Private Prescription vs NHS Route - Your Options
Can You Get Orlistat Over the Counter?
While orlistat 120mg requires a prescription, you can access it "over the counter" through a private prescription service without visiting your GP. EverydayMeds offers a regulated online route that bypasses NHS waiting lists and provides faster access to prescription-strength orlistat. Our UK-licensed prescribers conduct clinical assessments online, allowing you to get orlistat without the traditional GP appointment process.
Private Prescription Benefits
The private prescription route offers significant advantages over NHS prescribing. You'll avoid surgery waiting times, lengthy GP appointments, and potential prescription delays. Our online clinical assessment takes minutes to complete, and qualified prescribers typically review applications within hours rather than weeks. This streamlined process means you can start your weight management programme immediately rather than waiting for NHS availability.
Orlistat Options Available
Through private prescription, you can choose from three orlistat options. Generic orlistat 120mg offers the most cost-effective solution at £29.69 for 4 weeks with EDM10 discount. Branded Xenical 120mg provides the same clinical effect at £38.69 for 4 weeks. Alli 60mg offers a lower-strength alternative at £49.49 for 8 weeks. All products work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
How the Private Route Works
Getting orlistat through private prescription is straightforward. Complete our online health questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and determines treatment suitability. If approved, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and dispatched for next day delivery. The entire process typically takes 24-48 hours from assessment to delivery.
Clinical Assessment Requirements
Our prescribers follow the same clinical guidelines as NHS doctors when assessing orlistat suitability. You'll typically need a BMI of 30 or above, or 28+ with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. The online questionnaire captures this information along with contraindications and medication interactions. This ensures you receive the same standard of clinical care as traditional GP prescribing but with significantly faster access.
Cost Comparison and Savings
Private prescription orlistat often costs less than you might expect. Generic orlistat at £86.39 for 12 weeks with EDM10 works out at just £7.20 per week. Compare this to the time cost of multiple GP appointments, prescription collection visits, and potential work absences for NHS consultations. The convenience and speed of private prescribing often provides better overall value, especially when you factor in immediate access without waiting lists.
