Which Should You Choose: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: Same Medicine, Different Price
Does Xenical work better than generic orlistat? The clinical answer is straightforward - both contain exactly the same active ingredient (orlistat 120mg) at identical doses. Whether you choose generic orlistat or branded Xenical, you receive the same lipase-inhibiting medication that blocks approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The key difference lies in cost, not clinical effectiveness.
Generic orlistat 120mg costs from £15.20 for a 2-week supply (42 capsules) with code EDM10, whilst branded Xenical costs £19.35 for the same quantity. Over a 12-week course, choosing generic orlistat saves approximately £30 compared to Xenical - significant savings for identical clinical outcomes.
How Both Products Work
Orlistat and Xenical work through the same mechanism of action. Both inhibit lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed into your body. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your system, supporting weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Neither product is a complete fat blocker - approximately two thirds of dietary fat is still absorbed normally. Both require the same dosing schedule: one 120mg capsule taken three times daily with each main meal containing fat.
Pricing Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
Our current pricing for both options shows clear savings with generic orlistat:
Orlistat 120mg (Generic):
• 2 weeks: £16.89 → £15.20 with EDM10
• 4 weeks: £32.99 → £29.69 with EDM10
• 12 weeks: £95.99 → £86.39 with EDM10
Xenical 120mg (Branded):
• 2 weeks: £21.50 → £19.35 with EDM10
• 4 weeks: £42.99 → £38.69 with EDM10
• 12 weeks: £128.99 → £116.09 with EDM10
The monthly saving of choosing generic orlistat is approximately £9, making it the cost-effective choice for long-term weight management programmes.
Alternative: Alli 60mg
Consider Alli 60mg as a lower-strength alternative. Containing half the dose of prescription orlistat, Alli may suit those preferring a gentler starting approach. Priced from £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat and typically causes milder gastrointestinal side effects.
Order Your Preferred Option Today
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following online clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers. Complete our medical questionnaire, receive prescriber review, and choose your preferred option based on budget considerations. All orders include free prescription, dispensing by our GPhC-registered pharmacy, and discreet next day delivery across the UK.
Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, whether choosing cost-effective generic orlistat or branded Xenical. Start your weight management programme with the clinically identical option that suits your budget.
