Ethinylestradiol/drospirenone

Ethinylestradiol/drospirenone is a combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP), often referred to as the birth control pill, that is used to prevent pregnancy. It contains two types of hormones: ethinylestradiol, a type of estrogen, and drospirenone, a type of progestin.

Mechanism of Action

Ethinylestradiol/drospirenone works by preventing ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovaries. It also changes the lining of the uterus to prevent attachment of a fertilized egg. If a fertilized egg does not attach to the uterus, it passes out of the body.

Uses

In addition to preventing pregnancy, ethinylestradiol/drospirenone is also used to treat moderate acne for women over 14 years of age who also want to use birth control pills to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) symptoms for women who choose to use birth control pills.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ethinylestradiol/drospirenone include nausea, vomiting, headache, bloating, breast tenderness, swelling of the ankles/feet (fluid retention), or weight change. Serious side effects include lumps in the breast, mental/mood changes, severe stomach/abdominal pain, unusual changes in vaginal bleeding, and dark urine.

Precautions

Before taking ethinylestradiol/drospirenone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any estrogens (such as ethinylestradiol) or progestins (such as drospirenone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Interactions

Some products that may interact with ethinylestradiol/drospirenone include aromatase inhibitors (such as anastrozole, exemestane), ospemifene, tamoxifen, tizanidine, tranexamic acid, certain combination products used to treat chronic hepatitis C (ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir with or without dasabuvir).

See Also

• Oral contraceptive pill
• Ethinylestradiol
• Drospirenone

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