Orlistat vs Xenical: Making Your Purchase Decision
Orlistat vs Xenical: Same Effect, Different Price
When comparing Orlistat and Xenical for weight loss, the fundamental truth is simple: both contain identical 120mg orlistat and work identically in your body. The active ingredient blocks approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, supporting weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Generic Orlistat costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) - saving you over £100 annually by choosing generic.
Is Alli Effective Compared to 120mg Options?
Alli contains 60mg orlistat - exactly half the prescription strength. Whilst clinically less potent than 120mg versions, Alli may suit those preferring a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment. At £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10), Alli sits between generic and branded pricing. However, prescription-strength 120mg Orlistat offers better value per mg of active ingredient and stronger clinical support for weight management.
Which Should You Buy: Orlistat, Xenical or Alli?
Your choice depends on personal preference and budget. Generic Orlistat 120mg offers maximum value - identical clinical effect to Xenical at 23% lower cost. Choose Xenical if you prefer branded medication and don't mind paying extra. Consider Alli 60mg if you want to start with lower strength, though prescription options provide better weight management support. All options require clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers who'll determine suitability based on your BMI and health circumstances.
Pricing Comparison Across All Strengths
For 4-week supply: Orlistat 120mg costs £29.69 (EDM10), Xenical 120mg costs £38.69 (EDM10), and Alli 60mg costs £26.09 (EDM10). However, calculating cost per mg reveals Orlistat 120mg offers best value at £0.35 per 120mg dose, compared to Xenical at £0.46 per dose and Alli at £0.87 per 60mg dose. For 12-week supply, savings increase significantly: Orlistat costs £86.39 whilst Xenical costs £116.09 - a £30 difference for identical treatment.
How All Three Options Work
Orlistat, Xenical and Alli all work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. Unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body. The 120mg prescription options (Orlistat and Xenical) provide stronger clinical effect than 60mg Alli. All work best when combined with meals containing no more than 15g fat to minimise gastrointestinal side effects. Treatment must always accompany a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity.
Order Through Our GPhC-Registered Pharmacy
EverydayMeds supplies all three options following online clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers. Complete our medical questionnaire, receive prescriber review, and get next day delivery across the UK. Our Leicester-based pharmacy operates under full GPhC registration with MHRA-regulated supply chains. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order - new and returning customers welcome.
