FEMILON TABLET

Uses and Benefits of FEMILON TABLET (Desogestrel 0.15mg + Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg)

This medicine is mainly used for preventing pregnancy in women who choose to use hormonal contraception.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Prevention of pregnancy (oral contraceptive)
• Sometimes prescribed to help regulate irregular menstrual cycles
• May be used to reduce heavy or painful periods, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (stops ovulation)
• Thickens the mucus at the entrance of the womb, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg
• Thins the lining of the womb, making it less suitable for implantation

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• It is not an emergency contraceptive (not to be used as a morning-after pill)
• It is not used to treat infections or hormonal cancers
• It should not be used by men or children

Side Effects of FEMILON TABLET (Desogestrel 0.15mg + Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg)

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Headache
• Breast tenderness
• Weight changes
• Mood changes
• Spotting or irregular bleeding, especially in the first few months

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Reduced sex drive
• Acne or skin changes
• Fluid retention/bloating
• Vaginal discharge changes

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe leg pain or swelling (possible blood clot)
• Sudden chest pain or breathlessness
• Sudden severe headache, vision loss, or slurred speech
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Severe stomach pain
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips, or difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use FEMILON TABLET (Desogestrel 0.15mg + Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually one tablet daily at the same time each day
• Swallow with water, with or without food
• Follow the pack instructions regarding the order of tablets and any pill-free/inactive-pill days
• Start the first pack as directed by your doctor, usually on a specific day of your menstrual cycle

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed pill as soon as you remember
• If it has been many hours since your usual time, check the pack instructions or ask your doctor/pharmacist about whether extra contraceptive precautions are needed
• Do not take two pills together unless advised
• If you miss multiple pills, contact your doctor for guidance on protection against pregnancy

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Check the expiry date before use and discard expired strips safely

Safety Information and Precautions for FEMILON TABLET (Desogestrel 0.15mg + Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg)

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are or may be pregnant
• Have a history of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) or stroke
• Have certain heart conditions or uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have or had certain hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast cancer
• Have severe liver disease or liver tumours
• Have migraine with aura
• Are a smoker over 35 years of age

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are breastfeeding
• Have diabetes, high cholesterol, or obesity
• Have a family history of blood clots
• Are due for surgery or will be immobile for a long period
• Have gallbladder disease or depression

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Anti-epileptic medicines
• St. John's Wort (herbal supplement)
• HIV medicines
• Other medicines that affect liver enzymes

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can this pill be used as emergency contraception?

No, this is a regular contraceptive pill and not meant for use as an emergency contraceptive.

Will this pill protect me from STIs?

No, it only prevents pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Can I stop taking it whenever I want?

• Yes, but it is best to discuss with your doctor first to plan for future contraception or cycle changes.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.