Orlistat vs Xenical: Making Your Purchase Decision
Same Medicine, Different Price - Generic vs Branded
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut to block approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, helping reduce calorie intake when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. Clinically, there's no difference in effectiveness - the main consideration is cost.
Price Comparison: Generic Orlistat vs Xenical
Generic Orlistat offers significant savings versus branded Xenical. For a 4-week supply (84 capsules), Orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) - saving you £9 per month. For longer treatment periods, the savings are even greater: 12-week Orlistat supply costs £95.99 versus Xenical at £128.99, a £33 difference. Both require the same prescription following clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat, offering a gentler introduction to fat-blocking treatment. At £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10), Alli may be suitable if you prefer starting with lower-strength treatment. However, the clinical effect is proportionally less than 120mg prescription versions. Many patients find the 120mg strength more effective for weight management support.
Which Should You Choose?
If cost is your primary concern, generic Orlistat 120mg provides identical clinical benefits to Xenical at the lowest price. Some patients prefer Xenical due to brand familiarity, but the active ingredient and mechanism are identical. Both require prescription following online clinical assessment. Your prescriber will determine suitability based on your BMI, health history and weight management goals. Treatment works best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet with no more than 15g fat per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects.
Getting Your Prescription Online
Our online prescription service eliminates GP waiting times. Complete our clinical questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications and BMI. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and issues a prescription if clinically appropriate. Orders are dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and delivered discreetly with next-day tracked shipping. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.
