norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol (Rx)

Brand and Other Names:Mononessa, Ortho Cyclen-28, more...Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, Estarylla, Tri-Estarylla, Tri-Lo-Estarylla, Mili, Mono-Linyah, Tri-Linyah, Previfem, Sprintec 28, TriCyclen, Tri-Lo Sprintec, Tri-Mili, Tri-Lo-Mili, Trinessa, TriNessa Lo, TriPrevifem, TriSprintec, Femynor, TriFemynor, Tri-Lo-Marzia

Dosing & Uses

AdultPediatric

Dosage Forms & Strengths

norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol

tablet, monophasic (Estarylla, Femynor, Mili, MonoNessa, Previfem, Sprintec)

  • Days 1-21: 0.25mg/35mcg
  • Days 22-28: Inert tablets

tablet, triphasic (Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Tri-Estarylla, TriFemynor, Tri-Mili, Trinessa, Tri-Sprintec, Tri-Previfem)

  • Days 1-7: 0.18mg/35mcg
  • Days 8-14: 0.215mg/35mcg
  • Days 15-21: 0.25mg/35mcg
  • Days 22-28: Inert tablets

tablet, triphasic (Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, Tri-Lo-Estarylla, Tri-Lo-Marzia, Tri-Lo-Mili)

  • Days 1-7: 0.18mg/25mcg
  • Days 8-14: 0.215mg/25mcg
  • Days 15-21: 0.25mg/25mcg
  • Days 22-28: Inert tablets

Contraception

Sunday starter: 1 hormonally active tablet daily for 21 days, then 1 inert tablet daily for 7 days; cycle repeated; start Sunday after onset of menstruation; if menstrual period occurs on Sunday, start that very same day; take additional method of contraception until after first 7 days of consecutive administration

Day 1 starter: Take first dose on the day of the menstrual cycle and continue to take 1 tablet daily

21-tablet package: Take 1 tablet for 21 days followed by 7 days off the medication

28-tablet package: Take 1 tablet daily without interruption

Missed dose monophasic

  • One dose missed: Take dose as soon as remembered or take 2 tablets next day
  • Two consecutive doses missed: Take 2 tablets as soon as remembered or 2 tablets next two days; use additional method of contraception for 7 days after missed dose
  • Two consecutive doses missed in week three or three doses missed at any time: Use additional method of contraception for 7 days after missed dose
  • Start a new pack if two doses missed in third week or three doses missed at any time as follows
  • Sunday starter: Continue daily dose until Sunday, then discard the rest of the pack and start a new pack that same day
  • Day 1 starter: Discard current pack and start a new pack that same day

Missed dose biphasic/triphasic formulations

  • One dose missed: Take dose as soon as remembered or take 2 tablets next day
  • Two consecutive doses missed in week 1 or 2 of the pack: Take 2 tablets as soon as remembered and 2 tablets the next day; continue taking 1 tablet daily until pack is empty; use additional method of contraception for 7 days after missed dose
  • Two consecutive doses missed in week three of the pack: Use additional method of contraception for 7 days after missed dose
  • Start a new pack if two doses missed in week 3 of the pack
  • Sunday starter: Continue daily dose until Sunday, then discard the rest of the pack and start a new pack that same day
  • Day 1 starter: Discard current pack and start a new pack that same day

Dosage Modifications

Renal impairment: Use with caution; monitor blood pressure

Hepatic impairment: Do not administer

Dosing Considerations

Follow manufacturer's color-coding for sequence of administration (especially with triphasic formulations)

Safety and efficacy not established

Next:

Interactions

Interaction Checker

and norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol

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            Contraindicated (3)

            • fezolinetant

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of fezolinetant by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Contraindicated. Fezolinetant AUC and peak plasma concentration are increased if coadministered with drugs that are weak, moderate, or strong CYP1A2 inhibitors

            • ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir & dasabuvir (DSC)

              ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir & dasabuvir (DSC), ethinylestradiol. unspecified interaction mechanism. Contraindicated. Potential for increased ALT; contraceptive failure may occur when coadministered with protease inhibitors (ritonavir).

              ethinylestradiol, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir & dasabuvir (DSC). Either increases toxicity of the other by unspecified interaction mechanism. Contraindicated. ALT elevations >5 x ULN (including some >20 x ULN) observed in clinical trials when ethinyl estradiol was coadministered with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir. Discontinue ethinyl estradiol-containing medications before initiating ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, and/or dasabuvir. Restart ethinyl estradiol containing medication ~2 weeks after hepatitis C combination drug regimen completed.

