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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This combination hormone medication is designed to serve as a contraceptive, effectively preventing pregnancy. It comprises two key hormones: norethindrone, a progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen. Apart from its contraceptive purpose, birth control pills offer several other benefits. They can contribute to more regular menstrual cycles, reduce blood loss and alleviate menstrual pain, decrease the likelihood of ovarian cysts, and even be effective in treating acne.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as directed by your doctor, typically once daily. Choose a time of day that is convenient for you to remember, and strive to take the pill at the same time each day.
If you are using the chewable tablet, you can either swallow it whole or chew it thoroughly before swallowing. Adhere closely to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brand.
Consistency in taking this medication exactly as prescribed is crucial. Some birth control pills have varying amounts of estrogen and progestin in each active tablet at different times in the cycle. It is vital to follow the package instructions, starting with the first tablet in the pack and taking them in the correct order. Avoid skipping doses, as missing pills, starting a new pack late, or taking the pill at a different time than usual can increase the risk of pregnancy.
In case of vomiting or diarrhea, these may interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control pills. If you experience these symptoms, consider using a backup birth control method (such as condoms or spermicide). Refer to the Patient Information Leaflet for guidance, and consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional details.
Taking this medication after your evening meal or at bedtime may help if you experience stomach upset or nausea. You may also choose an alternative time that suits you better, but it is imperative to take the medication at the same time each day, 24 hours apart. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
The pill pack consists of 21 active medication pills and may include 7 reminder pills with no medication. Take one active pill daily for 21 days consecutively. If your product has 28 tablets, take an inactive pill daily for 7 days after the last active pill unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If your product has 21 tablets, abstain from taking any tablets for 7 days unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Your period should occur during the fourth week. After taking the last inactive tablet or going 7 days without an active tablet, start a new pack the following day, regardless of whether you have your period. If you don’t get your period, consult your doctor.
For first-time users not transitioning from another form of hormonal birth control, take the first tablet in the pack on the first Sunday following the start of your menstrual period or on the first day of your period. If your period starts on a Sunday, begin taking the medication on that day. Use an additional form of non-hormonal birth control (such as condoms or spermicide) for the first 7 days of the first cycle to prevent pregnancy until the medication becomes effective. If you start on the first day of your period, no additional backup birth control is needed during the first week.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on switching from other forms of hormonal birth control to this product. If any information is unclear, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- acne
- breast pain, tenderness, or swelling
- brown, blotchy spots on exposed skin
- cold or flu symptoms
- headache
- mood swings
- nausea
- painful menstrual cramps
- vomiting
- weight change
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- abdominal or stomach pain (sudden, severe, or continuing)
- anxiety
- breast lumps
- changes in the uterine bleeding pattern at or between periods, such as:
- breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods
- complete stopping of menstrual bleeding that occurs over several months in a row
- decreased bleeding during periods
- prolonged bleeding at periods
- stopping of menstrual bleeding that only occurs sometimes
- fluid retention (e.g., swelling of ankles, legs, wrists)
- increased blood pressure
- new or worsening migraines
- severe abdominal pain or tenderness
- vaginal infection with vaginal itching or irritation, or thick, white, or curd-like discharge
- loss of vision or change in vision
- pain in chest, groin, or leg
Caution
- Prior to using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to estradiol, norethindrone, iron, estrogens (e.g., mestranol), progestins (e.g., desogestrel), or any other substances. This product might contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before using this product, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blood clots, blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, abnormal breast examinations, cancer, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, depression, diabetes, a family or personal history of angioedema (a certain swelling disorder), gallbladder problems, severe headaches/migraines, heart problems, a history of yellowing of the eyes/skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or while using hormonal birth control, kidney disease, liver disease, stroke, swelling (edema), thyroid problems, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or obesity.
- For individuals with diabetes, this medication may impact blood sugar levels. Regularly check your blood sugar as directed and share the results with your doctor. If you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination, notify your doctor promptly. Adjustments to your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet might be necessary.
- Inform your doctor if you have recently undergone surgery, are planning to have surgery, or will be immobile for an extended period (e.g., on a long plane flight). These circumstances can heighten the risk of blood clots, particularly when using hormonal birth control. Your doctor may advise temporarily discontinuing this medication or taking special precautions.
- This medication may lead to the development of blotchy, dark areas on the face and skin (melasma). Exposure to sunlight can exacerbate this effect. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and utilize sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
- If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may experience vision problems or difficulty wearing your contact lenses. In such cases, contact your eye doctor.
- It may take a longer period for you to conceive after discontinuing birth control pills. Consult your doctor for guidance in this regard.
- This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. If you have recently given birth or experienced a pregnancy loss/abortion after the first three months, discuss reliable forms of birth control with your doctor and ascertain when it is safe to commence using birth control containing estrogen, such as this medication.
- This medication can potentially reduce breast milk production. A small amount of the medication may pass into breast milk and have adverse effects on a nursing infant. Prior to breastfeeding, consult your doctor.
Form and Strength
Brevicon 21 day is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Brevicon 21 day tablet:
- 0.5 mg / 35 mcg
- 1 mg / 35 mcg
FAQ
Is it normal to not have a period on Brevicon 21 day?
It’s not uncommon to miss a period while on birth control pills. In a clinical study, about half of women using Brevicon 21 day experienced a missed period by the end of 1 year.
Does Brevicon 21 day work immediately?
Brevicon 21 day can start working immediately as long as you start taking it at the beginning of your cycle.
