Oral Contraceptives (Oral)
Key points
- Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yasmin, Aviane, Necon 1/35, Ortho-Novum 7/7/7, Low-Ogestrel 28, Low-Ogestrel 21, Ortho-Cyclen, Femhrt 1/5, Alesse 28, Estrostep Fe, Levora-28, Ovcon 35, Zovia 1/35e, Loestrin Fe 1/20 There may be other brand names for this medicine.
- You should not use oral contraceptives if you have ever had an allergic reaction to them or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- You should not use if you have heart disease or have had a blood clot.
Oral Contraceptives (By Mouth)
Oral contraceptives are birth control pills.
Brand Name(s):
Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yasmin, Aviane, Necon 1/35, Ortho-Novum 7/7/7, Low-Ogestrel 28, Low-Ogestrel 21, Ortho-Cyclen, Femhrt 1/5, Alesse 28, Estrostep Fe, Levora-28, Ovcon 35, Zovia 1/35e, Loestrin Fe 1/20
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use oral contraceptives if you have ever had an allergic reaction to them or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not use if you have heart disease or have had a blood clot.
How to Use This Medicine:
Coated Tablet, Tablet
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- You may take this medicine with food to lessen stomach upset.
- Keep your pills in the container you receive from the pharmacy. Take the pills in the order they appear in the container.
- Take your pill at the same time every day. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
If a dose is missed:
- If one dose is missed: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Take 2 tablets if you do not remember until the next day. Ask your health caregiver if you need to USE ANOTHER KIND OF BIRTH CONTROL until your period begins.
- If you miss two doses in a row: Take 2 pills a day for the next 2 days and then go back to taking one a day. Ask your health caregiver if you need to USE ANOTHER KIND OF BIRTH CONTROL until your period begins.
- If you miss 3 doses in a row: Stop taking this month's pills AND USE A DIFFERENT METHOD OF BIRTH CONTROL until your period begins; then start a new cycle of pills.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
- Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.