Which Should You Choose: Generic or Branded?
Orlistat vs Xenical: Identical Treatment, Different Prices
When comparing Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg, the key difference is cost rather than clinical effectiveness. Both medications contain exactly the same active ingredient - orlistat 120mg - and work identically by inhibiting lipase enzymes to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. Generic Orlistat offers substantial savings: a 4-week supply costs £29.69 with EDM10, compared to £38.69 for branded Xenical. Over 12 weeks, you save £29.70 by choosing generic Orlistat (£86.39) versus Xenical (£116.09).
How Both Medications Work
Orlistat and Xenical function through the same mechanism - blocking lipase enzymes in your digestive system. This prevents approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed, with unabsorbed fat passing naturally through your body. Both require the same dosing schedule: one 120mg capsule with each main meal containing fat, up to three times daily. The medication works best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler approach, Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. At £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli offers a middle-ground option between no treatment and full-strength prescription medication. The lower dose typically produces milder gastrointestinal side effects whilst still supporting weight management efforts.
Pricing Comparison: All Options
Generic Orlistat 120mg represents the most cost-effective choice. Compare our prices with 10% EDM10 discount: 2 weeks (42 capsules) £15.20, 4 weeks (84 capsules) £29.69, 8 weeks (168 capsules) £57.59, 12 weeks (252 capsules) £86.39. Xenical 120mg costs: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, 12 weeks £116.09. Alli 60mg: 4 weeks £26.09, 8 weeks £49.49, 12 weeks £116.99. All prices include prescription and clinical assessment.
Clinical Assessment Process
Both Orlistat and Xenical require prescription following online clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers. The consultation covers medical history, current medications, BMI calculation, and weight-related health factors. Suitability is typically assessed for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Treatment approval depends on individual health circumstances and prescriber discretion.
Managing Side Effects
Both medications may cause similar gastrointestinal side effects including oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and abdominal discomfort. These effects are more common when eating high-fat meals and typically reduce as diet adapts. Keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each significantly minimises side effects. Both treatments require fat-soluble vitamin supplementation taken at bedtime.
Order Your Preferred Treatment
Ready to start treatment? Choose generic Orlistat for maximum value or branded Xenical if you prefer the original formulation. Both are dispensed from our GPhC-registered pharmacy with next-day tracked delivery. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order. Complete our online consultation to begin your clinical assessment today.
