Ethinyl Estradiol + Gestodene

Ethinyl Estradiol + Gestodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill used for the prevention of pregnancy. It prevents the release of an egg from the ovary and provides contraceptive action.

This pill contains two active ingredients: Gestodene and Ethinylestradiol. Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic version of oestrogen and Gestodene is a synthetic form of progesterone. If taken according to instructions, the egg cells are prevented from maturing to the point where they can be fertilized.

• Contraception: Used as a combined oral contraceptive pill for prevention of pregnancy.

Oral Contraceptive preparations

Combined Oral Contraceptive

This pill contains two active ingredients: Gestodene and Ethinylestradiol. Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic version of oestrogen and Gestodene is a synthetic form of progesterone. If taken according to instructions, the egg cells are prevented from maturing to the point where they can be fertilized. Secondary mechanisms include changes in cervical mucus and changes in the endometrium.

Ethinyl Estradiol + Gestodene prevents ovulation by suppressing pituitary gonadotropin secretion. It also causes changes in cervical mucus and endometrium for contraceptive action.

Adult Dose:

• 1 tablet daily for 28 days (21 active + 7 placebo).
• Take at the same time every day.

Take 1 tablet at the same time every day. Follow the directions on the pack for 21 active tablets, then 7 placebo tablets. Swallow each pill whole with water if necessary.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If more than 12 hours late, effectiveness may be reduced; follow instructions.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Weight gain
• Fluid retention
• Depression, mood changes
• Breast pain and tenderness
• Rash
• Vaginal discharge

Precautions:

• Some medications may interfere with the efficacy of the tablet (antibiotics, rifampicin, medicines for seizures); use another method of contraception.
• Smoking increases risk, especially over 35 years of age.
• Inform doctor if you have liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to any components
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• History of thrombosis
• Severe liver disease

Drug Interactions:

• Rifampicin, phenytoin, primidone, barbiturates, topiramate: May decrease serum ethinylestradiol concentrations and reduce efficacy.
• Ampicillin, penicillins, tetracyclines: May reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives.

Food Interactions: May be taken with or without food. Caution with alcohol.

Use in Pregnancy: Contraindicated during pregnancy.

Use in Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding.

Pediatric Use: Not indicated before menarche.

Geriatric Use: For women aged 15-69 years (except smokers and tobacco users).

Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver disease; contraindicated in severe liver disease.

Overdose: Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, dizziness, abdominal pain, drowsiness, fatigue; withdrawal bleeding may occur in females. No specific antidote; symptomatic treatment.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Keep away from light and out of reach of children.

Ethinyl Estradiol + Gestodene