The primary use of Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel is for contraception (birth control). It belongs to the class of hormonal contraceptives.
Secondary uses of this medication include treating dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual periods), managing endometriosis, and treating acne.
Nausea and vomiting
Headaches
Breast tenderness
Abdominal pain and bloating
Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
Ethinyl Estradiol is a synthetic ovarian hormone. It inhibits the release of Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, which stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month.
Levonorgestrel is a progestin. It makes the mucus at the cervix thicker and hence, difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. It also keeps the womb's lining thin, preventing a fertilized egg from implanting. Together, these hormones effectively prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, inhibiting sperm movement, and making it unfavourable for a fertilized egg to grow in the uterus.
Doctor of Medicine
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel is available as an oral formulation in tablets.
This medicine is primarily intended for use in adult women of reproductive age. It is not intended for use in children or postmenopausal women.
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel is contraindicated in individuals with known or suspected pregnancy, undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding, a history of or current breast cancer, liver tumours or severe liver disease, and known thrombogenic mutations.
This combination may interact with antibiotics (such as rifampin and griseofulvin), anticonvulsants (such as barbiturates, carbamazepine and phenytoin) and HIV medicines (like ritonavir and nevirapine).
Overdosing on Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel could lead to nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. If you suspect an overdose, consult your doctor immediately.
If you miss a dose, take the missed pill as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at one time.
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve after discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
To alleviate nausea or vomiting, try taking the medicine after meals.
If you're experiencing headaches, consider taking the medication before bed.
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel may cause dizziness or fatigue. If you experience these side effects, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
This medicine is contraindicated in known or suspected pregnancy. It is not generally recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
Individuals with liver diseases, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, migraine, depression, gallbladder problems, or a family history of breast cancer should exercise caution and consult a doctor before starting the medication.
Maintain a balanced diet to manage hormonal imbalances.
Regularly monitor your blood pressure and maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent hypertension.
Frequently asked questions
No, Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel is not a steroid. It is a combination hormonal medication containing the estrogen ethinyl estradiol and the progestin levonorgestrel.
Although it is not common, some women may experience sleep disturbances or insomnia while taking Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel. If you experience these side effects and they persist, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
This medication is primarily used to prevent pregnancy. However, fertility typically returns within a few months after discontinuing the medication, although it may take longer for some women.
Yes, it is safe to take Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel daily as long as you follow your doctor's instructions and advice regarding the duration of treatment.
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel, commonly used in hormonal contraceptives, typically begins to prevent pregnancy within 7 days of consistent use. For maximum effectiveness, it's important to follow the prescribed regimen and consult your healthcare provider.
It is recommended to take the medication once daily at the same time each day, as consistency helps to maintain an even level of the medication in your body. It could be taken with or without food.
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel is a prescription medicine and is not available over the counter.
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel in other salts
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