Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Calorie Guidelines for Orlistat and Xenical
Whether you choose generic orlistat or branded Xenical, the calorie recommendations remain identical since both contain 120mg of the same active ingredient. For optimal results, aim for approximately 30% of daily calories from fat, spread evenly across three main meals. This typically means around 15g fat per meal on a 1,200-1,500 calorie daily diet. Lower fat intake per meal significantly reduces gastrointestinal side effects while maximising the medication's effectiveness in blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption.
Generic Orlistat 120mg: Best Value Option
Generic orlistat delivers the same clinical effect as Xenical at a lower cost. Our 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £32.99, reduced to £29.69 with code EDM10. The 12-week supply offers even better value at £95.99 (£86.39 with discount). Generic orlistat works by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. Many patients choose generic orlistat for the cost savings without compromising on effectiveness.
Xenical 120mg: The Branded Alternative
Xenical by Roche contains identical 120mg orlistat but costs £42.99 for 4 weeks (£38.69 with EDM10). Some patients prefer the branded option for peace of mind, though the clinical effect remains identical to generic orlistat. Both require the same reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet approach and one capsule with each main meal containing fat. The choice between Xenical and generic orlistat often comes down to personal preference and budget considerations.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler starting dose, Alli 60mg offers half the strength of prescription orlistat. At £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10), Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat but typically produces milder side effects. However, the lower dose also means reduced effectiveness compared to the 120mg prescription-strength options. Consider discussing with your prescriber whether 60mg or 120mg is more suitable for your weight management goals.
Your Online Prescription Process
Getting either orlistat or Xenical through EverydayMeds involves a simple online clinical assessment. Complete our medical questionnaire covering your BMI, health history, and current medications. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and issues a prescription where clinically appropriate. Your chosen medication is then dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and delivered discretely with next-day delivery available. The prescription cost is included—no separate GP appointment needed.
Which Option Offers Best Value?
For most patients, generic orlistat 120mg provides the best combination of clinical effectiveness and value. The 12-week supply at £86.39 (with EDM10) works out to approximately £2.88 per day—significantly less than Xenical's equivalent cost of £3.87 daily. Both options require the same dietary commitment and produce identical results when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat eating plan and regular physical activity.
