Which Should You Choose: Orlistat, Xenical or Alli?
Does Orlistat Work the Same as Xenical?
Yes, orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are clinically equivalent. Both contain exactly the same active ingredient (orlistat) at the same dose and work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The mechanism is identical - both inhibit lipase enzymes in your gut to prevent fat digestion. Generic orlistat offers the same clinical effect as branded Xenical but costs significantly less. A 4-week supply of orlistat costs £29.69 (with EDM10) compared to £38.69 for Xenical - saving you £9 per month.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Price Comparison
The cost difference between generic orlistat and branded Xenical is substantial. For orlistat 120mg: 2 weeks costs £15.20, 4 weeks £29.69, 8 weeks £57.59, and 12 weeks £86.39 (all with EDM10). Xenical 120mg costs: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, and 12 weeks £116.09 (with EDM10). Over a 12-week course, choosing generic orlistat saves you nearly £30 compared to Xenical while delivering identical results.
What About Alli 60mg?
Alli contains half the dose of orlistat (60mg) compared to prescription-strength versions. While it blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat, Alli may suit those preferring a gentler starting approach. Alli costs £26.09 for 4 weeks, £49.49 for 8 weeks, or £116.99 for 12 weeks (with EDM10). However, prescription-strength orlistat 120mg offers better value - a 4-week supply costs just £29.69, only £3.60 more than Alli but with double the active ingredient.
How All Three Products Work
Whether you choose orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, the mechanism is the same - they block lipase enzymes that break down dietary fat. Orlistat and Xenical (both 120mg) block approximately one third of dietary fat, while Alli (60mg) blocks a smaller proportion. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body. All work best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet with no more than 15g fat per meal to minimise side effects.
Which Option Should You Buy?
For most patients, generic orlistat 120mg offers the best value - identical clinical effect to Xenical at a lower price. Some prefer branded Xenical from Roche, particularly if they've used it before. Alli suits those wanting a lower-strength option. All require the same clinical assessment process through our online consultation. Our UK-licensed prescribers will determine which strength is most appropriate based on your individual circumstances.
Order Today with Next-Day Delivery
Complete our online clinical assessment to get started. Following prescriber review and approval, we'll dispense your chosen treatment from our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order. Next-day delivery available across the UK in discreet packaging. Whether you choose orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, you're getting regulated, prescription-only treatment with professional oversight.
