Which Should You Buy: Generic Orlistat or Xenical?
Taking Orlistat Without Eating: What Actually Happens
If you take orlistat or Xenical without eating, nothing harmful occurs. The medication works by blocking lipase enzymes that digest dietary fat. With no food present, there's no fat to block, so the capsule passes through your system unused. This is why you should skip your dose when missing meals or eating fat-free foods.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Identical Clinical Effect
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain the same active ingredient at identical doses. They work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption when taken with meals containing fat. The clinical effect is identical - the key difference is cost. Generic orlistat costs £29.69 for 84 capsules (4-week supply) compared to Xenical at £38.69 with our EDM10 discount code.
Cost Comparison: Significant Savings Available
Generic orlistat offers substantial savings over branded Xenical. Our pricing with EDM10 discount: Orlistat 84 capsules £29.69 vs Xenical 84 capsules £38.69 - saving £9 monthly. For 12-week supplies, orlistat costs £86.39 compared to Xenical at £116.09, saving £29.70. Both are prescribed following clinical assessment and dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy.
When to Consider Alli 60mg Instead
Alli 60mg offers half the strength of prescription orlistat, potentially with milder side effects. At £26.09 for 42 capsules (4-week supply) with EDM10, it bridges the gap between no treatment and full-strength orlistat. Some patients prefer starting with the lower dose before progressing to 120mg strength if needed.
Proper Dosing: With Meals Only
Take one capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat. Take immediately before, during, or up to one hour after eating. If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, skip that dose entirely. This prevents unnecessary medication intake and potential vitamin malabsorption when no dietary fat is present to block.
Online Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following online clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers. Complete our medical questionnaire covering BMI, health history, and current medications. Prescriptions are issued where clinically appropriate for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions. Next day delivery available across the UK.
Making Your Choice
Choose generic orlistat for maximum value without compromising clinical effect. Both products work identically - orlistat simply costs less. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order. Our Leicester-based GPhC-registered pharmacy ensures regulated supply with discreet, tracked delivery. Start your clinical assessment today to access either option subject to prescriber approval.