            • tranexamic acid oral

              tranexamic acid oral, ethinylestradiol. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Contraindicated. Coadministration of tranexamic acid oral and combination hormonal contraceptives increases thrombotic risk.

            Serious - Use Alternative (15)

            • abametapir

              abametapir will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. For 2 weeks after abametapir application, avoid taking drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates. If not feasible, avoid use of abametapir.

            • amobarbital

              amobarbital will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            • anastrozole

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of anastrozole by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Anastrozole should not be given concurrently with any estrogens or estrogen-containing products.

            • apalutamide

              apalutamide will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of apalutamide, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, with drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates can result in lower exposure to these medications. Avoid or substitute another drug for these medications when possible. Evaluate for loss of therapeutic effect if medication must be coadministered. Adjust dose according to prescribing information if needed.

            • armodafinil

              armodafinil will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            • atazanavir

              atazanavir, ethinylestradiol. Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Significant changes (increase or decrease) can occur in estrogen plasma levels. Efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended. .

            • belzutifan

              belzutifan will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of belzutifan with hormonal contraceptives may lead to contraceptive failure or increased breakthrough bleeding. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective nonhormonal contraception. Based on animal studies, belzutifan can cause fetal harm.

            • bosentan

              bosentan will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            • brigatinib

              brigatinib will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Brigatinib induces CYP3A4 in vitro. Coadministration of hormonal contraceptives with brigatinib can result in decreased concentrations and loss of efficacy. Brigatinib can cause fetal harm. Women should use an effective nonhormonal method of contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last brigatinib dose.

            • butabarbital

              butabarbital will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            • calaspargase pegol

              calaspargase pegol, ethinylestradiol. unknown mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Due to the potential for an indirect interaction between calaspargase pegol and oral contraceptives, concomitant use of these drugs is not recommended. Use another non-oral contraceptive method for females of childbearing potential.

            • carbamazepine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of carbamazepine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

              carbamazepine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.

            • conivaptan

              conivaptan will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.

            • darunavir

              darunavir will decrease the level or effect of norgestimate by unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.

            • dexamethasone

              dexamethasone will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            Monitor Closely (134)

            • albiglutide

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of albiglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

              norgestimate decreases effects of albiglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • alosetron

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of alosetron by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • atazanavir

              atazanavir, norgestimate. affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Atazanavir may increase or decrease levels of norgestimate. Use alternatives if available.

            • alprazolam

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of alprazolam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.

            • aminocaproic acid

              ethinylestradiol, aminocaproic acid. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Concomitant use may lead to additive hypercoagulability. Estrogens increase clotting factor production and platelet aggregation; aminocaproic acid inhibits fibrinolysis and activity of plasminogen.

            • amoxicillin

              amoxicillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.

            • ampicillin

              ampicillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • artemether/lumefantrine

              artemether/lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • atogepant

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of atogepant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • atorvastatin

              atorvastatin will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • axitinib

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of axitinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • bendamustine

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of bendamustine by decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Bendamustine is metabolized to minimally active metabolites by CYP1A2. Ethinyl estradiol is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor and concurrent administration may increase bendamustine concentrations in plasma. .

