Which Should You Choose: Generic or Branded?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Difference is Price
Generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg are clinically equivalent medications containing the same active ingredient at identical doses. Both work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption in the gut. The primary difference is cost - choosing generic orlistat over Xenical can save you over £30 on a 12-week course.
Our current pricing with EDM10 discount: orlistat 120mg (252 capsules) costs £86.39, while Xenical 120mg costs £116.09 - that's £29.70 in savings for exactly the same clinical effect.
How Both Products Work
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, the mechanism is identical. Both inhibit lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, potentially supporting weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Prescription Requirements for Both
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are prescription-only medicines requiring clinical assessment. Our online consultation process is identical for both products - you complete a medical questionnaire reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers. Treatment may be suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 28 and above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Complete Pricing Comparison
Here's how our prices compare with EDM10 discount applied:
2-week supply (42 capsules): Orlistat £15.20 vs Xenical £19.35 - save £4.15
4-week supply (84 capsules): Orlistat £29.69 vs Xenical £38.69 - save £9.00
8-week supply (168 capsules): Orlistat £57.59 vs Xenical £78.29 - save £20.70
12-week supply (252 capsules): Orlistat £86.39 vs Xenical £116.09 - save £29.70
Consider Alli 60mg as an Alternative
For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. While clinically less potent, it may be suitable for some patients and costs £49.49 for an 8-week supply with EDM10. This doesn't require a prescription but works best alongside the same dietary and lifestyle changes.
Making Your Decision
Most patients choose generic orlistat for the cost savings, but some prefer branded Xenical. Both are manufactured to the same pharmaceutical standards and dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy. Your choice won't affect clinical outcomes - both may help reduce dietary fat absorption by approximately one third when used correctly.
Order Process
Complete our online consultation for either product. Following prescriber approval, we'll dispense and dispatch your medication with next-day delivery included. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, whether you choose orlistat or Xenical.
