Orlistat vs Xenical for Weight Loss

Orlistat and Xenical are popular medications used to aid in weight loss, particularly for individuals struggling with obesity. Both medications work by reducing the amount of fat absorbed from the diet, helping users to lose weight when combined with a low-calorie, low-fat diet and regular exercise. Xenical is actually a branded version of orlistat, which often leads to questions about their differences and effectiveness.

When comparing the effectiveness of Orlistat and Xenical as weight loss treatments, it’s important to note that both contain the same active ingredient, orlistat, and thus work similarly in the body.

• Orlistat: Clinical studies have shown that orlistat can help patients lose 5-10% of their body weight over a year when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
• Xenical: As a branded version of orlistat, Xenical has shown similar effectiveness in clinical trials. Users can expect similar weight loss outcomes, 5-10% of their body weight over a year.

The main benefit of both medications is their ability to help individuals adhere to a reduced-fat diet by discouraging high-fat food intake due to the unpleasant side effects that occur when dietary fat consumption is too high.

Orlistat and Xenical work by inhibiting the action of an enzyme called lipase, which is necessary for the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats.

• Orlistat: Orlistat binds to lipase in the digestive tract, preventing it from breaking down approximately 25-30% of the fat consumed in the diet. This unabsorbed fat is then excreted in the stool.
• Xenical: Since Xenical is simply a branded version of orlistat, it works in the same way. By blocking lipase activity, Xenical prevents the absorption of a significant portion of dietary fat, which is then passed out of the body in the stool (poo).

The cost of treatment with Orlistat and Xenical can vary based on factors such as location, insurance coverage, and whether you are purchasing the branded or generic version.

• Orlistat: As a generic medication, Orlistat is typically less expensive, costing around £50 per month. Buy Orlistat from Medicspot.
• Xenical: Being a branded version, Xenical can be more expensive, generally ranging from £60-£70 per month.

Over a year, the cost for Orlistat might be approximately £600, while Xenical could cost £720-£840.

Both medications have similar side effects due to their shared active ingredient, but the occurrence and severity can vary.

Common side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach pain. These can be reduced by sticking to a low fat diet.

• Orlistat: Typically taken three times a day with each main meal containing fat. The standard dose is 120 mg per tablet.
• Xenical: Administered in the same way as Orlistat, with three 120 mg doses taken with each main meal that contains fat.

Both Orlistat and Xenical interact similarly with foods and other medications.

• Food Interactions: High-fat meals can increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. It is recommended to follow a low-fat diet while taking these medications.
• Drug Interactions: Orlistat and Xenical can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and certain medications. A multivitamin supplement should be taken at least two hours before or after taking the medication. It’s important to discuss all medications and supplements you are taking with your healthcare provider to avoid interactions.

Both Orlistat and Xenical are widely available in the UK.

• Orlistat: Available over the counter and by prescription. The over-the-counter version is often sold under the brand name Alli.
• Xenical: Available by prescription only.

Orlistat and Xenical offer effective options for weight loss by reducing dietary fat absorption. Both medications work similarly and have comparable side effects, but Xenical tends to be more expensive due to its branding. Choosing between the two often comes down to cost, with Orlistat being cheaper as the non-branded option.

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See Terms of Service for more information.