            • caffeine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of caffeine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • carbamazepine

              carbamazepine will decrease the level or effect of norgestimate by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Advise patients to use alternative contraceptive method during coadministration; continue alternative contraception for 28 days after discontinuing therapy to ensure contraception reliability

            • cefaclor

              cefaclor will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefadroxil

              cefadroxil will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefazolin

              cefazolin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefdinir

              cefdinir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefepime

              cefepime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefixime

              cefixime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefotaxime

              cefotaxime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefprozil

              cefprozil will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ceftazidime

              ceftazidime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ceftibuten

              ceftibuten will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cefuroxime

              cefuroxime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cenobamate

              cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Increase dose of CYP3A4 substrate, as needed, when coadministered with cenobamate.

              cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by unspecified interaction mechanism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Advise women to use additional or alternative non-hormonal birth control when concomitantly using cenobamate with oral contraceptives.

            • cephalexin

              cephalexin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ceritinib

              ceritinib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • chloramphenicol

              chloramphenicol will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • cimetidine

              cimetidine will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ciprofloxacin

              ciprofloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • clarithromycin

              clarithromycin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.

            • clindamycin

              clindamycin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • clobazam

              clobazam will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Clobazam is a weak CYP3A4 inducer; effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives may be diminished when given concurrently with clobazam. Additional non-hormonal forms of contraception are recommended.

              clobazam will decrease the level or effect of norgestimate by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Clobazam is a weak CYP3A4 inducer; effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives may be diminished when given concurrently with clobazam. Additional non-hormonal forms of contraception are recommended.

            • clonazepam

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of clonazepam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.

            • elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF

              elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF, norgestimate. Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Increases norgestimate levels and may result in insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, acne, and venous thrombosis; decreases ethinyl estradiol levels that may result in decreased efficacy.

            • cyclosporine

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of cyclosporine by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • dabrafenib

              dabrafenib will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.

            • darunavir

              darunavir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Significant changes (increase or decrease) can occur in estrogen plasma levels. Efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            • dasatinib

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of dasatinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • deferasirox

              deferasirox will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • demeclocycline

              demeclocycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • diazepam

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of diazepam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.

            • dicloxacillin

              dicloxacillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • doxycycline

              doxycycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • elagolix

              elagolix will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Elagolix is a weak-to-moderate CYP3A4 inducer. Monitor CYP3A substrates if coadministered. Consider increasing CYP3A substrate dose if needed.

            • eltrombopag

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of eltrombopag by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF

              elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF increases levels of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Cobicistat is a CYP3A4 inhibitor; contraindicated with CYP3A4 substrates for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events.

            • encorafenib

              encorafenib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Encorafenib (a BCRP inhibitor) may increase the concentration and toxicities of BCRP substrates. Closely monitor for signs and symptoms of increased exposure and consider adjusting the dose of these substrates.

            • erythromycin base

              erythromycin base will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.

            • erythromycin ethylsuccinate

              erythromycin ethylsuccinate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.

            • erythromycin lactobionate

              erythromycin lactobionate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.

            • erythromycin stearate

              erythromycin stearate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.

            • etravirine

              etravirine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.

            • exenatide injectable solution

              ethinylestradiol, exenatide injectable solution. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. The effect of exenatide to slow gastric emptying may reduce the extent and rate of oral medications that require rapid GI absorption. Advise patients to take oral contraceptives at least 1 hr before exenatide. .

            • exenatide injectable suspension

              ethinylestradiol, exenatide injectable suspension. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. The effect of exenatide to slow gastric emptying may reduce the extent and rate of oral medications that require rapid GI absorption. Advise patients to take oral contraceptives at least 1 hr before exenatide.

            • fedratinib

              fedratinib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Adjust dose of drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates as necessary.

            • finerenone

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of finerenone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Monitor serum potassium during initiation and dosage adjustment of either finererone or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Adjust finererone dosage as needed.

            • flibanserin

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of flibanserin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Increased flibanserin adverse effects may occur if coadministered with multiple weak CYP3A4 inhibitors.

            • fluconazole

              fluconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • fluvoxamine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of fluvoxamine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • fostemsavir

              fostemsavir will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Fostemsavir inhibits BCRP transporters. If possible, avoid coadministration or modify dose of BCRP substrate coadministered with fostemsavir. Do not ethinyl estradiol dose of exceed 30 mcg/day.

