Common Use

Ovral is a contraceptive medication containing ethinyl estradiol and norgestrel, female hormones that prevent ovulation. It alters the cervical mucus and uterine lining, hindering sperm movement and the attachment of a fertilized egg to the uterus.

Dosage and Direction

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Start the first pill on the first day of your period or the first Sunday after your period begins. First-time users may require additional birth control methods. Ovral comes in 28-day packs with seven 'reminder' pills to maintain a regular cycle. Periods usually occur while taking the reminder pills. Breakthrough bleeding may occur; consult your doctor if it is heavy or persistent. Take one pill daily at the same time. Start a new pack after finishing the current one. You may need to temporarily stop using Ovral before certain medical tests or surgeries.

Precautions

Use additional birth control methods like condoms or spermicides when starting Ovral. Hormone intake may increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke, especially in those over 35 or smokers. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart issues, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, angina, high cholesterol, depression, seizures, epilepsy, diabetes, gallbladder disease, varicose veins, tuberculosis, uterine fibroid tumors, or fibrocystic breast disease.

Contraindications

Ovral is not suitable for pregnant women, those who recently gave birth, or individuals with a history of stroke, blood clots, circulation issues, abnormal vaginal bleeding, hormone-related cancer, liver disease or cancer, migraine headaches, heart valve disorders, severe high blood pressure, or jaundice caused by birth control pills.

Side Effects

In addition to allergic reactions like hives, skin rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, Ovral may cause sudden numbness or weakness, pain behind the eyes, vision problems, headaches, confusion, speech or balance issues, changes in migraine patterns, chest pain, nausea, sweating, swelling of the extremities, depression, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark urine, or jaundice.

Drug Interaction

Certain medications can interact with Ovral. Inform your doctor about all prescribed and over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements you use, especially theophylline, acetaminophen, ascorbic acid, prednisolone, St. John's wort, seizure medications, cyclosporine, barbiturates, HIV or AIDS medications, and antibiotics.

Missed Dose

Missing a pill increases the risk of pregnancy. If you miss one active pill, take two pills as soon as you remember and resume your schedule. If you miss two 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. If you miss two active pills in the third week or three pills in any week, start a new pack as a First Day starter. Missing three active pills in a row may delay your period. If you miss two periods in a row, you may be pregnant. Discard missed reminder pills and continue your schedule.

Overdose

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

Storage

Store Ovral at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F), away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Avoid storing it in bathrooms or places accessible to children.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general purposes only and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or self-treatment.