Common Use

Mircette is a hormonal contraceptive that combines desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol and ethinyl estradiol to prevent ovulation. It works by altering cervical mucus and the uterine lining, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus and preventing a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine wall.

Dosage and Direction

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully. Begin taking Mircette on the first day of your menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after your period starts. First-time users may need additional birth control methods. Mircette comes in 28-day packs, including seven "reminder" pills. Menstruation typically occurs while taking these reminder pills. If you experience heavy or prolonged breakthrough bleeding, consult your doctor. Take the pill at the same time daily, and start a new pack immediately after finishing the current one. Temporarily discontinue Mircette if required for medical tests or surgery.

Precautions

Use additional birth control methods, like condoms or spermicide, when starting Mircette. Hormonal intake may increase risks of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke, especially for those over 35 or who smoke. Inform your doctor if you have:

• Heart problems or high blood pressure
• History of depression, seizures, or epilepsy
• Diabetes, gallbladder disease, or varicose veins
• Uterine fibroids, fibrocystic breast disease, or other hormone-related conditions

Contraindications

Mircette should not be used by:

• Pregnant women or those recently postpartum
• Individuals with a history of stroke, blood clots, or circulation issues
• Patients with hormone-related cancer, liver disease, or abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Those with severe high blood pressure, heart valve disorders, or jaundice caused by birth control pills

Side Effects

Possible side effects include:

• Allergic reactions (hives, rash, facial swelling, breathing difficulties)
• Sudden numbness, weakness, or vision problems
• Headaches, chest pain, or swelling in the extremities
• Depression, nausea, stomach pain, or jaundice

Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Mircette. Inform your doctor about all prescribed and over-the-counter drugs, including:

• Theophylline, acetaminophen, or vitamin C
• Prednisolone, St. John's wort, or seizure medications
• Cyclosporine, barbiturates, HIV/AIDS medications, and antibiotics

Missed Dose

If you miss a pill, follow these steps:

• One missed active pill: Take two pills as soon as remembered, then resume your schedule.
• Two missed active pills in the first or second week: Take two pills daily for two days, then return to your schedule. Use backup contraception for seven days.
• Two missed active pills in the third week or three missed pills in any week: Start a new pack as if you are a first-day starter.
• Missed reminder pills: Discard them and continue with your schedule.

If you miss periods for two consecutive months, consult your doctor, as you may be pregnant.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Mircette at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and avoid storing it in the bathroom.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general purposes only and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your needs. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this information.