Seasonale (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel)

Do’s

• Take Seasonale exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily at the same time each day.
• Follow the package instructions to find the first tablet, start with the first tablet in the pack, and take them in the correct order. Do not skip doses.
• Take Seasonale with food or at bedtime if you experience stomach upset or nausea.
• Begin taking Seasonale on the first Sunday following your period or on the first day of your period.
• Take one active pill daily for 84 days in a row, followed by 7 days of inactive pills.
• Start a new pack on the 8th day, regardless of whether you have your period.
• Use a backup form of birth control (like condoms) for the first 7 days if you are new to Seasonale.
• Consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions about using Seasonale.

Don'ts

• Don't skip doses of Seasonale. This can increase your risk of pregnancy.
• Don't take Seasonale at different times each day. Consistency is key for effectiveness.
• Don't stop taking Seasonale without talking to your healthcare provider first.
• Don't expect your period every month. You may have periods less frequently with Seasonale.

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Breast tenderness
• Changes in weight
• Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Mood changes
• Acne
• Decreased libido
• Vaginal discharge
• Fluid retention
• Increased blood pressure
• Skin discoloration
• Hair loss
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in vision
• Changes in sex drive
• Changes in breast size

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Blood clots in the legs, lungs, or eyes
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• Liver problems
• Gallbladder disease
• Severe depression
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Severe stomach or abdominal pain
• Unusual changes in vaginal bleeding
• Breast lumps
• Mental/mood changes
• Severe headaches
• Vision changes
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Leg pain that does not go away
• Allergic reactions

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

Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you have, especially to ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel, other estrogens, progestins, or any ingredients in Seasonale.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, particularly if you have:

• Blood clots
• Blood 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 a swelling disorder (angioedema)
• Gallbladder problems
• Severe headaches/migraines
• Heart problems
• History of jaundice during pregnancy or hormonal birth control use
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Obesity
• Stroke
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

If you have diabetes, Seasonale may affect your blood sugar. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.

Inform your healthcare provider if you are having surgery or will be immobile for a long period. This increases your risk of blood clots.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products) before having surgery or any medical/dental procedures.

Do not use Seasonale if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

Do not use Seasonale if you smoke and are over 35 years old. Smoking increases the risk of serious side effects with hormonal birth control.

Seasonale may not be suitable for everyone. Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before using it.