Common Use

Alesse is a contraception medication used to prevent ovulation. It alters the cervical mucus and uterine lining, hindering the movement of sperm to the uterus and preventing the attachment of a fertilized egg to the uterus.

Dosage and Direction

Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Take the first pill on the first day of your period or the first Sunday after your period starts. If you are using Alesse for the first time, you may need additional birth control methods. The 28-day birth control pack includes seven reminder pills to maintain a regular cycle. Your period usually begins while taking the reminder pills. If you experience heavy or prolonged breakthrough bleeding, consult your doctor. Take each pill at the same time daily. Start a new pack immediately after finishing the current one. You may need to temporarily stop using Alesse before certain medical tests or surgeries.

Precautions

Additional birth control methods like condoms or spermicides may be necessary when starting Alesse. Hormone intake can increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke, especially for individuals over 35 or smokers. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, angina, high cholesterol, depression, seizures, epilepsy, diabetes, gallbladder disease, varicose veins, tuberculosis, uterine fibroid tumors, fibrocystic breast disease, or breast lumps.

Contraindications

Alesse should not be used by pregnant women or those who have recently given birth. It is also contraindicated for individuals with a history of stroke, blood clots, circulation problems, abnormal vaginal bleeding, hormone-related cancer, liver disease, liver cancer, migraine headaches, heart valve disorders, severe high blood pressure, or jaundice caused by birth control pills.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include allergic reactions such as hives, skin rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. Other symptoms may include sudden numbness or weakness, vision problems, headaches, confusion, speech or balance issues, changes in migraine patterns, chest pain, nausea, sweating, swelling of extremities, depression, stomach pain, dark urine, or jaundice.

Drug Interaction

Alesse may interact with other medications. Inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements you are taking, especially theophylline, acetaminophen, ascorbic acid, prednisolone, St. John's wort, seizure medications, cyclosporine, barbiturate sedatives, HIV or AIDS medications, and antibiotics.

Missed Dose

Missing a dose increases the risk of pregnancy. If you miss one active pill, take two pills as soon as you remember and continue your schedule. If you miss two active pills in a row during the first or second week, take two pills daily for two days and use backup contraception for seven days. If you miss two active pills in the third week or three pills in any week, start a new pack as if you are a first-day starter. If you miss reminder pills, discard them and continue your schedule.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, nausea, and vaginal bleeding.

Storage

Store Alesse at room temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom or places accessible to children.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of the medication and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. We disclaim responsibility for any errors in this information or any damages resulting from its use.