Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: Identical Clinical Effect
Both orlistat 120mg capsules and Xenical 120mg capsules contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. Each requires 3 capsules daily - one with each main meal containing fat. The dosing schedule is identical regardless of which option you choose. Following an online clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber, either medication may be prescribed where clinically appropriate for weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
The Price Difference
Generic orlistat offers significant savings over branded Xenical. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £32.99 for orlistat versus £42.99 for Xenical - that's £10 extra monthly for the branded option. With our EDM10 discount code, prices drop to £29.69 for orlistat and £38.69 for Xenical, maintaining the £9 monthly saving with generic orlistat. Over 12 weeks, you could save £27 choosing generic orlistat at £86.39 versus Xenical at £116.09.
How Many Tablets Per Day?
Both orlistat and Xenical follow the same dosing protocol: 3 capsules daily, taken immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal containing fat. If you skip a meal or eat something fat-free, you can omit that dose. This means 21 capsules per week for both medications. Our pack sizes accommodate this: 42 capsules provide 2 weeks' treatment, 84 capsules cover 4 weeks, 168 capsules last 8 weeks, and 252 capsules provide 12 weeks' supply.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli contains half the orlistat dose at 60mg per capsule, still taken 3 times daily with main meals. While less potent than prescription-strength orlistat or Xenical, Alli may suit those preferring a lower-dose starting point. At £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli sits between generic orlistat and branded Xenical pricing while offering a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat 120mg for maximum cost-effectiveness without compromising clinical benefit. The generic version works identically to Xenical, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption through the same lipase inhibitor mechanism. Some patients prefer branded Xenical for personal preference, while others prioritise the substantial savings offered by generic orlistat. Both options are dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy following prescriber approval.
Order Today with EDM10
Whether you choose cost-effective generic orlistat or branded Xenical, save 10% on every order with code EDM10. Complete our online clinical assessment for prescriber review, with next day delivery available across the UK. All orders include the prescription fee with no separate GP appointment required. Start your weight management journey with the orlistat option that suits your preferences and budget.


