Which Should You Choose: Orlistat or Xenical?
How Orlistat and Xenical Work - Not Appetite Suppressants
Neither orlistat nor Xenical stops you feeling hungry. These medicines work by blocking lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body. This mechanism acts locally in the gut rather than affecting brain chemistry or appetite centres, which is why you won't experience reduced hunger.
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose, providing clinically equivalent effects when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity.
Price Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
Generic orlistat offers significant savings compared to branded Xenical whilst delivering identical clinical effects. Current EverydayMeds pricing with EDM10 discount:
Orlistat 120mg (Generic):
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 (Branded):
2 weeks (42 capsules): £19.35
4 weeks (84 capsules): £38.69
8 weeks (168 capsules): £78.29
12 weeks (252 capsules): £116.09
Choosing generic orlistat saves approximately £9 monthly compared to Xenical - that's over £100 annually for identical clinical effects.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription orlistat, providing a lower-strength option that blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat. Priced from £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli may suit those preferring a gentler starting point, though clinical effects are correspondingly reduced compared to the 120mg prescription strength.
Clinical Assessment and Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following online clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers. Complete the confidential health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI information. Your prescriber reviews suitability and issues prescription where clinically appropriate for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health factors.
Managing Expectations and Side Effects
Since orlistat doesn't suppress appetite, you'll need to actively manage portion sizes and choose lower-fat foods. Most side effects are gastrointestinal and directly related to fat intake - keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each significantly reduces oily stools, urgency, and abdominal discomfort. These effects indicate the medicine is working by preventing fat absorption.
Order Today with 10% Discount
Choose cost-effective generic orlistat or branded Xenical based on your preference and budget. Apply code EDM10 for 10% off every order. Next day delivery available from our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with discreet, tracked packaging to your address.
