Which Orlistat Option Should You Choose?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Facts
Both Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. Xenical is the branded version manufactured by Roche, whilst Orlistat is the generic equivalent. Clinically, they work identically - blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption to support weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Price Comparison: Generic vs Branded
The primary difference between these options is cost. Generic Orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (84 capsules), reduced to £29.69 with code EDM10. Branded Xenical costs £42.99 for the same supply, or £38.69 with EDM10 - that's a saving of £9 per month choosing generic orlistat.
For longer supplies, the savings increase: 12-week packs of generic orlistat cost £86.39 with EDM10, compared to £116.09 for branded Xenical - a £30 saving for the same clinical effect.
Do Both Pills Work the Same Way?
Yes - both orlistat and Xenical work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in the digestive system. This prevents approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed, with unabsorbed fat passing naturally through the body. The mechanism is identical regardless of whether you choose generic or branded options.
What About Alli 60mg?
Alli contains orlistat at half the prescription strength (60mg versus 120mg). Whilst it works through the same mechanism, it blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat. Alli 60mg costs £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, positioned between the prescription strengths in both price and potency.
Who Can Take These Medications?
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are prescription-only medicines suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above, or 28 kg/m² or above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Following an online clinical assessment, a UK-licensed prescriber will determine suitability based on individual health circumstances.
Making Your Choice
If cost is a priority and you're comfortable with generic medication, Orlistat 120mg offers identical clinical benefits at lower prices. Some patients prefer branded Xenical for personal preference. Both require the same commitment to a lower-fat diet and lifestyle changes to work effectively.
Order Today with 10% Discount
Start your clinical assessment today. Use code EDM10 for 10% off your first and every subsequent order. Following prescriber approval, we'll dispense your chosen treatment from our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with next-day tracked delivery across the UK.
