Orlistat vs Xenical: The Complete Buying Guide
Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical: What's the Difference?
The most important fact: generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. Both work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption and both require a prescription following clinical assessment. The key difference is cost - generic orlistat offers significant savings without compromising effectiveness.
At EverydayMeds, a 4-week supply of generic orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10), while Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). That's a saving of £9 per month choosing generic - over £100 annually for long-term treatment.
Does Orlistat Go Out of Date? Shelf Life Explained
Yes, like all medicines, orlistat has an expiry date typically 2-3 years from manufacture. Always check the expiry date on your packaging and never use expired medication. At EverydayMeds, we supply fresh stock with maximum shelf life remaining, dispatched from our GPhC-registered pharmacy with next-day delivery across the UK.
Store orlistat capsules in their original packaging, below 25°C, and keep out of reach of children. Proper storage ensures the medication maintains its effectiveness until the expiry date.
Complete Pricing Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical vs Alli
Generic Orlistat 120mg (Prescription):
2 weeks (42 capsules): £16.89 → £15.20 with EDM10
4 weeks (84 capsules): £32.99 → £29.69 with EDM10
8 weeks (168 capsules): £63.99 → £57.59 with EDM10
12 weeks (252 capsules): £95.99 → £86.39 with EDM10
Xenical 120mg (Branded, Prescription):
2 weeks (42 capsules): £21.50 → £19.35 with EDM10
4 weeks (84 capsules): £42.99 → £38.69 with EDM10
8 weeks (168 capsules): £86.99 → £78.29 with EDM10
12 weeks (252 capsules): £128.99 → £116.09 with EDM10
Alli 60mg (Lower Strength):
4 weeks (42 capsules): £28.99 → £26.09 with EDM10
8 weeks (84 capsules): £54.99 → £49.49 with EDM10
12 weeks (252 capsules): £129.99 → £116.99 with EDM10
Which Should You Choose?
For most patients, generic orlistat 120mg offers the best value while delivering identical clinical results to Xenical. Some prefer branded Xenical for peace of mind, while others choose generic orlistat specifically for the cost savings. Alli 60mg provides a lower-strength option for those preferring to start with half the prescription dose.
All three options require the same commitment to a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and work by the same mechanism - inhibiting lipase enzymes to reduce dietary fat absorption by approximately one third.
Fast Online Prescription Process
Skip the GP waiting room with our streamlined online service. Complete a confidential health questionnaire, reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers who'll determine if orlistat is suitable for you. Subject to clinical approval, your medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your door with next-day delivery available.
Ready to start? Choose your preferred option below and use code EDM10 for 10% off your order - available for both new and returning customers.


