Generic Desogestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol (Desogestrel / Ethinyl estradiol)

Introduction

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol, a combination oral contraceptive pill, is primarily prescribed for the prevention of pregnancy. It functions by altering hormones to stop ovulation and change cervical mucus consistency, making conception less likely. Available as an oral pill in a dosage of 0.15mg desogestrel and 0.02mg ethinyl estradiol, it offers an effective method of birth control for women.

Quick Reference Facts

Active Ingredient

Desogestrel / Ethinyl estradiol

Form

Pill 0.15/0.02mg

Primary and Off-Label Uses

Prevention of pregnancy

What is Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol?

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is a combined oral contraceptive pill. It belongs to a class of medications known as hormonal contraceptives. This medication has been developed as a generic alternative to widely available branded versions of desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol combination pills. Generic medications contain the same active ingredients, in the same strengths, and are formulated to be bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, ensuring they work in the same way and provide the same therapeutic benefit. Generic versions of medicines containing desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are typically marketed under various brand names and are often available at a lower cost, making them a more accessible option for many individuals.

How Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol Works

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol works through a combination of mechanisms designed to prevent pregnancy. Ethinyl estradiol is a synthetic oestrogen, while desogestrel is a progestogen. Together, these hormones primarily suppress ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. By preventing the surge of luteinising hormone (LH) necessary for ovulation, the pill effectively stops an egg from being available for fertilisation. Additionally, the progestogen component thickens the cervical mucus, creating a barrier that makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach the uterus. It also thins the lining of the uterus (endometrium), making it less receptive to implantation should fertilisation occur. These combined actions make desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol a highly effective contraceptive when taken correctly.

Conditions Treated with Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol

The primary approved indication for Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is the prevention of pregnancy.

• Prevention of Pregnancy: As a combined oral contraceptive, Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is an effective method for women seeking to avoid unintended pregnancies. Its efficacy is high, typically over 99% when used perfectly, and around 91-93% in typical use, accounting for human error such as missed doses. The hormonal suppression of ovulation, combined with changes to cervical mucus and the uterine lining, provides a multi-faceted contraceptive effect.

Is Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol the Right Medication for You?

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is suitable for women of reproductive age who are seeking a reliable and reversible method of contraception. It is a good option for those who prefer a daily oral pill and have no contraindications to combined hormonal contraceptives. Patients who have previously used other combined oral contraceptives with success may find this formulation familiar.

However, this medication may not be appropriate for everyone. It is generally not recommended for women who have certain medical conditions, including a history of blood clots, specific types of cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, high blood pressure, or severe liver disorders. If you have an upcoming surgery or will be immobile for an extended period, you may need to temporarily stop taking this medication. A thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol aligns with your individual health status, medical history, and contraceptive needs.

Buying Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol from Our Online Pharmacy

For those seeking convenient and cost-effective access to Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol, our online pharmacy offers a reliable solution. We understand that obtaining regular medication can sometimes present challenges due to availability, cost, or the need for discretion.

Why Choose Our Service?

Our platform is designed to simplify your healthcare experience by providing easy access to essential medications like Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol. We aim to empower individuals to manage their health proactively by ensuring that effective birth control options are readily available, thereby reducing potential barriers to consistent use and promoting better health outcomes.

Quality & Safety Assurance

We are committed to providing high-quality medications. We facilitate access to Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol through verified international partners operating under recognised regulatory frameworks, ensuring that the products we supply meet stringent international standards for safety, efficacy, and quality.

Pricing & Access

A key advantage of our service is competitive pricing. We strive to offer Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol at prices that reflect its status as a generic medication, often significantly more affordable than branded alternatives. This allows for substantial cost savings, making consistent use of this effective contraceptive a more manageable financial commitment for many.

Discreet Delivery

We recognise the importance of privacy in healthcare. All orders are processed and dispatched with the utmost discretion. Our packaging is plain and anonymous, with no outward indication of the contents. We offer express delivery, typically within 7 days, and standard airmail within approximately 3 weeks, ensuring your medication arrives reliably and privately at your doorstep.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Dosing: The standard dosage of Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is one pill taken by mouth once daily. The pills are typically packaged in a blister pack marked with days of the week to help with correct administration. It is important to take the pill at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels and maximise contraceptive effectiveness.

