Loestrin (Norethindrone (Norethisterone)/Ethinyl Estradiol)

Loestrin Information:

Loestrin (generic name: Ethinyl Estradiol/Norethisterone) is a birth control pill for the prevention of pregnancy. Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel are female hormones that prevent ovulation. Loestrin works in three ways: it prevents 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 the birth control pill is a method of contraceptive, like all contraceptives it is not 100% safe and is noted as 99% effective, so it is advised that other methods of protection be used in addition for added protection, such as condoms. Loestrin is a 21 day pill, meaning that the first 21 days you take the pills and then this is followed by a 7 day break when you will have a menstrual period. Loestrin may be prescribed for other medical conditions as determined by your doctor.

Loestrin Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Loestrin 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.

Loestrin Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Loestrin to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Loestrin comes in tablet form. You should swallow Loestrin whole with a glass of water. Loestrin should be taken at the same time every day, and should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Loestrin should be taken daily for 21 days, followed by a 7 day break when you will have a menstrual period.

Loestrin Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Loestrin, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. If you vomit within 2 hours of taking any pill, you may not be protected and so should take another. 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, 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 Loestrin, including antibiotics which commonly prevents Loestrin from working and can result in pregnancy, acetaminophen, phenylbutazone, prednisolone, theophyllin, cyclosporine, seizure medications, barbiturates and HIV/AIDs medications. It is important that you inform your doctor if you become pregnant or breastfeeding as Loestrin may cause harm to unborn and new born babies. You should not stop taking Loestrin without using another form of contraceptive. Loestrin 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 Loestrin or other birth control medications, as this increases the risk of stroke and heart disease/heart attack.