Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Same Active Ingredient, Different Prices
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. The key difference lies in cost - generic orlistat offers significant savings whilst delivering the same clinical effect. A 4-week supply of generic orlistat costs £29.69 with EDM10, compared to £38.69 for branded Xenical - saving you over £100 annually on a 12-week course.
How Both Products Work
Whether you choose generic orlistat or branded Xenical, the mechanism remains identical. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, potentially supporting weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Can You Lose Weight Without Dieting?
Orlistat and Xenical are not effective without dietary changes. Both medications work by reducing fat absorption, but this must be combined with a structured lower-fat, reduced-calorie eating plan. Taking orlistat whilst maintaining a high-fat diet will likely result in uncomfortable gastrointestinal side effects without meaningful weight management benefits. Success requires commitment to dietary and lifestyle modifications alongside medication.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler approach, Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. Priced at £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli offers a lower-strength starting point with typically milder side effects. However, the reduced dose means blocking a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to 120mg formulations.
Clinical Assessment Required
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber. EverydayMeds provides online consultations where you complete a detailed health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI information. Treatment is prescribed only where clinically appropriate for adults with BMI 30+ or 28+ with weight-related health conditions.
Managing Side Effects
Both products may cause gastrointestinal side effects including oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and oily spotting. These effects are more common with high-fat meals and can be minimised by keeping meal fat content low (approximately 15g per meal). Side effects often reduce as your diet adapts, and they indicate the medication is working by blocking fat absorption.
EverydayMeds Pricing Comparison
Generic Orlistat 120mg: 2 weeks £15.20, 4 weeks £29.69, 8 weeks £57.59, 12 weeks £86.39 (all with EDM10). Branded Xenical 120mg: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, 12 weeks £116.09 (all with EDM10). Every order qualifies for 10% discount with code EDM10, available to new and returning customers.
Next Steps
Choose generic orlistat for maximum value or branded Xenical if you prefer the original formulation. Both require the same online clinical assessment and are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester. Complete your consultation today for next-day delivery across the UK.
