Orlistat vs Xenical vs Alli: Price Comparison & Decision
Generic Orlistat 120mg vs Branded Xenical 120mg
The most important fact to understand is that Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at identical doses. Both are prescription-only medicines that work by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The key difference is price: generic Orlistat costs £29.69 for a 4-week supply (with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £38.69 - saving you £9 per month.
Xenical is the original branded version manufactured by Roche, while Orlistat is the generic equivalent. Clinically, they are identical in how they work and their effectiveness. Many patients choose generic Orlistat for better value, while others prefer the branded option. Your prescriber can help you decide which is most suitable following your online clinical assessment.
Where Does Alli 60mg Fit In?
Alli contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. At £26.09 for a 4-week supply (with EDM10), it sits between the generic and branded 120mg options price-wise. Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to prescription strength, making it a lower-intensity option for some adults. However, the 120mg prescription strength (both Orlistat and Xenical) is clinically more potent.
Which Should You Choose?
For maximum effectiveness and value, generic Orlistat 120mg offers the best combination. You get the full prescription strength that blocks approximately one third of dietary fat at the lowest price. Starting from £15.20 for a 2-week supply with code EDM10, it's significantly more affordable than Xenical while delivering identical clinical results.
Choose Xenical 120mg if you prefer branded medication from Roche. The active ingredient and clinical effect are identical to generic Orlistat, but you'll pay approximately £9 more per month. Some patients prefer the reassurance of branded medication.
Consider Alli 60mg if you want to start with a lower dose. At half the prescription strength, it may be suitable for those preferring a gentler introduction, though the clinical effect is proportionally reduced.
Pricing Breakdown: All Options
Generic Orlistat 120mg pricing: 2 weeks £15.20, 4 weeks £29.69, 8 weeks £57.59, 12 weeks £86.39 (all with EDM10). Xenical 120mg pricing: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, 12 weeks £116.09 (with EDM10). Alli 60mg pricing: 4 weeks £26.09, 8 weeks £49.49, 12 weeks £116.99 (with EDM10).
Every order qualifies for 10% off with code EDM10, available to both new and returning customers. The longer treatment packs offer better value per capsule across all three options.
How to Order Online
All three options require completion of an online clinical assessment reviewed by a UK-licensed prescriber. For Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg, a prescription is mandatory. The process is straightforward: complete your health questionnaire, prescriber review, dispensing by our GPhC-registered pharmacy, and next-day delivery to your address.
Treatment works best when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each. This maximises effectiveness while minimising gastrointestinal side effects that can occur with higher fat intake.
