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Description
Indications
This combination hormone medication is prescribed for contraception, working through the inclusion of two hormones: a progestin and an estrogen. In addition to its contraceptive effects, birth control pills can contribute to the regularity of menstrual cycles, reduce blood loss and alleviate menstrual pain. They also lower the risk of ovarian cysts and can be effective in treating acne.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as instructed by your doctor, typically once a day. Choose a consistent time that is easy to remember, and adhere to the same schedule daily.
If you are using the chewable tablet, you can either swallow it whole or chew it thoroughly before swallowing, following the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Maintain precise adherence to your doctor’s prescription for this medication. Some birth control pill brands vary the levels of estrogen and progestin in each active tablet throughout the cycle. Follow the package instructions, commence with the first tablet in the pack, and maintain the correct order.
Avoid missing any doses, as the likelihood of pregnancy increases if pills are skipped, a new pack is started late, or the pill is taken at a different time than usual.
In the event of vomiting or diarrhea, the effectiveness of your birth control pills may be compromised. If you experience these symptoms, consider using a backup birth control method, such as condoms or spermicide.
Taking the medication after your evening meal or at bedtime might help alleviate stomach upset or nausea. Alternatively, you can choose another time of day that is more convenient for you, but ensure consistency by taking it at the same time each day, 24 hours apart. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Your pill pack consists of 21 pills with active medication and may include 7 reminder pills with no medication. Take one active pill daily for 21 consecutive days. If your product contains 28 tablets, take an inactive pill daily for 7 days after the last active pill, unless otherwise directed. For a product with 21 tablets, refrain from taking any tablets for 7 days, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Your period is expected during the fourth week. Commence a new pack the day after completing the last inactive tablet or after 7 days without an active tablet, regardless of whether you have your period. If your period is absent, consult your doctor.
For first-time users not transitioning from another form of hormonal birth control, take the initial tablet on the first Sunday following the start of your menstrual period or on the first day of your period. If your period begins on a Sunday, initiate the medication that day. During the first cycle, use an additional non-hormonal birth control method (e.g., condoms, spermicide) for the first 7 days to prevent pregnancy until the medication takes effect. If you start on the first day of your period, no backup birth control is necessary for the first week.
For guidance on switching from other forms of hormonal birth control, consult your doctor or pharmacist, or refer to the Patient Information Leaflet if any information is unclear.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- abdominal cramping or bloating
- acne (usually less common after 3 months of treatment, and may improve if acne already exists)
- back pain
- breast pain, tenderness, or swelling
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- general feeling of being unwell
- headaches
- heartburn
- nausea
- painful menstrual cramps
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vomiting
- weight gain or loss
- breast lumps
- breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods
- complete stop of menstrual bleeding for several months in a row, or stop of menstrual bleeding that only occurs sometimes
- decreased bleeding during periods
- prolonged bleeding during periods
- depression
- flu-like symptoms (sudden lack of energy, fever, cough, sore throat)
- headaches or migraines
- increased blood pressure
- unusual swelling of the extremities
- vaginal infection with vaginal itching or irritation, or thick, white, or curd-like discharge
Caution
- Prior to 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. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before starting this medication, disclose 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 (especially endometrial or breast 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 affect blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Notify your doctor promptly if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst/urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
- Chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. If you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition requiring limitation/avoidance of these substances in your diet, use caution.
- Inform your doctor if you have recently undergone or are planning to have surgery or if you will be immobile for an extended period (e.g., long plane flight). These conditions increase the risk of blood clots, especially when using hormonal birth control. You may need to discontinue this medication temporarily or take special precautions.
- This medication may lead to blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma), which may worsen with sunlight exposure. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen along with protective clothing when outdoors.
- If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may experience vision problems or difficulty wearing contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor if such issues arise.
- Conception may take longer after discontinuing birth control pills. Consult your doctor for guidance.
- Avoid using this medication during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor promptly. If you have recently given birth or experienced 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 containing estrogen, such as this medication.
- This medication may reduce breast milk production. A small amount passes into breast milk and may have adverse effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Marvelon 28 Day is available in the following forms and strengths:
- desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablet:
- 0.15 / 0.03 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Marvelon 28 Day to work?
Even though you may not feel its effects, this medication takes effect after a few days.
Do you ovulate on Marvelon 28 Day?
Marvelon 28 Day works by preventing ovulation and causing changes in the mucus of the cervix that make it difficult for sperm to penetrate and for an egg to implant.
Resources
- https://www.groupeproxim.ca/en/article/linessa#:~:text=This%20medication%20is%20a%20hormone,effect%20after%20a%20few%20days
- https://medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/marvelon
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/desogestrel-and-ethinyl-estradiol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20061362
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-19994/desogestrel-ethinyl-estradiol-oral/details
