Which Should You Choose: Orlistat or Xenical?
Orlistat vs Xenical: The Key Differences
When deciding between orlistat and Xenical, the most important fact is that both contain identical active ingredients at the same 120mg dose. Generic orlistat and branded Xenical are clinically equivalent - they work in exactly the same way by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The primary difference lies in cost and manufacturer.
Generic orlistat 120mg is manufactured by various licensed pharmaceutical companies, whilst Xenical 120mg is the original branded version made by Roche. Both require a prescription following clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber.
Cost Comparison: Orlistat vs Xenical
The price difference between generic orlistat and branded Xenical is significant. For a 4-week supply (84 capsules), generic orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with code EDM10), whilst Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over a 12-week treatment period, choosing generic orlistat saves approximately £27 compared to Xenical.
For longer treatment periods, the savings become more substantial. A 12-week supply of orlistat costs £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10). Both options qualify for our 10% discount with code EDM10 on every order.
When to Take Orlistat or Xenical
The dosing schedule is identical for both products. Take one 120mg capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat. Each capsule should be taken immediately before, during, or up to one hour after eating. If you skip a meal or eat a meal containing no fat, you can skip that dose.
Both medications work best when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet where no more than 30% of daily calories come from fat. This helps maximise effectiveness whilst minimising gastrointestinal side effects. A daily multivitamin supplement is recommended, taken at bedtime at least 2 hours after your final orlistat dose.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
If you prefer starting with a lower dose, Alli 60mg contains half the strength of prescription orlistat. Alli works through the same mechanism but blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat. A 4-week supply (42 capsules) costs £28.99 (£26.09 with EDM10). Some patients find the lower dose causes fewer side effects whilst still supporting weight management.
Clinical Assessment and Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following online clinical assessment. Our UK-licensed prescribers review your medical history, current medications, and BMI to determine suitability. Treatment may be appropriate for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above, or 28 kg/m² or above with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
The online consultation process typically takes 24 hours. Once approved, your chosen medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and dispatched for next day delivery in discreet packaging.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat 120mg if cost is your primary consideration - it delivers identical clinical results at approximately 25% less cost than Xenical. Choose Xenical 120mg if you prefer the original branded version from Roche. Both options are equally effective when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
