Which Should You Choose: Generic or Branded?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Essential Comparison
When researching orlistat, you'll encounter two prescription options: generic Orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg. Both contain identical active ingredients at the same dose, meaning their clinical effects are equivalent. The fundamental difference lies in cost, not effectiveness.
How Much Fat Per Meal With Both Products?
Whether you choose Orlistat or Xenical, the dietary guidance remains identical. Both work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. To minimise gastrointestinal side effects, keep each meal to approximately 15g fat or less. This translates to roughly 30% of daily calories from fat, spread evenly across three main meals. Higher fat meals significantly increase the likelihood of oily stools and urgent bowel movements.
Price Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
Generic Orlistat 120mg offers substantial savings compared to branded Xenical. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £32.99 for Orlistat vs £42.99 for Xenical - saving you £10 monthly. With code EDM10, these prices reduce to £29.69 and £38.69 respectively, maintaining the £9 monthly saving. Over a 12-week treatment course, choosing generic Orlistat saves approximately £33 compared to Xenical.
Clinical Effectiveness: Identical Results
Both Orlistat and Xenical contain 120mg orlistat and work through the same mechanism - inhibiting lipase enzymes in the gut. This prevents approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed, with unabsorbed fat passing naturally through the digestive system. Clinical studies show no difference in weight management outcomes between generic and branded formulations.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler approach, Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. Whilst less potent at blocking dietary fat absorption, Alli typically produces milder side effects. A 4-week supply costs £28.99 (£26.09 with EDM10), making it competitively priced against both prescription options.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic Orlistat 120mg for maximum value without compromising effectiveness. The monthly savings add up significantly over longer treatment courses. Select branded Xenical if you prefer the assurance of the original branded product, knowing you'll receive identical clinical benefits. Both require the same approach to meal planning and fat intake management.
Order Online Today
Purchase either Orlistat or Xenical following online clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers. Our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester provides next-day delivery across the UK. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, whether you're a new or returning customer. All medication is dispensed to the same regulatory standards as high street pharmacies.