            • gemifloxacin

              gemifloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • grapefruit

              grapefruit will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • green tea

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of green tea by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • hemin

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of hemin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs that increase delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase may decrease hemin effect.

            • hyaluronidase

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of hyaluronidase by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Estrogens, when given in large systemic doses, may render tissues partially resistant to the action of hyaluronidase. Patients may require larger amounts of hyaluronidase for equivalent dispersing effect.

            • iloperidone

              iloperidone increases levels of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Iloperidone is a time-dependent CYP3A inhibitor and may lead to increased plasma levels of drugs predominantly eliminated by CYP3A4.

            • insulin aspart

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • insulin degludec

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin degludec by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may impair glucose tolerance.

            • insulin degludec/insulin aspart

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin degludec/insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may impair glucose tolerance.

            • insulin detemir

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin detemir by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • insulin glargine

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin glargine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • insulin glulisine

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin glulisine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • insulin inhaled

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin inhaled by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may impair glucose tolerance.

            • insulin lispro

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin lispro by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • insulin NPH

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin NPH by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • insulin regular human

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin regular human by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • isavuconazonium sulfate

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of isavuconazonium sulfate by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • istradefylline

              istradefylline will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Istradefylline 40 mg/day increased peak levels and AUC of CYP3A4 substrates in clinical trials. This effect was not observed with istradefylline 20 mg/day. Consider dose reduction of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates.

            • itraconazole

              itraconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as itraconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.

            • ketoconazole

              ketoconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.

            • lamotrigine

              norgestimate will decrease the level or effect of lamotrigine by increasing hepatic clearance. Use Caution/Monitor. Combination oral contraceptives have been shown to significantly decrease plasma concentrations of lamotrigine, likely due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation.

              ethinylestradiol decreases levels of lamotrigine by increasing hepatic clearance. Use Caution/Monitor. Combination oral contraceptives have been shown to significantly decrease plasma concentrations of lamotrigine, likely due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation.

            • lapatinib

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of lapatinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • liraglutide

              norgestimate decreases effects of liraglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • lemborexant

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of lemborexant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Lower nightly dose of lemborexant recommended if coadministered with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. See drug monograph for specific dosage modification.

            • lenacapavir

              lenacapavir will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Lencapavir (a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) may increase CYP3A4 substrates initiated within 9 months after last SC dose of lenacapavir, which may increase potential risk of adverse reactions of CYP3A4 substrates.

            • levofloxacin

              levofloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • levoketoconazole

              levoketoconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.

            • liraglutide

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of liraglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.

            • lixisenatide (DSC)

              lixisenatide (DSC) will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. GLP1 agonists delay gastric emptying, which may affect absorption of concomitantly administered oral medications. Oral contraceptives should be taken at least 1 hr before lixisenatide administration or 11 hr after lixisenatide.

            • lomitapide

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of lomitapide by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Lomitapide dose should not exceed 30 mg/day.

            • lonapegsomatropin

              ethinylestradiol will decrease the level or effect of lonapegsomatropin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Oral estrogens may reduce serum insulin-like growth factor-1 response to lonapegsomatropin. Patients receiving oral estrogen replacement may require higher lonapegsomatropin dosages.

            • lorlatinib

              lorlatinib will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • lumefantrine

              lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • maraviroc

              norgestimate increases levels of maraviroc by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Potential for increased toxicity.

            • metformin

              norgestimate decreases effects of metformin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.

              ethinylestradiol decreases effects of metformin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • metronidazole

              metronidazole will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • mifepristone

              mifepristone decreases effects of norgestimate by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Backup contraceptive method recommended.

            • mexiletine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of mexiletine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • midazolam

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of midazolam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.

            • midazolam intranasal

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of midazolam intranasal by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of mild CYP3A4 inhibitors with midazolam intranasal may cause higher midazolam systemic exposure, which may prolong sedation.

            • mifepristone

              mifepristone decreases effects of ethinylestradiol by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Backup contraceptive method recommended.

