Choose Your Orlistat Treatment Option
Orlistat vs Xenical: Clinical Equivalence
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients and deliver the same clinical effect. The primary difference lies in cost and branding. Generic orlistat provides the same weight management support as branded Xenical whilst offering significant monthly savings. Both prescription treatments work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in the gut, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed into the body.
Cost Comparison and Savings
Generic orlistat 120mg starts from £32.99 for a 4-week supply (84 capsules), reduced to £29.69 with discount code EDM10. Branded Xenical costs £42.99 monthly, or £38.69 with EDM10. This represents a saving of over £9 per month when choosing generic orlistat. For longer treatment periods, the 12-week generic supply costs £86.39 compared to Xenical's £116.09 - a £30 saving per quarter.
How Both Treatments Work
Orlistat and Xenical work identically by blocking lipase enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary fats. This prevents approximately one third of consumed fat from being digested and absorbed. Unabsorbed fat passes naturally through the digestive system. Both treatments must be used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity to support effective weight management.
Alli 60mg: Lower Strength Option
Alli contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. Whilst clinically less potent than the 120mg prescription versions, Alli may suit those preferring a lower-strength starting point. Alli 60mg costs £26.09 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, taken three times daily with main meals containing fat.
UK Prescription Process
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg require prescription following clinical assessment. Complete our online health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. UK-licensed prescribers review all information to determine treatment suitability. Subject to approval, medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly with next day tracked delivery across the UK.
Side Effects and Management
Both treatments may cause identical gastrointestinal side effects including oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and urgent bowel movements. These effects are directly linked to dietary fat intake - maintaining low-fat meals (approximately 15g fat per meal) significantly reduces side effect severity. Most patients find effects diminish as dietary habits adapt during initial treatment weeks.
