Some important information about levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol
Navigating the world of birth control with levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol can seem daunting, but you’re not alone in this journey.
Chemist2U can be relied upon to increase your knowledge of how levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol are used for more than just pregnancy prevention – regulating menstrual cycles, easing discomfort, and even treating acne.
Together, we’ll explore the nuances of their usage, suitability, and side effects, emphasising the significance of informed decisions and consulting your doctor.
In this article
1. How do levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol work?
Levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol are birth control pills that combine two hormones to prevent pregnancy. Levonorgestrel, a progestin, and ethinylestradiol, an oestrogen, work together to stop the full development of a woman’s egg each month. This process makes it so the egg cannot be fertilised by sperm to prevent pregnancy.
But their use extends beyond contraception. These birth control pills are also used to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual blood loss and discomfort, lower the risk of ovarian cysts, and even aid in acne treatment.
However, it’s essential to understand that while they are effective in preventing pregnancy, they do not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, while highly effective, it’s important to note that no contraceptive method is absolutely foolproof.[1]
2. How do you take Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol?
For levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol to work properly, they have to be administered correctly. Here’s a guide to help you navigate their usage:
- Follow Prescription Guidelines: The way you take these medications, including the dosage and frequency, depends on the specific brand and form prescribed to you. Common forms include oral tablets, chewable tablets, and transdermal patches. Sticking to the regimen your doctor prescribed is key for optimal results.
- Consistency is Crucial: Maintaining a consistent schedule by taking your medication at the same time each day is vital for ensuring the correct amount of the drug remains in your body at all times, which is key to the effectiveness of the treatment.
- Proper Disposal: When your medication is expired or no longer needed, dispose of it responsibly. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or adhere to local waste disposal guidelines to ensure safety.[2]
3. Who can take levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol?
Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol are generally safe for many women. They’re suitable for those with controlled high blood pressure, mild high cholesterol, depression, stable heart valve disease and HIV.
They’re also generally safe for non-smokers over thirty-five, provided they have no contraindications to hormonal birth control. Similarly, teenage girls may also take these birth control pills as needed, but they’re advised to only start after their first menstrual period.
Take note that there are important exceptions to consider. If you have underlying health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or if you are overweight, speak with your doctor and discuss these factors to determine if levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol are appropriate for you.[3]
4. Side effects of levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol
Levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol, like all medications, can have side effects. Some of the potential side effects you might experience include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Abdominal cramps or bloating
- Tenderness in the breasts
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Reduced interest in sexual activity
- Changes in your menstrual cycle, like absent, missed, or irregular periods
- Feelings of anxiety
- Symptoms that could indicate depression, such as trouble sleeping, feeling weak or tired, and mood changes.[4]
If you’re concerned about any symptoms or if you experience any significant changes, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor.
5. Levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol and other medications
It’s essential to be aware that levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol can interact with other medications you might be taking. This includes not just prescription drugs but also over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and even herbal products.
Because these interactions can affect how your medications work and potentially lead to unwanted side effects, make sure to discuss them with a doctor before you start taking levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol along with any other medications.
6. Medicines you should not use with levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol
When taking levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol, it’s important to be aware of certain medications that should not be used alongside them due to the risk of serious interactions and side effects. Some of these medications include:
- Griseofulvin, an antifungal medication
- Modafinil, commonly used to treat sleep disorders
- Rifamycins, such as rifampin and rifabutin, which are antibiotics
- Ritonavir, a medication used in HIV treatment
- St. John’s wort, a herbal product often used for depression
- Medications for chronic hepatitis C, like the combination of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir[5]
7. How to order levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol through Chemist2U
At Chemist2U, we’re dedicated to making your journey into family planning and women’s health as seamless as possible, especially when it involves contraceptive pills and hormonal birth control.
Our platform allows you to effortlessly upload your prescription for various contraceptive methods, including oral contraceptives and hormonal pills such as Levlen ED, Zoely, Femme Tab ED 20 100, or even Micronelle 30 ED. Whether you need a refill of your oral contraceptive or other reproductive health medications, simply download our app or use this website to upload your eScript or paper prescription.
Our qualified pharmacists carefully prepare your order, ensuring you have access to reliable contraceptive medication and pregnancy prevention solutions. By placing your order before the cutoff time, typically 2.00 p.m. (though this may vary in some locations), you’ll receive your medications the same day.
For a supportive, convenient, and hassle-free experience managing your medications, trust Chemist2U. We will remind you when it is time to reorder your contraceptive medications, and if you have any general questions about hormonal contraception, you can ask a pharmacist.
Choose Chemist2U for easy access to essential women’s health and contraceptive medications. Order home delivery of your medications with Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1058-967/levonorgestrel-ethinyl-estradiol-oral/levonorgestrel-ethinyl-estradiol-non-cyclic-contraceptive-oral/details
[2] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1058-967/levonorgestrel-ethinyl-estradiol-oral/levonor
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levonorgestrel-and-ethinyl-estradiol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20406441?p=1
[4] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levonorgestrel-and-ethinyl-estradiol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20406441
[5] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1058-374/levonorgestrel-ethinyl-estradiol-oral/levonorgestrel-ethinyl-estradiol-13-week-contraceptive-oral/details
