Orlistat vs Xenical: Making Your Purchase Decision
Same Active Ingredient, Different Prices
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. The key difference lies in cost - generic Orlistat offers substantial savings compared to the branded Xenical version. Both work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Price Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
Generic Orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for a 4-week supply (84 capsules), reduced to £29.69 with discount code EDM10. Branded Xenical 120mg costs £42.99 for the same 4-week supply, or £38.69 with EDM10 - that's approximately £9 more per month. Over a 12-week treatment course, choosing Orlistat instead of Xenical saves you around £30 with our EDM10 discount applied.
Clinical Effectiveness: No Difference
Both Orlistat and Xenical deliver identical clinical effects as they contain the same 120mg orlistat dose. UK-licensed prescribers consider them therapeutically equivalent - one isn't clinically superior to the other. Some patients prefer branded Xenical, whilst others choose generic Orlistat for better value. The choice often comes down to personal preference and budget considerations.
Consider Alli 60mg as a Lower-Strength Option
Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat and doesn't require a prescription. Priced at £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, it provides a gentler starting point but blocks less dietary fat than the 120mg prescription versions. Many patients use Alli initially before progressing to prescription-strength Orlistat or Xenical.
Online Prescription Process for Both Options
Our streamlined online service covers both Orlistat and Xenical prescriptions. Complete a clinical assessment questionnaire, have it reviewed by a UK-licensed prescriber, and receive your chosen treatment with next-day delivery. The prescription is included in the price - no separate GP appointment needed. Both options are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester.
Which Should You Choose?
If cost is your primary concern, generic Orlistat 120mg delivers the same clinical benefits at a significantly lower price. Choose Xenical if you prefer branded medication or have had specific success with Roche's formulation previously. Both require the same commitment to a lower-fat diet and both carry identical side effect profiles. Our prescribers can discuss the most suitable option during your online consultation.
