Indications
Brevicon 28-day works by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary during the menstrual cycle. It contains two hormones, norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol, which work together to inhibit the release of an egg.
Brevicon 28-day thickens the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the uterus, and thins the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to implantation. By combining these actions, Brevicon 28-day is highly effective at preventing pregnancy when used as directed.
Use and Dosage
Brevicon 28-day should be taken once a day at the same time each day for 28 days. The pack contains 21 active tablets and 7 inactive tablets. You should take the active tablets for 21 days, followed by the inactive tablets for 7 days.
Brevicon 28-day tablets are meant to be swallowed whole with water, not chewed. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the instructions on the medication label to ensure that it is used effectively and safely.
If you miss a dose of Brevicon 28-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 28 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 28 day (Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol):
- Abdominal or stomach pain (sudden, severe, or continuing)
- Breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods
- Breast lumps
- Change in color of, or feeling cold in, the hands and feet
- Changes in hearing
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in the uterine bleeding pattern at or between periods, such as:
- 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
- Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease; abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss)
- 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 28-day (Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Brevicon 28-day: Tablet
- 1mg/35mcg
Cautions
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of serious side effects from oral contraceptives, including blood clots, heart attacks, and stroke.
- Age: The risk of certain side effects, such as blood clots, increases with age, especially for women over 35 years old.
- Medical history: Women with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of blood clotting disorders, may not be able to take Brevicon 28-day.
- Pregnancy: Brevicon 28-day is not intended for use during pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: Brevicon 28-day is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.
- Medications: Brevicon 28-day may interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics and anticonvulsants, which can affect its effectiveness.
- Blood clots: Women taking Brevicon 28-day may be at increased risk for blood clots, especially if they have a history of blood clots in the legs, lungs, or eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I start taking Brevicon 28-day at any time?
Brevicon 28-day can be started at any time, but if you start taking it on the first day of your menstrual cycle, it will be effective immediately at preventing pregnancy. If you start taking it at any other time during your menstrual cycle, use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days.
What should I do if I experience breakthrough bleeding while taking Brevicon 28-day?
Breakthrough bleeding or spotting may occur when you first start taking Brevicon 28-day. If it persists or becomes heavy, speak with your doctor. In some cases, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different type of birth control.
Can Brevicon 28-day interact with any other medications?
Brevicon 28-day may interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and herbal supplements. Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking to ensure that there are no interactions that could affect the effectiveness of the contraceptive.
Is it safe to take Brevicon 28-day while breastfeeding?
Brevicon 28-day is not recommended while breastfeeding. Speak with your doctor regarding alternative forms of birth control that would be appropriate while breastfeeding.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17182/brevicon-28-oral/details
- https://www.drugshortagescanada.ca/drug/6176
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/brevicon
- https://www.pimsplus.org/drug-detail/BREVICON___28___DAY___(Pack)/
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/017565s084,017566s091,017743s088lbl.pdf
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