Orlistat vs Xenical: Making Your Purchase Decision
Same Active Ingredient, Different Prices
The most important fact when comparing orlistat vs Xenical is that both contain exactly the same active ingredient - orlistat 120mg - at identical doses. This means the clinical effect is the same whether you choose generic orlistat or branded Xenical. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut to block approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed.
The key difference lies in cost. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 for the same 84 capsules (£38.69 with EDM10). Over a typical 12-week course, choosing generic orlistat saves you approximately £27 compared to Xenical.
Which Should You Buy?
Your choice between orlistat and Xenical may depend on personal preference and budget. Some patients prefer branded Xenical from manufacturer Roche, whilst others choose generic orlistat for better value. Both require the same online clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber and work identically when taken three times daily with main meals containing fat.
Consider Alli 60mg as a lower-strength alternative. At half the dose of prescription orlistat, Alli costs £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10 and may suit those preferring a gentler starting approach to weight management.
EverydayMeds Pricing Comparison
Our GPhC-registered pharmacy offers competitive pricing on all orlistat products. For 12-week supplies: generic orlistat costs £86.39 with EDM10, Xenical costs £116.09 with EDM10, and Alli 60mg costs £116.99 with EDM10. All prices include the online prescription consultation with our qualified UK prescribers.
Use discount code EDM10 for 10% off every order - this applies to both new and returning customers on all orlistat, Xenical and Alli purchases.
The Online Prescription Process
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, the process is identical. Complete our online health questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications, and BMI information. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your assessment and issues a prescription if clinically appropriate. Your chosen medication is then dispensed by our Leicester-based pharmacy and dispatched for next day delivery.
This regulated process replaces the need for a face-to-face GP appointment whilst maintaining the same clinical standards. Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are prescription-only medicines requiring individual clinical assessment before supply.
What to Expect From Treatment
Regardless of whether you buy orlistat or Xenical, both may help reduce the amount of dietary fat absorbed when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Keep your fat intake to approximately 15g per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects such as oily stools or urgent bowel movements.
Most patients find side effects reduce over time as their diet adapts. Taking a multivitamin at bedtime is recommended as orlistat may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Both medications work best when combined with regular physical activity and ongoing dietary support.
