Generic vs Branded: Making Your Purchase Decision
Why Does Orlistat Cause Orange or Oily Stools?
Both generic orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg work by blocking lipase enzymes in your gut, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat must leave your body naturally, often resulting in orange, oily, or fatty stools. This side effect is actually a sign the medication is working effectively. The orange colour comes from undigested fat and bile, whilst the oily texture reflects the fat passing through unchanged.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Clinical Effectiveness
Generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at identical doses. There is no clinical difference between them - both block the same proportion of dietary fat and produce the same weight management support when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. The choice comes down to personal preference and budget considerations.
Price Comparison: Significant Savings Available
Generic orlistat offers substantial savings over branded Xenical. A 4-week supply of generic orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over a 12-week treatment period, you'll save approximately £27 by choosing generic orlistat. Both options include the prescription and are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester.
Managing Orange Stool Side Effects
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, orange or oily stools are more likely when eating high-fat meals. Keep each meal to approximately 15g fat or less to minimise these effects. The side effects typically reduce as you adapt to a lower-fat diet. Wearing dark underwear initially and keeping dietary fat low across three daily meals helps manage this temporary adjustment period.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler approach, Alli 60mg contains half the orlistat dose of prescription-strength products. At £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, Alli may cause milder side effects but also provides less fat-blocking effect. It's available without prescription assessment, making it accessible for those wanting to start with lower-strength treatment.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose generic orlistat 120mg if you want maximum savings whilst getting identical clinical effects to Xenical. Choose Xenical if you prefer branded medication and don't mind paying extra. Both require online clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers. Start your assessment today and get next day delivery across the UK with 10% off using code EDM10.
