Norethindrone Acetate/ethinyl Estradiol

Generic Name: norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Larin 1/20

Norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol is a combined oral contraceptive containing 1 mg norethindrone acetate and 20 mcg ethinyl estradiol per tablet, indicated for prevention of pregnancy.

Overview

Norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol is a combined oral contraceptive containing 1 mg norethindrone acetate and 20 mcg ethinyl estradiol per tablet, indicated for prevention of pregnancy.

Uses

Indicated for prevention of pregnancy in women who elect oral contraceptives. Highly effective when used correctly with less than 1% pregnancy rate with perfect use.

Dosage

One tablet daily at same time for 21 consecutive days followed by 7-day tablet-free interval. Two regimens available: Day-1 Start (first day of menstruation) or Sunday-Start. Tablets should be taken with meal or at bedtime.

Side Effects

Common: nausea, vomiting, breakthrough bleeding, spotting, amenorrhea, breast tenderness, fluid retention, melasma, depression, headache, nervousness, vaginal candidiasis. Serious: thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, stroke, hepatic tumors.

Interactions

Rifampin, anticonvulsants (phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine), troglitazone reduce contraceptive effectiveness. Some antibiotics may affect efficacy. Atorvastatin increases hormone concentrations.

Warnings

Cigarette smoking increases risk of serious cardiovascular events from COC use, particularly in women over 35. Contraindicated in thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, cerebrovascular/coronary artery disease, breast cancer, hepatic adenomas/carcinomas, and concurrent Hepatitis C therapy with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir.

Pregnancy

Discontinue if pregnancy confirmed. No conclusive evidence of increased birth defects with inadvertent early pregnancy exposure. May reduce breast milk production.

Storage

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Norethindrone Acetate/ethinyl Estradiol used for?

Indicated for prevention of pregnancy in women who elect oral contraceptives. Highly effective when used correctly with less than 1% pregnancy rate with perfect use.

What are the side effects of Norethindrone Acetate/ethinyl Estradiol?

Common: nausea, vomiting, breakthrough bleeding, spotting, amenorrhea, breast tenderness, fluid retention, melasma, depression, headache, nervousness, vaginal candidiasis. Serious: thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, stroke, hepatic tumors.

Can I take Norethindrone Acetate/ethinyl Estradiol during pregnancy?

Discontinue if pregnancy confirmed. No conclusive evidence of increased birth defects with inadvertent early pregnancy exposure. May reduce breast milk production.

What are the important warnings for Norethindrone Acetate/ethinyl Estradiol?

Cigarette smoking increases risk of serious cardiovascular events from COC use, particularly in women over 35. Contraindicated in thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, cerebrovascular/coronary artery disease, breast cancer, hepatic adenomas/carcinomas, and concurrent Hepatitis C therapy with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir.

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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.