Which Orlistat Treatment Should You Choose?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Differences
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are clinically identical treatments containing the same active ingredient at the same dose. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The primary difference lies in cost and branding: orlistat is the generic version, whilst Xenical is the branded equivalent manufactured by Roche.
Cost Comparison: Significant Savings Available
Generic orlistat offers substantial savings compared to branded Xenical. A 4-week supply of orlistat costs £29.69 with code EDM10, versus £38.69 for Xenical - saving you £9 per month. Over a 12-week treatment period, you could save £29.70 by choosing generic orlistat (£86.39) instead of Xenical (£116.09). Both treatments require the same online clinical assessment and are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy.
Consider Alli 60mg as a Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat and may be suitable for those preferring a gentler approach to weight management. At £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat and typically produces milder gastrointestinal side effects. However, the clinical effect is correspondingly reduced compared to prescription-strength 120mg formulations.
Same Clinical Assessment Process for All Options
Whether you choose orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, all treatments require completion of our online health questionnaire. A UK-licensed prescriber will review your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals before determining treatment suitability. Prescription-strength orlistat (120mg) and Xenical are only available following prescriber approval, whilst Alli 60mg follows a pharmacy consultation process.
Treatment Effectiveness: Identical Results
Both orlistat and Xenical work by blocking approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your digestive system, reducing calorie intake from dietary fat. When used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity, both treatments can support weight management in adults with a BMI of 28 or above (with weight-related health conditions) or 30 and above.
Managing Side Effects with Lower Fat Intake
Gastrointestinal side effects such as oily stools, increased bowel movements, and anal leakage are common with both orlistat and Xenical - particularly when eating high-fat meals. These effects are actually indicators that the medication is working by preventing fat absorption. Keeping dietary fat to approximately 15g per meal significantly reduces the likelihood and severity of side effects for both treatments.
Order Your Chosen Treatment Today
Complete our online clinical assessment to determine which treatment is most suitable for your circumstances. Generic orlistat offers the most cost-effective option with identical clinical benefits to Xenical. Use code EDM10 for 10% off your order, with next day delivery available across the UK from our Leicester-based GPhC-registered pharmacy. Start your weight management journey with the treatment that best fits your needs and budget.
