Mircette

Generic Name: ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel (EH thih nill ess tra DYE ole and des oh JESS trel)
Brand Names: Apri, Cesia, Cyclessa, Desogen, Kariva, Mircette, Ortho-Cept, Reclipsen, Solia, Velivet

What is the most important information I should know about Mircette?

Do not use Mircette if you are pregnant or if you have recently had a baby. Do not use Mircette if you have any of the following conditions: a history of stroke or blood clot, circulation problems (especially if caused by diabetes), a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, severe high blood pressure, migraine headaches, a heart valve disorder, or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.

You may need to use back-up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Taking hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you smoke and are older than 35.

Some drugs can make Mircette less effective, which may result in pregnancy. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, including vitamins, minerals and herbal products. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Mircette?

Mircette can cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant, or if you miss two menstrual periods in a row. If you have recently had a baby, wait at least 4 weeks before taking Mircette (6 weeks if you are breast-feeding). Do not use Mircette if you have:

• a history of a stroke or blood clot;
• circulation problems (especially if caused by diabetes);
• a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer;
• abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• liver disease or liver cancer;
• severe high blood pressure;
• severe migraine headaches;
• a heart valve disorder; or
• a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions. You may need a dosage adjustment or special tests to safely take Mircette.

• high blood pressure, heart disease, congestive heart failure, angina (chest pain), or a history of heart attack;
• high cholesterol or if you are overweight;
• a history of depression;
• gallbladder disease;
• diabetes;
• seizures or epilepsy;
• a history of irregular menstrual cycles; or
• a history of fibrocystic breast disease, lumps, nodules, or an abnormal mammogram.

The hormones in Mircette can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. Do not use if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What should I avoid while taking Mircette?

Do not smoke while using this medication, especially if you are older than 35. Smoking can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack caused by Mircette.

This medication will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV and AIDS. Using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from these diseases.