should You Choose: Generic Orlistat or Branded Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Facts
When comparing orlistat and Xenical, the most important thing to understand is that both contain exactly the same active ingredient at the same strength - orlistat 120mg. Both are taken three times daily (one capsule with each main meal containing fat), making the daily dosing identical. The primary difference lies in cost and branding, not clinical effectiveness.
Generic orlistat 120mg offers the same fat-blocking mechanism as branded Xenical but at a significantly lower price point. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Price Comparison: Substantial Savings with Generic Orlistat
The cost difference between generic orlistat and branded Xenical is considerable. For a 4-week supply (84 capsules), generic orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10 discount), while Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over a 12-week treatment course, you could save approximately £30 by choosing generic orlistat over Xenical.
Current pricing with 10% discount code EDM10:
Generic Orlistat 120mg: 2 weeks £15.20 | 4 weeks £29.69 | 8 weeks £57.59 | 12 weeks £86.39
Xenical 120mg: 2 weeks £19.35 | 4 weeks £38.69 | 8 weeks £78.29 | 12 weeks £116.09
How Many Orlistat Capsules Per Day?
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg follow the same dosing schedule: one capsule taken three times daily with each main meal containing fat. This means you'll take a maximum of three capsules per day, ideally spaced across breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you skip a meal or eat a meal containing no fat, you can skip that dose.
This dosing schedule means a 42-capsule pack provides approximately 2 weeks of treatment, while 84 capsules last around 4 weeks. For longer-term treatment, our 168-capsule (8-week) and 252-capsule (12-week) options offer better value per capsule.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment, Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. Also taken three times daily with meals, Alli may cause fewer gastrointestinal side effects while still supporting weight management. Prices start from £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10 discount.
Making Your Choice: Clinical Equivalence vs Cost Savings
Since both products are clinically equivalent, your choice often comes down to personal preference and budget considerations. Some patients prefer the reassurance of a well-known brand like Xenical, while others choose generic orlistat for the significant cost savings without compromising on effectiveness.
Both options require a prescription following clinical assessment by one of our UK-licensed prescribers. Our online consultation process reviews your medical history, current medications, and suitability for orlistat treatment, ensuring safe and appropriate prescribing.
Order Today with Next-Day UK Delivery
Ready to start your weight management journey? Complete our online clinical assessment to determine whether orlistat or Xenical is suitable for you. Following prescriber approval, your chosen treatment will be dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your address with next-day delivery available across the UK.
Use code EDM10 for 10% off your order, available to both new and returning customers. All treatments include the prescription fee, so there's no need for a separate GP appointment.
