Desogestrel (0.075mg)

Desogestrel (0.075mg) — Uses and Benefits

This composition is mainly used for preventing pregnancy in women who need a hormonal contraceptive without oestrogen.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Prevention of pregnancy (contraception)
• Suitable for women who are breastfeeding
• Suitable for women who cannot use oestrogen-based pills due to health reasons

HOW IT WORKS

• Thickens the mucus at the entrance of the womb, making it hard for sperm to enter
• Thins the lining of the womb so a fertilised egg cannot easily implant
• In many cases, also stops the ovaries from releasing an egg

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Not used as emergency contraception after unprotected sex
• Not used to treat menstrual disorders or hormonal acne
• Not a fertility treatment

How to Use Desogestrel (0.075mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take one tablet by mouth at the same time every day, as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food
• Continue taking the tablet daily without any gap, even during periods
• Start the first tablet as advised by your doctor, usually on day 1 of your menstrual cycle

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• If you are less than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet immediately and the next one at the usual time
• If you are more than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet immediately and use additional contraception (like condoms) for the next 7 days as advised by your doctor
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one unless instructed
• If unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist right away

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Desogestrel (0.075mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting
• Headache
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Weight gain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Acne
• Decreased sex drive
• Ovarian cysts
• Hair loss
• Dizziness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe abdominal pain
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Sudden severe headache or vision changes
• Signs of blood clot such as leg swelling, chest pain, or breathlessness
• Unusual vaginal bleeding that is heavy or prolonged
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or lips

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

Desogestrel (0.075mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have a known allergy to desogestrel or any ingredient in the tablet
• Have current or past breast cancer
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Have severe liver disease
• Have a history of blood clots in veins (in some cases)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• Are breastfeeding
• Have a history of ectopic pregnancy
• Have liver disease or jaundice
• Have a history of ovarian cysts
• Are taking other medicines, including herbal supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain anti-epileptic medicines
• Certain antibiotics like rifampicin
• St. John's Wort (herbal supplement)
• Some HIV medicines
• Always inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can this pill be taken while breastfeeding?

Yes, this type of pill is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but confirm with your doctor first.

Does this pill protect against STIs?

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

What happens if I take the pill late?

• Taking it more than a few hours late can reduce its effectiveness, so follow the missed dose instructions and consult your doctor.
• This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India. Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.