            • minocycline

              minocycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • mitotane

              mitotane decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Mitotane is a strong inducer of cytochrome P-4503A4; monitor when coadministered with CYP3A4 substrates for possible dosage adjustments.

            • moxifloxacin

              moxifloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • nafcillin

              nafcillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • neomycin PO

              neomycin PO will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • nicardipine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of nicardipine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • nilotinib

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of nilotinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • nirmatrelvir

              nirmatrelvir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by increasing metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider using additional nonhormonal contraceptive method for remainder of cycle. Mechanism unknown, but possibly by ritonavir CYP2C9 or CYP1A2 induction.

            • nirmatrelvir/ritonavir

              nirmatrelvir/ritonavir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by increasing metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider using additional nonhormonal contraceptive method for remainder of cycle. Mechanism unknown, but possibly by ritonavir CYP2C9 or CYP1A2 induction.

            • nitrofurantoin

              nitrofurantoin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ofloxacin

              ofloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • olanzapine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of olanzapine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • oteseconazole

              oteseconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Otesezonale, a BCRP inhibitor, may increase the effects and risk of toxicities of BCRP substrates. Use lowest starting dose of BCRP substrate, or consider reducing BCRP substrate dose.

            • paromomycin

              paromomycin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • penicillin G aqueous

              penicillin G aqueous decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by increasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of oral contraceptive failure.

            • penicillin VK

              penicillin VK will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • pioglitazone

              pioglitazone decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • posaconazole

              posaconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • quinupristin/dalfopristin

              quinupristin/dalfopristin will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ramelteon

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ramelteon by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • rasagiline

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of rasagiline by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Recommended dose of rasagiline is 0.5mg daily in combination with CYP1A2 inhibitors.

            • ribociclib

              ribociclib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • romidepsin

              romidepsin decreases effects of ethinylestradiol by receptor binding competition. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • ropinirole

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ropinirole by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of ropinirole by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • rucaparib

              rucaparib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Adjust dosage of CYP3A4 substrates, if clinically indicated.

            • rufinamide

              rufinamide decreases effects of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Rufinamide is a weak inducer of the CYP 3A4 enzyme and can decrease exposure of drugs that are substrates of CYP3A4. .

            • selegiline

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of selegiline by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives inhibit the N demethylatin of selegiline.

            • selegiline transdermal

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of selegiline transdermal by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives inhibit the N demethylatin of selegiline.

            • siltuximab

              siltuximab, norgestimate. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: CYP450 activity in the liver is down regulated by infection and inflammation stimuli including cytokines (eg, IL-6); inhibition of IL-6 by siltuximab may restore CYP450 enzymatic activity; caution if coadministered with CYP substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index.

              siltuximab, ethinylestradiol. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: CYP450 activity in the liver is down regulated by infection and inflammation stimuli including cytokines (eg, IL-6); inhibition of IL-6 by siltuximab may restore CYP450 enzymatic activity; caution if coadministered with CYP substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index.

            • stiripentol

              stiripentol, ethinylestradiol. affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Stiripentol is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and inducer. Monitor CYP3A4 substrates coadministered with stiripentol for increased or decreased effects. CYP3A4 substrates may require dosage adjustment.

            • warfarin

              norgestimate increases effects of warfarin by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            Minor (31)

            • acetazolamide

              acetazolamide will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • amitriptyline

              ethinylestradiol, amitriptyline. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Estrogens and progestins may decr tricyclic antidepressant effects, while increasing TCA plasma concentration and adverse effects.

            • amoxapine

              ethinylestradiol, amoxapine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Estrogens and progestins may decr tricyclic antidepressant effects, while increasing TCA plasma concentration and adverse effects.

