Microgynon - dosage, indications, side effects, use

Microgynon works primarily by preventing ovulation, which is the process of the ovaries releasing an egg. This contraceptive pill contains two types of hormones, ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel, which are synthetic versions of the naturally occurring female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. Microgynon uses these two hormones to override the menstrual cycle, thereby preventing pregnancy.

When taken correctly, the contraceptive effect of Microgynon is achieved through three mechanisms. Firstly, it prevents ovulation by tricking the body into believing that it has already occurred. This prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg for fertilization. Secondly, it thickens the mucus in the cervix, which makes it difficult for sperm to travel up into the womb and fertilize an egg even if one is released. Lastly, Microgynon alters the lining of the womb, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant and develop into a pregnancy.

It's important to note that Microgynon does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. A condom should be used for protection against these infections. Also, the effectiveness of Microgynon can be reduced if the pills are missed, vomited, or excreted due to diarrhea, or if the user takes certain other medications. Therefore, it's essential to always use the medication as directed by a healthcare professional.

Microgynon is primarily indicated for preventing pregnancies. It is an oral contraceptive that contains two types of synthetic hormones - ethinylestradiol (an estrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestogen). These hormones are similar to the natural hormones women's bodies produce.

In addition to birth control, Microgynon is also used for a few other health conditions. Let's take a look at them:

• Regulation of Menstrual Cycles: It can be prescribed to women with irregular, painful or heavy periods. It helps to maintain a regular cycle and reduce period-related discomfort.
• Treatment of Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a painful condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside it. Microgynon can help in managing pain and preventing the condition from worsening by reducing menstrual flow and suppressing ovulation.
• Management of Menopausal Symptoms: In some cases, it can be used in hormone replacement therapy to manage symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats in menopausal women.

These are the main indications for using Microgynon. However, it should only be taken under a doctor's supervision and after discussing potential risks and benefits.

While Microgynon is a commonly prescribed contraceptive pill, it's important to understand that it's not suitable for everyone. There are certain conditions and factors that can make it unsafe for a person to use this medication. These instances, referred to as contraindications, are crucial to consider before starting a Microgynon regimen.

• Firstly, Microgynon is contraindicated in women who are pregnant or believe they may be pregnant. This medication can harm a developing fetus and it's therefore imperative to confirm you are not pregnant before starting use.
• Microgynon is also contraindicated in women who have a history of venous or arterial thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis or stroke. This is because the pill can increase the risk of such blood clots.
• Women who have a history of breast cancer or other hormone-related cancers should not take Microgynon, as it can potentially contribute to the growth of these cancers.
• Individuals with certain autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, such as lupus or Crohn's disease, may also be advised against using Microgynon. The medication can exacerbate these conditions in some cases.
• Those with liver disease or those who have had jaundice while pregnant or using hormonal contraceptives in the past should not use Microgynon.

It's crucial to remember that this is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. A healthcare professional should be consulted before starting any new medication, including Microgynon, to ensure it is safe for the individual's specific circumstances.

Microgynon, like all medicines, can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. These side effects are usually mild and tend to disappear after a few months of using the pill.

The most common side effects of Microgynon include:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Mood swings
• Decreased libido
• Breast tenderness
• Weight changes

If any of the above side effects persist, or if you notice any other side effects not listed in this section, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist. It's important to note that the risk of serious side effects is extremely small.

Some women may experience spotting or light bleeding between periods in the first few months. If this continues after the first few months, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist. Some women may also experience changes in menstrual bleeding, such as lighter periods, irregular periods, or missed periods. These side effects usually improve after the first few months of using Microgynon.

More serious side effects are rare but can include:

• Severe migraines
• Chest pain or heart attack
• Stroke
• Blood clots
• Severe abdominal pain or swelling
• Jaundice

If you experience any of these serious side effects, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Remember that using Microgynon carries a slightly increased risk of breast cancer and cervical cancer. However, this risk is believed to gradually decrease once you stop using the pill, and is back to normal about 10 years after stopping.

The dosage of Microgynon largely depends on the individual's health condition, age, and response to treatment. However, the usual recommended dosage in most cases is one tablet taken orally every day. The pill should be taken approximately at the same time each day to ensure its effectiveness.

Microgynon tablets come in packs of 21 or 28. For the 21-pill pack, one pill is taken daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break. For the 28-pill pack, one pill is taken daily with no break between packs.

In the event of a missed dose, it is recommended to take the missed pill as soon as possible. If more than one dose is missed, advice from a healthcare professional should be sought.

