Marvelon - dosage, contraindications, use, action

Marvelon is an oral contraceptive that contains two types of female hormones: ethinylestradiol (an estrogen) and desogestrel (a progestin). These hormones work together to prevent ovulation, meaning an egg is not released by the ovaries during your menstrual cycle.

Moreover, Marvelon also changes the lining of the uterus (endometrium), making it less likely for an egg to attach to it. At the same time, it thickens the mucus in the cervix, which makes it harder for sperm to reach the uterus. These actions combined create a reliable barrier against pregnancy.

It's important to note that Marvelon, like other hormonal contraceptives, does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To protect against STIs, condoms should be used in addition to oral contraceptives.

Marvelon, a combined oral contraceptive pill, is primarily indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. It contains two active ingredients, desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol, which mimic the natural hormones progesterone and estrogen in the body. These hormones work in synergy to inhibit ovulation, alter the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and change the lining of the womb to discourage implantation of a fertilized egg.

Additionally, Marvelon may also be indicated for the management of certain menstrual disorders. It can regulate menstrual cycle, reduce menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding, and alleviate premenstrual symptoms. Some women may be prescribed Marvelon to manage acne, as the hormone combination can help in reducing the production of sebum, a skin oil that can clog pores and cause pimples.

It's important to note that Marvelon does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A barrier method of contraception, such as condoms, should be used in combination with Marvelon for protection against STIs.

As with all medications, the use of Marvelon should be based on a thorough evaluation of the individual's overall health status and risk factors. It should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Marvelon, a widely used contraceptive pill, has a set of specific contraindications that need to be carefully considered before starting treatment. It's essential to understand these contraindications to prevent any potential adverse effects or complications.

The primary contraindications for Marvelon are:

• A history of thrombosis, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
• Known, suspected, or a history of breast cancer or estrogen-dependent malignancies.
• Uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular disease.
• Severe diabetes with vascular complications.
• Liver disease as long as liver function values have not returned to normal.
• Known or suspected pregnancy.

Besides, it is contraindicated for women who demonstrate hypersensitivity to any of the product's components. Also, if you suffer from migraines with aura, Marvelon should not be used as it may increase the risk of stroke.

Additionally, Marvelon should not be used if you have a history of pancreatitis associated with severe hypertriglyceridemia or a history of jaundice. It's crucial to discuss your medical history and any potential risk factors with your healthcare provider before taking Marvelon.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of contraindications, and other circumstances or conditions may affect your suitability for treatment with Marvelon. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

Marvelon, like any other medication, can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The frequency of potential side effects listed below is defined using the following convention: very common (affects more than 1 user in 10); common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100); uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000); rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000); very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000).

Very common side effects of Marvelon include headaches, abdominal pain, weight gain, tenderness or pain in the breasts, and depressive moods or mood swings. These side effects often subside as your body adjusts to the new medication.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, changes in interest in sex, and skin disorders. If you've been feeling nauseous since starting Marvelon, try taking the pill with a meal. Uncommon side effects include eye discomfort when wearing contact lenses, diarrhoea, fluid retention, rash, hives, and weight loss. Rarely, some users may experience hypersensitivity reactions, blood clots, heart attacks, liver tumors, or strokes.

It's important to remember that the risk of these serious side effects is extremely low. If you experience any side effects, it's important to consult a doctor or a pharmacist. Occasionally, the symptoms of these side effects may be signs of more serious conditions.

Moreover, breast discharge or a change in vaginal secretions may occur. If you're worried about any side effects, you should discuss this with your doctor.

When it comes to the dosage of the oral contraceptive Marvelon, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider. Each Marvelon pack contains 21 tablets, and typically, the recommended dosage is one pill taken orally at the same time every day for 21 consecutive days. After the 21-day cycle, a seven-day break follows during which no pills are taken.

During the seven-day break, a withdrawal bleed usually occurs. This mimics a menstrual period but is not the same. After the seven-day break, regardless of whether the withdrawal bleeding continues or not, the next cycle of 21 days begins with a new pack of Marvelon.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of Marvelon as a contraceptive depends largely on how regularly and accurately it is taken. If a pill is missed or taken late, the contraceptive protection can decrease.

If you miss a dose:

1. If you realize within 12 hours of your usual time, take the missed pill immediately and continue the rest of the pack as usual.
2. If it's been more than 12 hours since your usual time, follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet or consult your healthcare provider.

If you take more than the recommended dosage, you may experience nausea or withdrawal bleeding. In such cases, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Remember, Marvelon does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. For comprehensive sexual health protection, use condoms in conjunction with oral contraceptives.

Marvelon is primarily used as a contraceptive method for avoiding unplanned pregnancies. It's a combined oral contraceptive pill that contains two types of female hormones, ethinylestradiol (an estrogen) and desogestrel (a progestogen). These hormones prevent ovulation, which is the process by which an egg is released from the ovaries. Marvelon thus prevents the fertilisation of eggs by the male sperm.

