Orlistat vs Xenical: Making Your Purchase Decision
Orlistat vs Xenical: What's the Real Difference?
When comparing orlistat and Xenical for weight management, the key difference is cost, not clinical effect. Both products contain identical 120mg orlistat as the active ingredient and work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption in your gut. Generic orlistat offers the same mechanism of action as branded Xenical but at a significantly lower price point, making it the cheapest option for most patients.
Price Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical UK
The cost savings with generic orlistat are substantial. For a 4-week supply, orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). This represents a monthly saving of around £9, or over £100 annually. For longer treatment courses, the savings increase further - a 12-week supply of orlistat costs £95.99 versus £128.99 for Xenical. Both options include the prescription following clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
Which Should You Choose: Generic or Branded?
Clinically, orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are equivalent. Some patients prefer the branded option, whilst others choose generic orlistat for better value. Both work identically alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and require the same three-times-daily dosing with main meals containing fat. The decision often comes down to personal preference and budget considerations. Remember, both formulations may help reduce dietary fat absorption when used as part of a structured weight management programme.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat, offering a lower-strength starting point for some patients. At £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10), Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to the 120mg options. This can mean milder side effects but potentially less support for weight management. Your prescriber can advise whether the 60mg or 120mg strength is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
How to Order the Cheapest Orlistat Online
Getting orlistat at the best price through EverydayMeds is straightforward. Complete our online health questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. Our UK-licensed prescribers will review your information and issue a prescription where clinically appropriate. We'll then dispense and dispatch your chosen treatment from our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester with next day delivery included. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, whether you choose generic orlistat, branded Xenical, or Alli.
Important Treatment Considerations
Whichever option you choose, orlistat works best when combined with a lower-fat diet containing no more than 30% of calories from fat. Higher fat meals significantly increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects like oily stools and urgent bowel movements. Taking a multivitamin supplement at bedtime is recommended as orlistat may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Most patients find side effects reduce as they adapt their diet to lower fat content.
