Orlistat (and Xenical) — UK price comparison

Compare Orlistat treatment services

All providers listed are GPhC-registered pharmacies or their linked online prescribing services. Prices are the pharmacy's own current service prices — where we haven't verified a price, check it on the pharmacy's site. Ordering is always subject to the pharmacy's own consultation.

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What the price covers

Online pharmacies price orlistat as a treatment service: the monthly figure usually includes the online consultation, prescriber review, an 84-capsule month of treatment, and delivery. The main price lever is brand: generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain the same active ingredient at the same dose, so the generic is the like-for-like cheaper option at every pharmacy that stocks both. As always, confirm what's included — a low headline price with a separate consultation fee can cost more overall.

Who can be prescribed orlistat

Orlistat 120mg is licensed for weight management alongside a mildly reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet, typically for adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or 28 or more with risk factors such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. The pharmacy consultation checks eligibility, other medicines, and conditions that make it unsuitable. The 60mg strength (alli) can be sold by a pharmacist without a prescription to adults with a BMI of 28 or more, after an in-person or online pharmacist consultation — a legitimate lower-cost first step for some people.

NHS availability

Unlike the newer injectable treatments, orlistat has long been available on the NHS: GPs can prescribe it where the licensed criteria are met and local guidance supports it. On the NHS you pay at most the standard prescription charge per item (£9.90 in England; free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) — substantially less than private treatment — so ask your GP first if you meet the criteria.

Side effects and practicalities

Orlistat's side effects follow from how it works: unabsorbed fat can cause oily stools, urgency, and wind, particularly after high-fat meals — which is why it's paired with a lower-fat diet. It can also reduce absorption of some vitamins and interact with certain medicines, which the consultation screens for. Report suspected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. This page compares prices only — it is not medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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