Evra Patch (Norelgestromin/Ethinyl Estradiol)

Evra Patch Information:

Ortho Evra Patches (generic name: Norelgestromin/Ethinyl Estradiol) are skinpatches for the prevention of pregnancy in women. Norelgestromin and Ethinyl Estradiol are female hormones that prevent ovulation. Ortho Evra Patches works in three ways: they prevent eggs from being released from the ovaries (ovulation), thickens the cervical mucus to deter sperm from entering the uterus and also thins the lining of the womb to prevent a fertilised egg from attaching. Although Ortho Evra Patches are a method of contraceptive, like all contraceptives it is not 100% safe, so it is advised that other methods of protection be used in addition for added protection, such as condoms. Ortho Evra Patches have been approved as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy. The pack contains enough patches to last 21 days, after which time a break is required for 7 days when you will menstruate.

Evra Patch Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Ortho Evra Patch including breast pain, breast tenderness, swelling, mild headache, fatigue, irritability, bloating, stomach pain, mild nausea, vomiting, weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, problems with contact lenses, loss of interest in sex, darkening of the facial skin, loss of scalp hair, increased hair growth and changes in menstrual periods. More serious side effects may include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, pain behind the eyes, problems with speech or balance, bloating, chest pain, general ill feeling, change in pattern or severity of migraines, jaundice and depression. If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Evra Patch Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Orthoevra patches to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Orthoevra patch comes in skin patch form. You should place the patch against the skin and hold in place for a few seconds to ensure that it is fully stuck. Each patch is to be worn for 7 days at a time. Do not allow more than 7 days to pass before starting the next 3-week patch cycle.

Evra Patch Precautions:

You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including a history of stroke or blood clot, circulation problems, a hormone related cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease, liver cancer, severe high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, gallbladder disease, seizures or epilepsy, severe migraines, a heart valve disorder or a history of jaundice. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Ortho Evra Patch, including antibiotics (which commonly prevents Ortho Evra Patches from working and can result in pregnancy), acetaminophen, bosentan, cyclosporine, griseofulvin, perdnisolone, Rosuvastatin, St John’s Wort, theophylline, antifungals, seizure medications and barbiturates. It is important that you inform your doctor if you become pregnant as Ortho Evra Patches may cause harm to unborn and new born babies. You should not stop taking Ortho Evra Patches without using another form of contraceptive. Ortho Evra Patches does not prevent STIs/STDs and therefore other forms of contraceptives are recommended such as condoms. It is advised that you do not smoke when taking Ortho Evra Patches or other birth control medications, as this increases the risk of stroke and heart disease/heart attack.