Book on Alli Diet Pill (Low-Dose Xenical) Now Appearing on Stores

The long anticipated launch of diet pill alli (low-dose Xenical) has now been preceded by launch of the new official alli book -- called "Are You Losing It? Losing Weight Without Losing Your Mind" -- which began making a May debut on shelves of grocery stores and pharmacies all across the country.

The book is part of the premarketing educational campaign for the diet pill agreed to by Glaxo Smith Kline before the Food and Drug Administration okayed alli as the first and only FDA-blessed weight-loss product that will be available to consumers without a prescription.

The FDA was insistent that consumers not be led to view alli as a "magic pill" but be educated to the need to combine it with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise program, and the book gives practical advice on behavioral changes, provides low-fat menu ideas and offers physical activity tips.

The book retails for $5.99 and Glaxo said consumers will find it -- as long as supplies last -- in the weight loss product aisle at stores nationwide including CVS, Walgreens, Kroger, Target and Wal-Mart.

"This book provides a much needed educational tool that takes you on a thoughtful journey about simple lifestyle changes that may deliver big health benefits," says Gary Foster, Ph.D., contributing author, director for the Center for Obesity Research and Education and professor at Temple University.

Other experts contributing to the book are:

• Dr. Caroline Apovian, director of the Center for Nutrition and Weight Management at Boston Medical Center .
• Kathleen Daelemans, a professional chef who focuses on healthy eating.
• Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom, director of the Weight Management Center at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center .