Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Clinical Facts
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are clinically equivalent medicines. Both contain exactly the same active ingredient (orlistat) at the same dose, working identically to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. Generic Orlistat offers the same mechanism of action as branded Xenical - inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut to prevent fat absorption. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your digestive system.
Price Comparison: Significant Savings Available
The main difference between these products is cost. Our pricing with 10% off code EDM10 shows clear savings with generic Orlistat. For a 4-week supply (84 capsules): Orlistat costs £29.69 versus Xenical at £38.69 - saving you £9 per month. Over 12 weeks, you save £29.70 choosing generic Orlistat (£86.39) versus Xenical (£116.09). Both require the same prescription process and clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
How Quickly Do Both Products Work?
Orlistat and Xenical work immediately when taken with fat-containing meals. Each 120mg capsule blocks approximately one third of fat from that specific meal when taken immediately before, during, or up to one hour after eating. The blocked fat passes through your body within 24-48 hours. Both products support weight management identically when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli contains half the dose of orlistat (60mg) compared to prescription-strength options. While less potent, Alli may suit those preferring a gentler starting approach. Our Alli pricing: 4 weeks £26.09, 8 weeks £49.49, 12 weeks £116.99 (all with EDM10). However, many patients find prescription-strength Orlistat 120mg more cost-effective for comparable treatment periods.
Online Prescription Process
Both Orlistat and Xenical require prescription following clinical assessment. Complete our online health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI details. Our UK-licensed prescribers review your information and issue prescriptions where clinically appropriate. Treatment is typically suitable for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions. Prescription cost is included - no separate GP appointment needed.
Managing Side Effects with Either Product
Both products may cause identical gastrointestinal side effects including oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and oily anal discharge. These effects indicate the medicine is working to block fat absorption. Keep dietary fat intake low (approximately 15g per meal) to minimise side effects significantly. Most patients find side effects reduce as they adapt to a lower-fat diet.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose generic Orlistat 120mg for maximum savings while receiving identical clinical benefits. Choose branded Xenical if you prefer the original manufacturer (Roche) and don't mind paying extra. Both are dispensed from our GPhC-registered pharmacy with next-day delivery across the UK. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.