• Missed Dose: If one pill is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. If this puts two pills in one day, take both. Sexually active individuals should use an additional form of contraception, such as a condom, or abstain from intercourse for the next 7 days if more than one pill is missed or if unsure. If pills are missed in the first week of the cycle, emergency contraception may be necessary if intercourse has occurred. Always refer to the patient information leaflet for detailed instructions specific to the product.

• Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose of oral contraceptives can include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, dizziness, abdominal pain, and drowsiness. In the case of a suspected overdose, it is advisable to contact a healthcare professional for guidance. While serious toxic effects from overdose are rare, prompt medical advice is recommended.

• Precautions: Alcohol consumption should be moderate when taking oral contraceptives, as excessive intake can potentially affect overall health and adherence. Operating machinery or driving is generally not affected by this medication, but individuals should be aware of any personal side effects that might impair their ability to do so. Taking the pill with food may help reduce stomach upset for some individuals.

Safety Information

⚠️ Who Should Not Take Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is contraindicated in individuals with any of the following conditions:

• Known or suspected pregnancy.
• Active arterial or venous thromboembolic disease or a history of such conditions (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, myocardial infarction).
• Known hereditary or acquired predisposition to venous or arterial thrombosis, such as activated protein C resistance, prothrombin gene mutation, antithrombin-III deficiency, protein S deficiency, protein C deficiency, or antiphospholipid antibodies.
• History of cerebrovascular accident (stroke) or transient ischaemic attack (TIA).
• Current use of Hepatitis C medicinal products containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir or dasabuvir.
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
• Known or suspected oestrogen-dependent tumours (e.g., cancer of the breast or endometrium).
• Severe liver disease or history of jaundice/pruritus of pregnancy if previously pregnant or during previous steroid treatment.
• Hypersensitivity to the active substances or to any of the excipients.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol include:

• Nausea: Often diminishes with continued use.
• Headache: Usually mild and transient.
• Breast tenderness: May occur during the initial weeks.
• Changes in mood: Irritability or mood swings.
• Weight changes: Some individuals may experience slight weight gain or loss.
• Irregular bleeding or spotting: Especially in the first few cycles.
• Decreased libido: Some users report a reduction in sex drive. These side effects are usually mild and tend to resolve on their own within a few months of consistent use.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)

Serious side effects, though rare, require immediate medical attention. These include:

• Signs of a blood clot: Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, severe headache, vision changes, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, severe abdominal pain.
• Signs of liver problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, severe stomach pain, persistent nausea or vomiting.
• Signs of an allergic reaction: Rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
• High blood pressure: Persistent headaches, blurred vision.
• Heart attack or stroke symptoms.

Drug & Food Interactions

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol can interact with various medications and substances:

• Hepatitis C Treatments: Medications such as ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir can increase the risk of liver enzyme abnormalities.
• Anticonvulsants: Phenytoin, carbamazepine, primidone, and barbiturates can reduce the contraceptive effect by increasing the metabolism of ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel.
• Certain Antibiotics: Rifampicin can significantly reduce contraceptive efficacy. Other antibiotics may have varying effects, and it is advisable to discuss with a doctor or pharmacist if starting a new antibiotic.
• Antiretrovirals: Some medications used to treat HIV/AIDS may also affect hormone levels.
• Herbal Supplements: St. John's Wort may reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
• Grapefruit Juice: While not a typical interaction concern for all oral contraceptives, large quantities of grapefruit juice can potentially affect drug metabolism for some medicines. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional regarding interactions with specific foods or supplements.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol

While primarily approved for and widely used as a contraceptive, Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol, like other combined oral contraceptives, may sometimes be used in clinical practice for certain conditions not explicitly listed on its original regulatory approval.

• Treatment of Acne: Combined oral contraceptives that contain oestrogen and progestogen can be effective in managing moderate to severe acne in women. The oestrogenic component can reduce sebum production, and the progestogenic component can counteract any androgenic effects. This use is often considered when topical treatments have been unsuccessful.
• Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): For women with PCOS who do not wish to conceive, combined oral contraceptives may be prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen excess symptoms such as hirsutism and acne, and decrease the risk of endometrial hyperplasia.

