Ethinylestradiol/desogestrel

Ethinylestradiol/desogestrel is a combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) that is used for the prevention of pregnancy. It contains two types of hormones: an estrogen called ethinylestradiol and a progestogen called desogestrel.

Composition

Ethinylestradiol/desogestrel is a combination of 0.03 mg of ethinylestradiol and 0.15 mg of desogestrel. These two hormones work together to inhibit ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and thin the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.

Usage

This contraceptive pill is taken once daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day pill-free interval. During this interval, a withdrawal bleed (similar to a menstrual period) usually occurs. The new pack is started after the 7-day interval, regardless of whether or not the withdrawal bleed is still ongoing.

Side effects

Common side effects of ethinylestradiol/desogestrel include nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Less common but more serious side effects include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.

Contraindications

Ethinylestradiol/desogestrel is contraindicated in women with a history of thromboembolic disorders, liver disease, known or suspected breast cancer, or undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding. It should also not be used in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Certain medications can decrease the effectiveness of ethinylestradiol/desogestrel, including rifampicin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and St. John's wort.

Chemical structure of ethinylestradiol

Chemical structure of desogestrel

See also

• Oral contraceptive pill
• Ethinylestradiol
• Desogestrel