Besides being used as a contraceptive, Marvelon also helps in regulating menstrual cycles, reducing the intensity of menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), and decreasing the risk of ovarian cysts. Some women may use Marvelon to manage symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and acne.

It's important to note that like all contraceptive pills, Marvelon does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Using condoms alongside Marvelon can provide protection against STIs.

Marvelon should be taken as instructed by a healthcare professional. Usually, one pill is taken every day at the same time for 21 days, followed by a 7-day pill-free break. During the pill-free break, withdrawal bleeding similar to a menstrual period occurs. The next pack should be started after the 7-day break, even if bleeding is still ongoing.

Marvelon is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used by women who are pregnant, who have a history of thrombosis (blood clots), who have certain types of cancer, or who have uncontrolled high blood pressure, among other health conditions.

When using Marvelon, there are several precautions that should be taken into account to ensure its effectiveness and to minimize potential side effects. It is crucial to first discuss your medical history and current health status with your healthcare provider before starting Marvelon.

One of the primary precautions is that Marvelon should not be used if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This contraceptive pill may cause harm to the unborn baby or potentially cause birth defects. If you become pregnant while taking Marvelon, discontinue use immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.

Another important precaution is regarding smoking and the use of Marvelon. Women who smoke and use this contraceptive pill, especially those over the age of 35, may be at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular side effects such as blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. It is strongly recommended to not smoke while taking Marvelon.

Additionally, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking, as these may interact with Marvelon and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. This includes over-the-counter drugs and herbal products.

Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are also important while taking Marvelon. These check-ups can help monitor your reaction to the drug and ensure that it is not causing harmful effects.

Finally, remember that Marvelon does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is still necessary to use appropriate measures, such as condoms, to protect against STIs while using Marvelon.

It's important to be aware of the potential interactions that can occur when taking Marvelon. This contraceptive pill can interact with numerous other medicines, which could either increase the risk of side effects or make Marvelon less effective.

Medicines that can interact with Marvelon include certain antiepileptic medicines such as topiramate, primidone, phenytoin, and carbamazepine. Other potential interactions can arise with certain antibiotics like rifampicin and rifabutin, antifungal medicines like griseofulvin, and HIV medicines like ritonavir.

It's also important to note that Marvelon can interact with the herbal remedy St. John's wort. This can also lead to an increased risk of contraceptive failure or breakthrough bleeding.

The use of Marvelon may also affect the results of certain laboratory tests, including biochemical parameters of liver, thyroid, adrenal and renal function, plasma levels of (carrier) proteins, such as corticosteroid binding globulin and lipid/lipoprotein fractions, parameters of carbohydrate metabolism and parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis. Therefore, it's vital to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including those obtained without a prescription, before starting treatment with Marvelon.

Also, never start a new medication without telling your doctor or pharmacist, as this may affect how well Marvelon works or may increase the risk of side effects.

The cost of Marvelon can vary depending on a number of factors, including the country, pharmacy, and whether or not you have a prescription insurance plan. As a general guide, in the United States, the cost for a package of 21 tablets typically ranges between $30 and $60. In the UK, the price is typically slightly lower, with prices commonly ranging between £20 and £40 for a pack of 21 tablets.

It's important to note that these prices can fluctuate and may not include any discounts or insurance coverage that may be available. It's also worth noting that some pharmacies may offer a generic version of Marvelon, which can be significantly cheaper than the brand-name version.

Additionally, some online pharmacies or health services may offer Marvelon at a reduced cost or even for free, especially if you have a prescription from a healthcare provider. These services can be a cost-effective option, particularly for those without insurance coverage.

Always make sure to check the price with your local pharmacy or online service before purchasing, to ensure you're getting the best deal. And remember, the cost should never be a barrier to accessing necessary medication. If you're struggling to afford Marvelon, speak to your healthcare provider about alternative options.

When it comes to substitutes for Marvelon, there are several other oral contraceptives that can be used if Marvelon is not suitable or available. It's important to note that while these substitutes have similar contraceptive effectiveness, they may differ in terms of side effects, contraindications, and dosage.

• Microgynon: This is a combined oral contraceptive, like Marvelon, containing both estrogen and progestogen. It is used in the same way as Marvelon and has a similar side effect profile.
• Yasmin: Another combined oral contraceptive, Yasmin has a slightly different balance of hormones and may be preferred by some women due to its association with less weight gain.
• Cilest: Cilest is another alternative that may be recommended by your doctor. It has a slightly higher estrogen content compared to Marvelon, so may be more suitable for certain women.
• Loestrin: This contraceptive pill contains a lower dose of estrogen compared to Marvelon, making it a potential option for women who are sensitive to this hormone.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before switching to a different contraceptive. They can provide advice based on your individual health needs and circumstances.