Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol

Generic Name: levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Lutera

Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol is a combined oral contraceptive containing 0.10 mg levonorgestrel and 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol per active tablet, indicated for females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy.

Overview

Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol is a combined oral contraceptive containing 0.10 mg levonorgestrel and 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol per active tablet, indicated for females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy.

Uses

Indicated for females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. Efficacy in women with BMI greater than 35 kg/m2 has not been adequately evaluated.

Dosage

One orange tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by one white inert tablet daily for 7 consecutive days. Take at same time each day.

Side Effects

Common: headache, abdominal pain, nausea, metrorrhagia, vaginal moniliasis. Serious: thromboembolic disorders, myocardial infarction, stroke, hepatic neoplasia, gallbladder disease.

Interactions

Antibiotics, anticonvulsants, St. John's Wort may reduce effectiveness. CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase plasma hormone levels. Lamotrigine efficacy may be reduced.

Warnings

Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combined oral contraceptive use. This risk increases with age, particularly in women over 35. Contraindicated in thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, cerebrovascular/coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, migraine with aura, uncontrolled hypertension, breast cancer, active liver disease.

Pregnancy

Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of birth defects following COC exposure. Should be discontinued if pregnancy confirmed. May reduce milk production in breast-feeding females.

Storage

Store at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol used for?

Indicated for females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. Efficacy in women with BMI greater than 35 kg/m2 has not been adequately evaluated.

What are the side effects of Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol?

Common: headache, abdominal pain, nausea, metrorrhagia, vaginal moniliasis. Serious: thromboembolic disorders, myocardial infarction, stroke, hepatic neoplasia, gallbladder disease.

Can I take Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol during pregnancy?

Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of birth defects following COC exposure. Should be discontinued if pregnancy confirmed. May reduce milk production in breast-feeding females.

What are the important warnings for Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol?

Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combined oral contraceptive use. This risk increases with age, particularly in women over 35. Contraindicated in thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, cerebrovascular/coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, migraine with aura, uncontrolled hypertension, breast cancer, active liver disease.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.