Generic vs Branded: Making Your Purchase Decision
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Essential Facts
When choosing between orlistat and Xenical, you're comparing a generic medicine against its branded equivalent. Both contain orlistat 120mg as the active ingredient and work identically by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The clinical effect, dosing (one capsule three times daily with meals), and side effect profile are the same. The primary difference lies in price and manufacturer branding.
Cost Comparison: Why Choose Generic Orlistat?
Generic orlistat delivers significant savings compared to branded Xenical. At EverydayMeds, orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over a 12-week treatment course, choosing generic orlistat saves approximately £30 compared to Xenical. Both options include the online clinical assessment and prescription, making generic orlistat the cost-effective choice for identical clinical benefits.
When Patients Choose Branded Xenical
Some patients prefer branded Xenical despite the higher cost. Xenical is manufactured by Roche and has been available longer than generic alternatives. However, generic orlistat undergoes the same rigorous regulatory approval process and meets identical quality standards. Both are dispensed by GPhC-registered pharmacies and require prescription following clinical assessment. The choice often comes down to personal preference versus cost savings.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli contains orlistat at 60mg strength - half the dose of prescription orlistat and Xenical. At £26.09 for 4 weeks (with EDM10), Alli offers a lower-strength starting point for those preferring gradual introduction. However, the reduced dose means blocking a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to prescription-strength options. Alli requires the same clinical assessment process as the 120mg products.
Your Online Clinical Assessment Process
Whether choosing orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, treatment begins with an online clinical assessment. Our UK-licensed prescribers review your medical history, current medications, and BMI to determine suitability. Orlistat may be suitable for adults with BMI 30 or above, or BMI 28 or above with weight-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. The assessment replaces the need for a GP appointment, with prescription included in the price.
Treatment Success: Diet and Lifestyle Support
All orlistat products work best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Keeping meals to approximately 15g fat helps minimise gastrointestinal side effects whilst maximising effectiveness. Most patients experience oily stools, increased bowel movement frequency, and occasional urgency - these effects indicate the medicine is working by preventing fat absorption. A daily multivitamin taken at bedtime supports nutritional needs during treatment.
Next Day Delivery and Ongoing Support
EverydayMeds delivers your chosen orlistat product with next day tracked delivery across the UK. All medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester using MHRA-regulated supply chains. Whether you choose cost-effective generic orlistat, branded Xenical, or lower-strength Alli, you receive the same professional service and ongoing support. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order as a new or returning customer.
