Ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin

Ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin is a hormonal contraceptive combination used for the prevention of pregnancy. It consists of ethinylestradiol, an estrogen, and norelgestromin, a progestogen. This combination is formulated as a transdermal patch, which is applied to the skin.

Composition and Mechanism of Action

Ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin contraceptive patch contains two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol, a synthetic version of estrogen, and norelgestromin, a progestin. Ethinylestradiol works by inhibiting the release of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus which, in turn, prevents the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from being released from the pituitary gland. This inhibition prevents ovulation. Norelgestromin works by thickening the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and by altering the lining of the uterus, making it less suitable for implantation.

Usage

The ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin patch is applied to the skin once a week for three weeks, followed by a patch-free week. This cycle is repeated every four weeks. The patch can be applied to several areas of the body, including the buttocks, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper torso.

Benefits

The main benefit of the ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin patch is its convenience, as it only needs to be applied once a week, offering an alternative to daily oral contraceptive pills. Additionally, because the hormones are absorbed through the skin, they do not undergo first-pass metabolism in the liver, which may result in more stable blood hormone levels.

Side Effects

Common side effects of the ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin patch include skin irritation at the site of application, headache, nausea, breast tenderness, and emotional changes. Less common but more serious side effects may include blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially in women who smoke or are over 35 years old.

Contraindications

The ethinylestradiol/norelgestromin patch is contraindicated in individuals with a history of thrombosis, stroke, or heart disease, as well as those who are pregnant or have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers. It is also not recommended for smokers over the age of 35 due to an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

See Also

• Contraceptive patch
• Hormonal contraception
• Estrogen
• Progestogen