Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical: Your Guide
The Key Difference: Price, Not Performance
When comparing orlistat and Xenical, the most significant difference is cost. Both contain exactly the same active ingredient - orlistat 120mg - and work identically in your body. Generic orlistat offers substantial savings without compromising effectiveness. Our 4-week supply of generic orlistat costs £29.69 with EDM10, compared to £38.69 for branded Xenical - saving you £108 annually.
How Both Products Work
Whether you choose generic orlistat or Xenical, the mechanism is identical. Both block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, potentially reducing calorie intake when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Neither product affects carbohydrates or protein absorption.
Comparing Your Options
Generic orlistat 120mg represents the most cost-effective choice, with our 2-week supply starting from £15.20 with code EDM10. For those preferring branded medication, Xenical 120mg provides identical clinical benefits at £19.35 for the same supply. Both require prescription following assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers. Alli 60mg offers a lower-strength alternative at half the dose, suitable for those wanting a gentler starting point.
Prescription Process for Both Options
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription-only access through clinical assessment. Our online consultation takes minutes to complete, covering your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. UK-licensed prescribers review every application individually, issuing prescriptions where clinically appropriate. Treatment may be suitable for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Side Effects: Identical Across Both
Since both products contain identical orlistat 120mg, side effects remain the same regardless of your choice. Common gastrointestinal effects include oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and abdominal discomfort - particularly after high-fat meals. These effects demonstrate the medication working and typically reduce when keeping meal fat content low (approximately 15g per meal). Both generic orlistat and Xenical users should take multivitamin supplements at bedtime to replace fat-soluble vitamins.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat for maximum savings whilst maintaining identical clinical effectiveness. Select Xenical if you prefer branded medication with the same active ingredient. Consider Alli 60mg for a lower-strength introduction to orlistat treatment. All three options include prescription consultation in the price, GPhC-registered dispensing, and discreet next day delivery across the UK. Apply code EDM10 at checkout for 10% off every order.
