Which Prescription Weight Loss Treatment Is Right for You?
Orlistat vs Xenical: Clinically Equivalent Options
When comparing prescription weight loss treatments, orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in the gut, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The key difference lies in cost - generic orlistat offers significant savings whilst delivering the same clinical effect as branded Xenical.
At EverydayMeds, orlistat 120mg costs from £15.20 for 2 weeks (with EDM10), compared to Xenical at £19.35. For a 4-week supply, you'll pay £29.69 for orlistat versus £38.69 for Xenical - saving nearly £9 monthly. Both require prescription following clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers.
How Prescription Weight Loss Medication Works
Orlistat acts locally in your digestive system, not affecting your brain or central nervous system. When you take one 120mg capsule with each main meal, it blocks approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, potentially reducing calorie intake from dietary fat.
Treatment works best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity. Keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each helps minimise gastrointestinal side effects whilst maximising the medication's weight management support.
Who May Be Suitable for Prescription Treatment
Orlistat 120mg may be prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above, or those with a BMI of 28 kg/m² or above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Our UK-licensed prescribers assess individual suitability through a comprehensive online consultation.
Treatment isn't suitable for everyone - those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18, or have certain medical conditions shouldn't use orlistat. Your prescriber will review your medical history and current medications to determine if treatment is appropriate for you.
Considering Lower-Strength Alli 60mg
For those preferring a gentler approach, Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. At £26.09 for 4 weeks (with EDM10), it provides a lower-strength option that typically causes milder side effects whilst still supporting weight management efforts.
Simple Online Prescription Process
Getting prescription weight loss treatment through EverydayMeds is straightforward. Complete our online health questionnaire, providing details about your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and, if clinically appropriate, issues a prescription.
Your medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and dispatched with next day delivery in discreet packaging. The prescription is included in our prices - no separate GP visit required. Remember to use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.


