Orlistat / Xenical: Price, Pros & Cons in the UK
A non-injectable tablet that works by blocking fat absorption rather than suppressing appetite.
Quick Facts
- Weight Loss
- Typical cost: £30–£70/mo
- 9 providers currently offer this
- Content last reviewed 13 August 2026
This page provides general information, not medical advice — whether any treatment is right for you is a decision for a UK-registered prescriber after reviewing your individual history.
What it is
Orlistat (branded Xenical) is a daily tablet taken with meals that blocks around a third of dietary fat from being absorbed. It works completely differently to GLP-1 injections — no appetite suppression, no hormone mimicry.
Pros and cons
Why it's good
- No injections at all — tablet only
- Generally the cheapest prescription weight loss option
- Long-established medicine with a well-understood side effect profile
- Can be combined with lifestyle changes as a lower-intensity starting point
Why it's not for everyone
- Average weight loss is modest compared to GLP-1 injections
- Digestive side effects (oily stools, urgency) are common, especially with high-fat meals
- Requires consistent low-fat eating to avoid uncomfortable side effects
- Not typically a first choice for people wanting substantial weight loss
Who it's best for
People who want a non-injectable option, have a smaller amount of weight to lose, or prefer to start gentler before considering GLP-1 injections.
Typical cost
Providers offering this
- Numan
- ZAVA
- Asda Online Doctor
- Boots Online Doctor
- Superdrug Online Doctor
- iQ Doctor
- Simple Online Pharmacy
- Ashcroft Pharmacy
- Chemist4U
Frequently asked questions
What is Orlistat / Xenical?
Orlistat (branded Xenical) is a daily tablet taken with meals that blocks around a third of dietary fat from being absorbed. It works completely differently to GLP-1 injections — no appetite suppression, no hormone mimicry.
How much does Orlistat / Xenical cost in the UK?
Orlistat / Xenical typically costs £30–£70/mo in the UK, though the exact price depends on dose and provider.
Who is Orlistat / Xenical best suited to?
People who want a non-injectable option, have a smaller amount of weight to lose, or prefer to start gentler before considering GLP-1 injections.
Sources
- NHS website — medicines information.
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc) — Summary of Product Characteristics for the licensed product.
- Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) — UK licensing and safety information.
Ready to compare Orlistat / Xenical?
See exactly which UK providers offer it, and at what price.
PickMyClinic is an independent comparison site, not a pharmacy or clinic. This page is not a personal recommendation and does not replace advice from a UK-registered prescriber. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.