Overdosing on Microgynon can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding. In such cases, immediate medical attention should be sought.

It is essential to remember that the dosage of Microgynon should be strictly followed as directed by the healthcare provider. Any change in dosage or discontinuation of the medication should only be done under medical supervision. Any questions related to the dosage of Microgynon should be directed to your healthcare provider.

When it comes to the use of Microgynon, it is typically taken once a day, at the same time every day. This consistency in intake helps to achieve the most effective results. The pill is usually started on the first day of your menstrual cycle for immediate protection against pregnancy. If started on any other day of the menstrual cycle, it's essential to use an additional contraceptive method for the next 7 days.

Microgynon comes in a strip of 21 pills, each marked with a day of the week. One pill is taken every day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day pill-free break. During the break, a withdrawal bleed (similar to a period) usually occurs. After the 7-day break, a new strip of 21 pills is started, even if the bleeding hasn't stopped. This cycle is then repeated.

In case of a missed pill, it should be taken as soon as remembered even if it means taking two pills in a day. If more than one pill is missed, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional for advice. Missing pills can reduce the effectiveness of Microgynon and may increase the risk of pregnancy.

It's important to note that Microgynon does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and appropriate precautions should be taken if there is a risk of exposure to such infections.

When using Microgynon, certain precautions should be taken to ensure safe and effective use. Before starting the treatment, it is essential to consult with healthcare providers about any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medications currently being taken. This is to avoid any potential adverse reactions or interactions.

Individuals with a history of blood clots, stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or any form of cancer that is sensitive to female hormones should use Microgynon with caution. The medicine may increase the risk of developing these conditions. Regular check-ups with the doctor are recommended while using this medication.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also important factors to consider. Microgynon should not be used during pregnancy unless explicitly directed by a doctor. If pregnancy occurs while taking this medicine, use should be discontinued immediately. The medicine may pass into breast milk, hence breastfeeding while using Microgynon is not recommended without medical advice.

Smoking can increase the risk of serious side effects associated with the use of hormonal contraceptives, including blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. The risk is higher in older women and heavy smokers. Therefore, smokers should be advised to quit or reduce the amount of cigarettes they consume.

It is also recommended to avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing and regular exercise is encouraged to reduce the risk of blood clot formation. It should be noted that Microgynon does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

When discussing the interactions of Microgynon, it's crucial to understand that this contraceptive pill can interact with various other medications, which may either increase or decrease its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Note that this is not a comprehensive list and other drugs may interact with Microgynon. Always consult with your healthcare provider about potential interactions with all the drugs you are taking.

• Antibiotics: Some antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of Microgynon, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy. Examples include rifampicin and rifabutin.
• Anticonvulsants: Medications used to treat epilepsy, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital, can also lower the effectiveness of Microgynon.
• Antiretroviral drugs: Some HIV medications can interact with Microgynon, reducing its contraceptive effect. These include ritonavir and efavirenz.
• St. John's Wort: This herbal supplement can reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill.

It's also important to mention that Microgynon can affect the way other medicines work. For instance, it can increase the levels of ciclosporin (used in organ transplantation) and decrease the levels of lamotrigine (used in epilepsy), potentially impacting their effectiveness.

In conclusion, it's crucial to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take. They can provide guidance on how to manage these interactions to ensure that Microgynon works effectively for you.

The price for Microgynon depends on a variety of factors, including the dosage, the form of the medication (tablet or injection), the pharmacy or drugstore where you purchase it, and your location. Generally, the cost can range between $20 to $50 for a one-month supply, but it's always best to check with your local pharmacy for the most accurate pricing.

It's crucial to note that the price may be lower if you have a prescription drug insurance plan. Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of Microgynon or offer it at a discounted rate. Additionally, some pharmacies may have a generic equivalent which could be cheaper than the branded version.

Lastly, assistance programs or coupons may be available from the manufacturer or other organizations, which can help reduce the cost of this medication.

When it comes to substitutes for Microgynon, there are various options available in the market. These alternatives also contain the same active ingredients, ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel, which are effective in preventing pregnancy.

• Rigevidon: Like Microgynon, Rigevidon is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel. It is taken once a day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break.
• Levest: Levest is another combined oral contraceptive with the same active ingredients. It is often prescribed as a cost-effective alternative to Microgynon.
• Ovranette: Ovranette also contains ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel and is used in the same manner as Microgynon. It is considered as a reliable substitute.

While these are common substitutes, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before switching to a new contraceptive method. They will consider your individual health circumstances and potential side effects before prescribing the most suitable substitute for Microgynon.