Which Orlistat Product Should You Choose?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Differences
When comparing orlistat and Xenical, the most important fact is that both contain exactly the same active ingredient - orlistat 120mg. Clinically, they work identically by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The primary difference lies in cost and branding.
Generic orlistat 120mg represents exceptional value at £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 for the same period (£38.69 with EDM10). This means choosing generic orlistat can save you approximately £9 per month compared to the branded alternative.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli weight loss capsules contain half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. This lower-strength option may be suitable for those preferring a gentler starting point, though it blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to 120mg formulations. Alli costs £28.99 for a 4-week supply (£26.09 with EDM10).
Clinical Effectiveness Comparison
All three products work through the same mechanism - orlistat blocks lipase enzymes locally in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of consumed fat from being absorbed. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body. Both 120mg options (generic orlistat and Xenical) provide identical clinical effects when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Individual responses vary, but the active ingredient concentration determines effectiveness - 120mg formulations block more dietary fat than the 60mg Alli alternative. Your prescriber will assess which strength may be most appropriate following your online clinical assessment.
Price Comparison and Savings
Here's how the costs compare across different treatment durations with our EDM10 discount:
2-Week Supply: Orlistat £15.20 vs Xenical £19.35 vs Alli £26.09 (8-week pack)
4-Week Supply: Orlistat £29.69 vs Xenical £38.69 vs Alli £26.09
8-Week Supply: Orlistat £57.59 vs Xenical £78.29 vs Alli £49.49
12-Week Supply: Orlistat £86.39 vs Xenical £116.09 vs Alli £116.99
Generic orlistat consistently offers the best value for 120mg prescription strength, whilst Alli provides a cost-effective lower-strength option for extended treatment periods.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat 120mg if you want maximum clinical effectiveness at the lowest cost. This represents the most popular choice amongst our patients seeking prescription-strength fat blocking support.
Select Xenical 120mg if you prefer a branded product from Roche and don't mind paying extra for the same clinical effect as generic orlistat.
Consider Alli 60mg if you prefer starting with a lower-strength option or want a more cost-effective choice for longer treatment periods.
Order Process and Delivery
All three products require completion of our online health questionnaire, followed by review from a UK-licensed prescriber. Once approved, your chosen treatment is dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your address with next-day delivery available. Remember to use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.
