This medication combines the hormones estrogen and progestin. It is a birth control pill that works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary) and pregnancy. It may also be taken to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Your doctor may choose to use this medication for other conditions. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

Directions

28-day pack: Take one tablet daily for 21 days, then one "reminder" pill daily for seven days.

See package insert for information on where in your cycle to start and what to do if you forget to take a pill.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

Precautions

This drug should not be taken by anyone who

• has or has had thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders (blood clotting problems)
• has or has had cerebrovascular disorders (e.g, stroke)
• has had a heart attack or coronary artery disease
• has liver disease
• has or has had benign or malignant liver tumors
• has, has had, or may have breast cancer
• has or may have a tumor reliant on estrogen
• has undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
• has any eye lesion resulting from vascular disease of the eye, such as partial or complete loss of vision or defect in visual field
• is or may be pregnant

Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting, usually the most common adverse reactions, occur in approximately 10% or less of women during the first cycle

Notes

Birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. For protection against these, it is advisable to use latex condoms.

Physical examinations and follow-up visits should be done yearly by your doctor.