Category:

• Hormonal

Description:

• Monophasic oral contraceptive

• Nordette: levonorgestrel 0.15mg, ethinyl estradiol 30mcg

Indications:

• Contraceptive

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy and lactation

• Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding

• Known or suspected benign or malignant liver tumors while on oral contraceptive use

• Breast carcinoma or estrogen-dependent neoplasia

• Current or history of thromboembolic disorders, cerebral vascular or cardiovascular disease.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category X

• Take as directed at intervals not exceeding 24 hours.  Efficiency is dependent upon strict compliance.

• Breakthrough bleeding (“spotting”) may occur during initiation of therapy.

• Instructions for missed doses:

  • One missed dose: Take as soon as possible or two tablets the next day and continue

  • Two missed doses: Take two tablets daily for two days, then continue normal schedule

  • Three missed doses: Discontinue therapy and begin new packet 7 days following last dose

• May cause mental depression, fluid retention and depressed folate levels

• Twenty-eight day packs contain seven days of inert ingredients to maintain regimen

• Begin therapy on the fifth day of the cycle.  Day one of cycle is the first day of menstrual bleeding.

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• Abdominal cramping, anorexia, nausea, vomiting

• Acne

• Edema, weight gain

• Unusual tiredness or weakness

• Cardiovascular disorders (hypertension)

• Thromboembolic disorders

Dosage:

Administered orally

• One tablet daily for 21 or 28 days beginning on the fifth day of the cycle