Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Orlistat 120mg vs Xenical 120mg: The Key Facts
Both Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at the same dose. Clinically, they work identically – blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. The main difference is cost: generic Orlistat offers significant savings compared to branded Xenical.
At EverydayMeds, Orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10), while Xenical 120mg costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over 12 weeks, choosing generic Orlistat saves you approximately £33 compared to Xenical.
Which Orlistat Strength Do You Need?
Orlistat is available in two strengths in the UK. Prescription-strength Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg require clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber. We also stock Alli 60mg – a lower-strength version that blocks less dietary fat but may cause milder side effects. Alli 60mg costs £28.99 for a 4-week supply (£26.09 with EDM10).
Your prescriber will recommend the most appropriate strength based on your individual circumstances, BMI, and weight management goals during your online consultation.
How Both Products Work
Whether you choose generic Orlistat or branded Xenical, the mechanism is identical. Both work in your digestive system by inhibiting lipase enzymes that break down dietary fat. This prevents approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed – the unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body.
Both products must be taken three times daily with main meals containing fat, alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Keeping meals low in fat (around 15g per meal) helps minimise gastrointestinal side effects while maximising effectiveness.
EverydayMeds Pricing Comparison
All our orlistat products qualify for 10% discount with code EDM10:
Orlistat 120mg (Generic):
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):
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
Online Prescription Process
Both Orlistat and Xenical require a prescription in the UK. Our streamlined online process removes the need for a GP appointment. Complete our medical questionnaire, and a UK-licensed prescriber will review your information. If clinically appropriate, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly with next day delivery.
The prescription is included in your order price – no additional consultation fees. Our Leicester-based pharmacy operates under full MHRA regulation, ensuring you receive genuine, licensed medication through legitimate UK supply chains.
Ready to start your weight management journey? Choose between cost-effective generic Orlistat or branded Xenical – both offer identical clinical benefits to support your goals alongside a healthy, lower-fat diet.


