Current Orlistat comparison
Orlistat vs Xenical vs Alli: what is the difference?
Alli, Xenical and generic Orlistat refer to products containing Orlistat, but they differ in strength, access route, brand, pack and provider terms. They should not be compared using a single price or treated as a dose you can change yourself.
Short answer: Alli and Orlos are 60mg products commonly supplied through pharmacy suitability checks. Xenical and generic Orlistat are 120mg prescription-strength products. The right route depends on clinical assessment, medicines, health history and the exact product information.
Side-by-side comparison
Standard public Orlistat rows checked 13 August 2026, grouped by strength rather than brand. Pack size, pharmacy route, consultation and delivery terms can differ.
- 60mg: £15.80 to £15.80
- 120mg: £17.22 to £74.99
| Product context | Strength | Access and price basis |
|---|---|---|
| Alli | 60mg | Pharmacy suitability route may apply. See the live strength range above. |
| Orlos | 60mg | Product-specific pharmacy/provider route. See the live strength range above. |
| Generic Orlistat | 120mg | Prescription route. See the live strength range above. |
| Xenical | 120mg | Branded prescription route. See the live strength range above. |
The live strength summary above is based on provider-owned public rows. Pack size, consultation, delivery and supply status can differ, so use the comparison row and provider page together.
What stays the same and what does not
These products contain Orlistat, which reduces the absorption of some dietary fat. They are not appetite-suppressing GLP-1 medicines. The strength, product instructions, access process and your personal suitability can still be different.
Do not take two 60mg capsules to create a 120mg dose, and do not switch products without advice. Follow the instructions for the product supplied and ask a pharmacist if you are unsure.
Who decides whether it is suitable?
A pharmacist or prescriber should consider your weight-management goal, health history, other medicines, pregnancy or breastfeeding and any condition affecting absorption. BMI criteria are product and service specific; an internet table cannot decide whether you meet them.
Orlistat can interact with medicines and affect absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Tell the clinician about warfarin, ciclosporin, levothyroxine, amiodarone, HIV medicines, medicines for depression or anxiety and every supplement you take.
Side effects and practical questions
Digestive effects such as oily stools, urgency, increased bowel movements and wind are associated with Orlistat and can be more noticeable after high-fat meals. A pharmacist can explain the diet and product guidance. Do not self-prescribe laxatives, vitamins or other medicines to manage symptoms without checking that they are appropriate.
Seek urgent help for a serious allergic reaction or another symptom that feels immediately dangerous. Contact a pharmacist or prescriber if side effects are persistent, severe or worrying.
How to choose what to ask about
Where to buy safely
Use a high-street pharmacy or a registered online pharmacy that explains the suitability or prescription process. Check the pharmacy and prescriber details, the exact strength and the patient information supplied. Avoid sellers that offer prescription-strength products without assessment or hide the medicine identity.
Read the Orlistat OTC access guide and the full Orlistat guide before making a decision.
Frequently asked questions
Is generic Orlistat the same as Xenical?
They are both 120mg Orlistat products, but brand, pack, supply and provider terms can differ. Confirm the product supplied and follow its information.
Is Alli the same as 120mg Orlistat?
Both contain Orlistat, but Alli is a 60mg product and 120mg Orlistat is prescription strength. They are not interchangeable doses.
Which is cheapest?
Current ranges are shown above by strength. Check pack and service terms before comparing.
Can I switch between products?
Ask a pharmacist or prescriber. Do not change the strength or combine products yourself.