            • anastrozole

              anastrozole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • antipyrine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of antipyrine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • asenapine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of asenapine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • clarithromycin

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of clarithromycin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • clomipramine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of clomipramine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • cyclophosphamide

              cyclophosphamide will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • desipramine

              ethinylestradiol, desipramine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • dosulepin

              ethinylestradiol, dosulepin. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • doxepin

              ethinylestradiol, doxepin. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • duloxetine

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of duloxetine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • enasidenib

              enasidenib, ethinylestradiol. unknown mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Coadministration of enasidenib may increase or decrease the concentrations of combined hormonal contraceptives. Clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.

            • eplerenone

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of eplerenone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • felbamate

              felbamate decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by unknown mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • frovatriptan

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of frovatriptan by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • imipramine

              ethinylestradiol, imipramine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • larotrectinib

              larotrectinib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • mineral oil

              mineral oil decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • naratriptan

              ethinylestradiol increases effects of naratriptan by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. The clinical implication of these interactions is unknown.

            • nefazodone

              nefazodone will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • nortriptyline

              ethinylestradiol, nortriptyline. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • protriptyline

              ethinylestradiol, protriptyline. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • ramelteon

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ramelteon by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • rosuvastatin

              rosuvastatin increases levels of ethinylestradiol by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • ruxolitinib

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ruxolitinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • ruxolitinib topical

              ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ruxolitinib topical by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • tizanidine

              ethinylestradiol increases levels of tizanidine by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • trazodone

              ethinylestradiol, trazodone. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

            • trimipramine

              ethinylestradiol, trimipramine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.

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            Adverse Effects

            Frequency Not Defined

            Amenorrhea

            Anorexia

            Aterial thromboembolism

            Cerebral hemorrhage

            Crebral thrombosis

            Retinal thrombosis

            Breakthrough bleeding

            Change in menstrual flow

            Gallbladder disease

            Edema

            Spotting

            Weakness

            Abdominal pain

            Breast tenderness

            Cholestatic jaundice

            Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

            Depression

            Dizziness

            Galactorrhea

            Headache

            Nausea

            Nervousness

            Somnolence

            Thrombophlebitis

            Varicose vein aggravation

            Vomiting

            Weight change

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            Warnings

            Black Box Warnings

            Cigarette smoking and risk of cardiovascular disease

            • Cigarette smoking increases risk of serious cardiovascular adverse effects from use of combination hormonal contraceptives
            • Risk increases with age (>35 years) and with heavy smoking (≥15 cigarettes/day)
            • Women who use hormonal oral contraceptives are advised not to smoke

            Contraindications

            Documented hypersensitivity

            Active or history of breast cancer

            Arterial thromboembolic disease (stroke, myocardial infarction [MI]), thrombophlebitis, DVT/pulmonary embolism (PE), thrombogenic valvular disease

            Estrogen-dependent neoplasia

            Liver disease, liver tumors

            Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding

            Uncontrolled hypertension (ie, persistent BP values >160 mm Hg systolic or >100 mg Hg diastolic)

            Diabetes mellitus with vascular involvement

            Jaundice with previous oral contraceptive use

            Receiving hepatitis C drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir

            Women > 35 years who smoke

            Cerebrovascular and/or coronary artery disease, disease, headaches with focal neurological symptoms, migraine headaches with auro or migraine headaches if >35 years of age

            Cautions

            Use caution in family history of breast cancer and or DVT/PE, current or previous depression, endometriosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, bone mineral density changes, renal or hepatic impairment, bone metabolic disease, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), conditions exacerbated by fluid retention (eg, migraine, asthma, epilepsy)

            Monitor prediabetic and diabetic women on therapy; consider alternate contraceptive method for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia

            Headache: Evaluate significant change in headaches and discontinue therapy if indicated

            Women with a history of hypertension or hypertension-related diseases, or renal disease should be encouraged to use another method of contraception

            Discontinue if any of the following develop: Jaundice, visual problems (may cause contact lens intolerance), signs of venous thromboembolism, migraine with unusual severity, significant blood pressure increase, severe depression, increased risk of thromboembolic complications after surgery

            Discontinue 4 weeks before major surgery or prolonged immobilization

            Patients on warfarin or oral anticoagulants: Increase in anticoagulant dosage may be warranted

