Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Differences
The primary difference between orlistat and Xenical is cost, not clinical effectiveness. Both contain exactly the same active ingredient – orlistat 120mg – which blocks approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. 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 vs £116.09).
How Both Products Work
Neither orlistat nor Xenical are GLP-1 medications. Instead, they work as lipase inhibitors in your digestive system, preventing enzymes from breaking down approximately one third of the fat you consume. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body. The mechanism is identical whether you choose generic orlistat or branded Xenical, making them clinically equivalent options for weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Pricing Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
Our pricing demonstrates clear savings with generic orlistat. For 8 weeks (168 capsules), orlistat costs £57.59 with EDM10 compared to Xenical at £78.29 – saving you £20.70. The 2-week starter pack shows orlistat at £15.20 versus Xenical at £19.35 with our 10% discount code. Both require the same three-times-daily dosing with main meals containing fat.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription orlistat. At £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat but typically causes milder gastrointestinal effects. However, the clinical effect is correspondingly reduced compared to the 120mg prescription options.
Making Your Choice
Choose generic orlistat if you want maximum value without compromising effectiveness. Select Xenical if you prefer the branded option from Roche. Both require clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers who will determine suitability based on your BMI, medical history, and weight management goals. Treatment works best when combined with a structured diet and exercise programme.
Getting Started
Complete our online health questionnaire for clinical review. If prescribed, your chosen treatment dispatches next day from our Leicester-based GPhC-registered pharmacy. Remember code EDM10 for 10% off every order, whether you select cost-effective orlistat or branded Xenical for your weight management journey.