It is important to note that these uses are considered off-label because they have not undergone the formal regulatory approval process for these specific indications. Efficacy and safety for off-label uses are typically based on clinical consensus, observational studies, or limited research. Any off-label use of Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol must be prescribed and supervised by a qualified healthcare provider who can assess the individual benefits and risks.

Storage & Handling

Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol pills should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). They should be protected from light and moisture, so it is best to keep them in their original packaging and avoid storing them in bathrooms. Ensure the medication is stored securely and out of reach of children. After the expiry date indicated on the packaging, the medication should not be used. Disposal of unused or expired medication should be done in accordance with local guidelines for pharmaceutical waste to prevent environmental contamination. Check the patient information leaflet for specific storage instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Using Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol

• Can I take Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol with grapefruit juice? While grapefruit juice is known to interact with some medications by affecting liver enzyme activity, its interaction with desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol is not typically considered significant for most users. However, it is advisable to consume grapefruit juice in moderation and consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

• Is it safe to take Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol while traveling across time zones? When travelling across time zones, it is recommended to try and maintain your usual daily dosing time as closely as possible. If your destination's local time is significantly different, adjust your pill-taking time accordingly. Using a reliable alarm can help ensure you do not miss a dose, maintaining contraceptive efficacy.

• Can I take Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol if I have a history of migraines? A history of migraines, particularly those with aura, can sometimes be a contraindication or require special consideration when using combined oral contraceptives. It is essential to discuss your migraine history thoroughly with your doctor to assess the risks and benefits.

Product Information

• What do Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol pills look like? The pills are typically round, white, and film-coated. Each pill contains 0.15mg of desogestrel and 0.02mg of ethinyl estradiol. For precise identification and to confirm you have the correct medication, always refer to the packaging and imprinted markings on the pill itself.

• Are there different strengths of Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol available? While the specified dosage is 0.15mg desogestrel and 0.02mg ethinyl estradiol, other strengths and formulations of desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol combination pills may exist. It is crucial to ensure you are taking the exact strength prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Safety & Regulations

• Will Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol show up on a drug test? Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is a prescription medication and a hormonal contraceptive. It does not contain substances typically screened for in standard drug tests, which are designed to detect illicit drugs or performance-enhancing drugs. It will not affect the results of typical drug screening tests.

• Can I take Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol if I am breastfeeding? Combined oral contraceptives like Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol are generally not recommended during breastfeeding, especially in the early postpartum period. Progestogen-only pills or other non-hormonal methods are typically preferred to avoid potential effects on milk production and the infant.

• What are the rules for personal import of Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol? Regulations regarding the personal import of prescription medications vary significantly by country. It is important to be aware of and comply with your local laws and regulations concerning importing prescription drugs for personal use to avoid complications.

Scientific & Clinical Curiosity

• When was the generic version of Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol developed? The development of generic versions typically occurs after the patent expiry of the original branded medication. Specific launch dates for generic Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol products can vary globally, but they became widely available as patent protections on early formulations expired.

• How does Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol compare to newer contraceptive pills? Compared to some newer contraceptives, Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol may have a slightly higher risk of venous thromboembolism, although this risk remains low overall. Newer formulations often use different progestogens or adjust oestrogen dosages to potentially offer different side effect profiles or improved safety margins.

Glossary

Thromboembolic Disease

A medical condition involving the formation of blood clots (thrombi) in a blood vessel, which can then break off and travel through the bloodstream (embolism) to obstruct other vessels.

Hormonal Contraceptives

Medications that use hormones (like oestrogen and progestogen) to prevent pregnancy.

Bioequivalent

When a generic drug is shown to have the same active ingredient, dosage form, safety, and efficacy as the brand-name drug it is replacing.

Ovulation

The process in the female reproductive system where a mature egg is released from the ovary, typically occurring once per menstrual cycle.

Progestogen

A class of hormones, both natural and synthetic, that mimic the effects of progesterone and play a role in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All treatment decisions, including any considerations for off-label uses, must be made in consultation with and under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We operate under the assumption that all readers are responsible adults who can make informed decisions regarding their health. Our online pharmacy service facilitates access to Desogestrel and Ethinyl estradiol for individuals who may encounter limitations in availability through traditional pharmacies, face challenges with prescription insurance schemes, or are seeking cost-effective generic alternatives. It is imperative to consult your doctor before initiating, modifying, or discontinuing any medication regimen.