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Alesse starts at $12/mo, while Marvelon starts at $18/mo in Canada. Marvelon contains desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol, while Alesse contains levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol. Last updated: 2026-02-26.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Marvelon Alesse
Price Range $18–$32/mo $12–$28/mo
Cheapest Pharmacy Costco ($14.20/mo) Costco ($8.80/mo)
Generic Name desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol
Route Oral pill Oral pill
Category Birth Control Birth Control
ODB Coverage General Benefit General Benefit

Pharmacy Price Breakdown

Pharmacy Marvelon Alesse
Costco $14.20/mo $8.80/mo
Walmart $19.50/mo $13.20/mo
Rexall $22.30/mo $15.40/mo
Shoppers Drug Mart $24.80/mo $17.10/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, Marvelon or Alesse?
Alesse is generally cheaper, starting at $12.00/mo compared to $18.00/mo for Marvelon. The lowest price is at Costco ($8.80/mo).
What is the difference between Marvelon and Alesse?
Marvelon (desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol) and Alesse (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) are different medications in the birth control category.
Is Marvelon or Alesse covered by provincial drug plans?
Marvelon: General Benefit on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary. Alesse: General Benefit on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary.

Last updated: 2026-02-26

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