Which Should You Choose: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Facts
When deciding between orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg, the most important fact to understand is that both contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. Orlistat is the generic version, whilst Xenical is the branded version manufactured by Roche. Clinically, they work in exactly the same way - blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption to support weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
How Well Does Orlistat Work Compared to Xenical?
Both orlistat and Xenical deliver identical clinical effects because they contain the same 120mg dose of orlistat. The medicine works locally in your digestive system, inhibiting lipase enzymes that break down dietary fat. This means approximately one third of the fat you eat passes through your body unabsorbed. The effectiveness depends on following a lower-fat diet - keeping fat intake to around 15g per meal helps maximise results and minimise side effects.
Price Comparison: Substantial Savings with Generic Orlistat
The primary difference between orlistat and Xenical is cost. Our generic orlistat 120mg starts from just £15.20 for 2 weeks (42 capsules) with discount code EDM10, compared to £19.35 for branded Xenical. For a 4-week supply, you'll pay £29.69 for orlistat versus £38.69 for Xenical - saving £9 monthly. Over 12 weeks, the savings increase to £29.70 (£86.39 for orlistat vs £116.09 for Xenical with EDM10). Both options include the prescription and next-day delivery.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription orlistat. At £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10, it offers a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment. However, the clinical effect is proportionally reduced compared to the 120mg prescription strength versions.
Online Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical are prescription-only medicines requiring clinical assessment. Our streamlined online process involves completing a health questionnaire reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers. If approved, your chosen treatment is dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your address. The prescription is included in the price, eliminating the need for separate GP appointments.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat 120mg if you want the most cost-effective option with identical clinical benefits. Select Xenical 120mg if you prefer the branded version. Both require the same commitment to a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and deliver the same fat-blocking mechanism. Complete our online assessment to access either option with fast UK delivery and our 10% discount code EDM10.


