Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Does Orlistat Stop Hunger? How It Actually Works
Orlistat doesn't function as an appetite suppressant or hunger reducer. Instead, it works locally in your digestive system by inhibiting lipase enzymes that break down dietary fat. This mechanism blocks approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed, with unabsorbed fat passing naturally through your body. Neither orlistat nor Xenical affect brain chemistry or hunger signals - they purely target fat absorption in the gut.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Same Medicine, Different Price
Generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose, delivering clinically equivalent results. The primary difference lies in cost: orlistat 4-week supply costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). This represents savings of approximately £9 per month when choosing generic orlistat. Both require the same clinical assessment and prescription from UK-licensed healthcare professionals.
Complete Price Comparison
Orlistat 120mg pricing: 2 weeks (42 capsules) £16.89, 4 weeks (84 capsules) £32.99, 8 weeks (168 capsules) £63.99, 12 weeks (252 capsules) £95.99. Xenical 120mg pricing: 2 weeks £21.50, 4 weeks £42.99, 8 weeks £86.99, 12 weeks £128.99. Apply code EDM10 for 10% discount on all orders. Both medications work identically - your choice depends on personal preference for branded versus generic medication.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. While clinically less potent than 120mg formulations, Alli may suit those preferring a lower-strength starting point. Pricing starts from £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10). Like prescription-strength options, Alli blocks fat absorption rather than reducing hunger or appetite.
Online Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers. Complete our online health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI information. Qualified healthcare professionals review your application and issue prescriptions where clinically appropriate. Our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy then dispenses and dispatches your medication with next day delivery across the UK.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat for maximum value without compromising clinical effectiveness. Select Xenical if you prefer branded medication from Roche. Both options support weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and require the same clinical assessment. Individual responses vary, and neither medication stops hunger - they work by reducing dietary fat absorption to support your weight management programme.