            Some studies link oral contraceptive use with increased risk of breast cancer, whereas others do not; risk depends on conditions where naturally high hormone levels persist for long periods, including early-onset menstruation (age <12 years), late-onset menopause (age >55 years), first child after age 30 years, nulliparity

            Increased risk of cervical cancer with oral contraceptive use, however, human papillomavirus (HPV) remains primary risk factor for this cancer

            Long-term (≥5years) use of oral contraceptives may be associated with increased risk

            Increased risk of liver cancer with oral contraceptive use; risk increases with duration of use

            Discontinue hormonal therapy prior to starting therapy with combination drug regimen ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir; may restart approximately 2 weeks following completion of treatment with combination drug regimen

            Chloasma associated with combination hormonal contraceptives, as well as pregnancy and sun exposure; avoid sun exposure or ultraviolet radiation during therapy

            Risk of cholestasis increased with prior history of cholestasis with prior contraceptive use or previous cholestasis of pregnancy

            Combination hormonal contraceptives may adversely affect lipid levels; consider alternative contraception for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia

            Retinal vascular thrombosis reported in patients receiving estrogens; discontinue medication pending examination if there is sudden partial or complete loss of vision, or a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine; if examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions, estrogens should be discontinued

            Breakthrough or intracyclic bleeding and spotting may occur, especially during first 3 months of therapy; missed periods may also occur occasionally; evaluate and rule out malignancy if irregular or unresolving vaginal bleeding occurs

            There are, possible risks that may be associated with use of progestins with estrogens compared to estrogen-alone regimens, including a possible increased risk of breast cancer, adverse effects on lipoprotein metabolism (e.g., lowering HDL, raising LDL), and impairment of glucose tolerance

            Risk of ovarian or endometrial cancer decreased in women using combination hormonal contraceptives

            May increase risk of gallbladder disease or may worsen gallbladder disease

            Use of combination hormonal contraceptives associated with hepatic adenomas; rupture may cause fatal intra-abdominal hemorrhage; long term use may be associated with increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma

            Estrogens may induce or exacerbate symptoms in women with hereditary angioedema

            Risk of hypertension may be increased with age, dose, and duration of use; not for use in women with hypertension oand vascular disease

            Use of combination hormonal contraceptives not recommended in women with complicated organ transplant; medical complications reported

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            Pregnancy & Lactation

            Pregnancy category: X

            Lactation: Small amounts of steroids are excreted in breast milk; estrogens may reduce quality or quantity of milk; may be prudent to use other forms of birth control until full weaning (American Academy of Pediatrics committee states that agent is compatible with nursing); not recommended

            Pregnancy Categories

            A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

            B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

            C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

            D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

            X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

            NA: Information not available.

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            Pharmacology

            Mechanism of Action

            Ethinyl estradiol: Reduces release of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) from hypothalamus; reduces release of gonadotropin from pituitary; increases synthesis of DNA, RNA, and various proteins in target tissues

            Norgestimate: Inhibits secretion of gonadotropin from pituitary; prevents follicular maturation and ovulation; stimulates growth of mammary tissues

            Absorption

            Peak plasma time: 2 hr

            Distribution

            Protein bound: >97% (ethinyl estradiol)

            Metabolism

            Metabolized in liver by CYP3A4 to estriol, estrone (ethinyl estradiol)

            Elimination

            Half-life: Ethinyl estradiol, 10-16 hr; norgestimate, 18-25 hr; norgestrel, 38-45 hr

            Excretion (ethinyl estradiol): Urine as conjugates; most estrogens are also excreted in bile and undergo enterohepatic recycling

            Excretion (norgestimate): Urine (47%) and feces (37%) as metabolites

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            Patient Handout

            A Patient Handout is not currently available for this monograph.
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            Formulary

            FormularyPatient Discounts

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            Tier Description
            1 This drug is available at the lowest co-pay. Most commonly, these are generic drugs.
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            Medscape prescription drug monographs are based on FDA-approved labeling information, unless otherwise noted, combined with additional data derived from primary medical literature.