Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Buy?
Does Orlistat Affect Birth Control Pills?
Orlistat doesn't directly interfere with hormonal birth control methods like the contraceptive pill, patch, or ring. However, if you experience severe diarrhoea while taking orlistat, this may reduce absorption of your contraceptive pill, potentially making it less effective. This risk applies equally to both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg since they contain the same active ingredient. If you experience persistent diarrhoea, consult your healthcare provider about additional contraceptive precautions and consider whether continuing orlistat treatment is appropriate for you.
Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical: The Key Differences
The most important difference between orlistat and Xenical is price, not clinical effectiveness. Both contain 120mg of orlistat and work identically by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10), while branded Xenical costs £42.99 for 4 weeks (£38.69 with EDM10). This means choosing generic orlistat saves you £9 per month without compromising on results. Both versions require the same prescription process and clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
Current Orlistat and Xenical Prices at EverydayMeds
Our competitive pricing makes weight management more affordable. Generic orlistat 120mg: 2 weeks £16.89 (£15.20 with EDM10), 4 weeks £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10), 8 weeks £63.99 (£57.59 with EDM10), and 12 weeks £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10). Branded Xenical 120mg: 2 weeks £21.50 (£19.35 with EDM10), 4 weeks £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10), 8 weeks £86.99 (£78.29 with EDM10), and 12 weeks £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10). Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.
What About Alli 60mg?
Alli contains half the dose of orlistat at 60mg per capsule, making it a lower-strength alternative that typically causes milder side effects. However, it also blocks less dietary fat absorption compared to prescription-strength orlistat 120mg or Xenical 120mg. Alli costs £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10). If you're concerned about potential gastrointestinal side effects affecting your daily routine or contraceptive pill absorption, starting with Alli 60mg might be worth discussing with your prescriber.
How to Order Orlistat or Xenical Online
Getting your prescription orlistat or Xenical is straightforward through our regulated online service. Complete our confidential health questionnaire, including details about your current medications and contraception. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and issues a prescription if clinically appropriate. Your chosen treatment is then dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and dispatched for next-day delivery. The prescription consultation is included in the price - no separate GP appointment needed.
Managing Side Effects to Protect Birth Control Effectiveness
To minimise the risk of severe diarrhoea that could affect contraceptive absorption, keep your fat intake low - approximately 15g per meal spread across three daily meals. This significantly reduces gastrointestinal side effects while maintaining orlistat's effectiveness. If you do experience severe or persistent diarrhoea, contact your prescriber immediately and consider using additional contraceptive precautions until symptoms resolve. Both orlistat and Xenical work best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
