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Description
Indications
This combination hormone medication is utilized for the prevention of pregnancy. It comprises two hormones: a progestin and an estrogen. Beyond its primary contraceptive function, birth control pills may contribute to making your menstrual cycles more regular, reducing blood loss and discomfort during periods, lowering the risk of ovarian cysts, and 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:
- mild nausea
- breast tenderness or swelling
- nipple discharge
- freckles or darkening of facial skin
- increased hair growth
- changes in weight or appetite
- problems with contact lenses
- vaginal itching or discharge
- changes in your menstrual periods
- decreased sex drive
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
- sudden and severe headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance
- chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder
- sudden cough
- wheezing
- rapid breathing
- coughing up blood
- pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs
- a change in the pattern or severity of migraine headaches
- swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
- a breast lump
- symptoms of depression
Caution
- Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to any estrogens (such as ethinyl estradiol, mestranol) or any progestins (such as norethindrone, desogestrel), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may also cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of blood clots, blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, abnormal breast exams, cancer, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, depression, diabetes, a family or personal history of a certain swelling disorder (angioedema), gallbladder problems, severe headaches/migraines, heart problems, a history of yellowing eyes/skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or while using hormonal birth control (such as pills, patch), kidney disease, liver disease (including tumors), obesity, stroke, swelling (edema), thyroid problems, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- 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. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
- Chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Exercise caution if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires limiting/avoiding these substances in your diet.
- Notify your doctor if you have recently had or will be having surgery or if you will be confined to a bed or chair for an extended period (such as a long plane flight). These conditions increase the risk of blood clots, especially when using hormonal birth control. You may need to temporarily stop this medication or take special precautions.
- This medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma), which may worsen with sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use 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. Contact your eye doctor if these problems occur.
- It may take a longer time to become pregnant after discontinuing birth control pills. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
- This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately. If you have just given birth or had a pregnancy loss/abortion after the first 3 months, discuss reliable forms of birth control with your doctor and determine when it is safe to start using birth control that contains estrogen.
- This medication may reduce breast milk production, and a small amount passes into breast milk, potentially having undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Levlite 21 day is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Levlite 21 day pack:
- 0.1 / 0.02 mg
FAQ
When do you get your period on Levlite 21 day?
You should have your period during the fourth week of the cycle.
Will I gain weight on Levlite 21 day?
Weight gain is a potential but rare side effect of taking Levlite 21 day.
Resources
- https://www.rexall.ca/article/drug/view/id/626#adverseeffects_title
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020683s004s006s007lbl.pdf
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levonorgestrel-and-ethinyl-estradiol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20406441
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-63796/alesse-28-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/alesse.html#side-effects
