Indications
Brevicon 21-day is an oral contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones, norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol. It is taken for 21 days in a row as one active pill containing hormones once a day.
These hormones work in two ways. First, they prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), which is necessary for fertilization and pregnancy. Second, they thicken the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg. Overall, these actions make it more difficult for fertilization to occur and therefore prevent pregnancy.
Using Brevicon 21-day tablet does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia).
Use and Dosage
Brevicon 21-day comes in the form of tablet to take it for consconstive 21 days once daily.
To use Brevicon 21-day tablet, take one active pill (with hormones) once daily for 21 days in a row, preferably at the same time every day. After 7 days, start a new pack. Always follow the instructions on the label or as instructed by your healthcare provider. Take the pill at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness.
If you miss a dose of Brevicon 21-day, follow the instructions provided with the pack. Generally, you should take the missed tablet as soon as you remember and then take the next tablet at the usual time. If you miss two or more tablets, you may need to use an additional form of contraception (such as condoms) for a period.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Brevicon 21-day (Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol):
- Acne (usually less common after 3 months of treatment, and may improve if acne already exists)
- Bloating or fluid retention
- Breast pain, tenderness, or swelling
- Brown, blotchy spots on exposed skin
- Changes in appetite
- Discomfort wearing contact lenses
- Dizziness
- Gain or loss of body or facial hair
- Increased or decreased interest in sexual activity
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Vaginal discharge
- Vomiting
- Weight gain or loss
Serious Side Effects of Brevicon 21-day (Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol):
- Abdominal or stomach pain (sudden, severe, or continuing)
- Breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods
- Breast lumps
- Change in color or feeling cold in the hands and feet
- Changes in hearing
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in the uterine bleeding pattern at or between periods
- Changes in weight
- Complete stopping of menstrual bleeding that occurs over several months in a row
- Confusion
- Dark urine
- Decreased bleeding during periods
- Decreased interest in activities
- Diarrhea
- Excessive eating
- Fever
- Frequent urination
- General feeling of being unwell
- Headaches or migraines
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased thirst
- Infections
- Joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Low back or flank pain
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Pain and numbness
- Pain when urinating
- Pale stools
- Poor concentration
- Poor wound healing
- Prolonged bleeding at periods
- Skin rash
- Stopping of menstrual bleeding that only occurs sometimes
- Swelling of the feet, ankles, or lower leg
- Swelling, pain, or tenderness in the upper abdominal area
- Thoughts of suicide
- Unexplained weight loss
- Urinating more often than usual
- Vision changes
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes
Forms and Strength
Brevicon 21-day (Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Brevicon 21-day: Tablet
- 1mg/35mcg
- 0.5mg/35mcg
Cautions
- Smoking can increase your risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, including blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.
- Women over the age of 35 and those who smoke or have a history of blood clots, heart disease, high blood pressure, or breast cancer should not use Brevicon.
- Brevicon may interact with other medications, such as antibiotics and anticonvulsants, so inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking.
- Brevicon offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, it should be used alongside barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms or dental dams.
- Women with a history of depression may have a higher risk of experiencing mood changes while taking Brevicon.
- Brevicon can cause serious side effects, including blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of these serious side effects, which include sudden leg pain, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, and seek medical attention immediately if they occur.
- Brevicon can increase your risk of developing liver disease, especially if you have a history of liver problems or have certain conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
- Women with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely while taking Brevicon, as the medication can affect blood sugar levels.
- Brevicon may increase your risk of developing blood clots, especially if you are overweight, smoke, or have a family history of blood clots.
- If you experience symptoms such as severe headaches, unusual changes in vision, or numbness or weakness in your arms or legs while taking Brevicon, seek medical attention immediately as these can be signs of a stroke.
- Brevicon may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and irregular bleeding. If these symptoms persist or are severe, contact your healthcare provider.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the use of Brevicon during pregnancy and breastfeeding may not be recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a Brevicon 21-day pill?
The instructions for missed pills depend on how many pills you have missed and where you are in your pill pack. Generally, you should take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if that means taking two pills in one day. Use a backup form of contraception for the next seven days.
How effective is Brevicon at preventing pregnancy?
When taken correctly, Brevicon is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, take the pill at the same time every day and use backup contraception, such as a condom, if you miss a dose or experience vomiting or diarrhea.
Can I take Brevicon while breastfeeding?
Brevicon is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding and need contraception, talk with your healthcare provider about other options that may be safer.
Resources
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/brevicon#adverseeffects
- https://www.si.edu/object/nmah_730776
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/017565s084,017566s091,017743s088lbl.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601050.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17145/brevicon-21-oral/details
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