Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Same Medicine, Different Price: The Key Facts
When deciding how to lose weight with orlistat, the most important fact to understand is that orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. Both work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption in your gut, supporting weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. The clinical effect is identical - the key difference is cost.
Price Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
Generic orlistat offers significant savings compared to branded Xenical. For a 4-week supply, orlistat costs £29.69 with code EDM10, whilst Xenical costs £38.69 - saving you £9 per month. Over 12 weeks, choose orlistat for £86.39 or Xenical for £116.09, representing a £29.70 saving with the generic option. Both require the same prescription process and clinical assessment.
How Both Products Work for Weight Loss
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, the mechanism is identical. Both inhibit lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, supporting calorie reduction as part of a structured weight management programme. Take one capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler starting point, Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. At £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, Alli provides a lower-strength option that may produce milder side effects whilst still supporting fat absorption reduction. Consider discussing with your prescriber which strength suits your needs.
Who Can Use Orlistat or Xenical?
Both products may be suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Suitability depends on individual clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber. Our online consultation process reviews your medical history to determine whether orlistat treatment is appropriate for your circumstances.
Managing Side Effects with Both Products
Side effects are identical whether using orlistat or Xenical, as both contain the same active ingredient. Most side effects are gastrointestinal and directly related to dietary fat intake. Keep meals to approximately 15g fat each to minimise oily stools, flatulence, or urgent bowel movements. These effects indicate the medicine is working and typically reduce as you adapt to a lower-fat diet.
Order Today: Fast, Discreet Delivery
Both orlistat and Xenical are available through our regulated online prescription service. Complete your clinical assessment, receive prescriber approval, and we'll dispatch your order from our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with next day delivery. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, whether choosing cost-effective orlistat or branded Xenical.
