Alesse 28 day (Levonorgestrel/Ethinyl Estradiol)

Do’s

• Take Alesse exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily at the same time each day. This consistency helps maintain consistent hormone levels in your body for effective birth control.
• Take it consistently. Don't skip doses. Missing pills increases the risk of pregnancy.
• If you're new to Alesse, begin taking the first tablet on the first Sunday after your period starts or on the 1st day of your period.
• During the first week of your first cycle using Alesse, use a backup birth control method (e.g., condoms) to prevent pregnancy until the medication becomes fully effective.
• Take pills in the exact order they appear in the pack, one per day for 21 days (active pills with hormones).
• If you experience side effects like nausea, discuss alternative dosing times with your healthcare provider (e.g., after dinner or bedtime).

Don'ts

• Don't take more or less than prescribed or take pills at different times of the day.
• Don't stop taking Alesse without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't rely on inactive pills. The last 7 pills in the pack (if applicable) are inactive and don't contain hormones. Don't rely on them for birth control.
• Don't ignore missed doses. If you miss a dose, follow the specific instructions in the package leaflet or consult your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of pregnancy.
• Don't take Alesse past its expiration date.

Common side effects:

• Changes in weight or appetite
• Problems with contact lenses
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Changes in menstrual periods
• Decreased sex drive

Serious side effects (rare, but may require medical attention):

• Lumps in the breast
• Mental/mood changes (such as new or worsening depression)
• Severe stomach/abdominal pain
• Unusual changes in vaginal bleeding (such as continuous spotting, sudden heavy bleeding, and missed periods)
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the eyes/skin

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Alesse 28 days, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any estrogens, progestins, or any ingredients in Alesse 28 Days.

Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to your healthcare provider before using Alesse 28 Days, especially:

• Blood clots or clotting disorders
• High blood pressure
• Abnormal breast exam or history of cancer (especially endometrial or breast cancer)
• High cholesterol or triglycerides
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Family history of angioedema (swelling disorder)
• Gallbladder problems
• Severe headaches/migraines
• Heart problems (valve disease, irregular heartbeat, heart attack)
• History of jaundice during pregnancy or hormonal birth control use
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease (including tumors)
• Obesity
• Stroke
• Swelling (edema)
• Thyroid problems
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

If you have diabetes, Alesse 28 Days may affect your blood sugar. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and consult your healthcare provider if you experience signs of high blood sugar (increased thirst/urination). Your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet may need adjustment.

If using chewable tablets, be aware of sugar and/or aspartame content, especially if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or other conditions requiring you to limit these substances.

Alesse 28 Days may increase blood clot risk. Inform your healthcare provider if you are having or planning surgery or will be immobile for long periods (long flights). You may need to temporarily stop using this medication or take special precautions.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including Alesse 28 Days, before having surgery.

Alesse 28 Days may cause skin darkening (melasma). Limit sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.

You may experience vision problems or contact lens discomfort while using Alesse 28 Days. Consult your eye healthcare provider if these occur.

Alesse 28 Days should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, tell your healthcare provider immediately. Discuss reliable birth control methods with your healthcare provider after childbirth or pregnancy loss.

Alesse 28 Days may decrease breast milk production and pass into breast milk in small amounts, potentially affecting the nursing infant. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.