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Desogestrel Contraceptive Pill
Desogestrel is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill, commonly referred to as the “mini pill,” used to prevent pregnancy. It contains the active ingredient desogestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. This pill is suitable for women who cannot tolerate oestrogens or are breastfeeding.
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How Does It Work?
Desogestrel prevents pregnancy through two primary mechanisms:
- Inhibition of Ovulation: Unlike traditional mini pills, desogestrel can suppress ovulation, preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries.
- Thickening of Cervical Mucus: It thickens the mucus in the cervix, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.Â
- Starting on Day 1 of Your Period: If you take desogestrel on the first day of your period, you will be protected from pregnancy immediately.
- Starting at Any Other Time: If you start desogestrel on any other day of your cycle, you should use additional contraception (such as condoms) for the first 2 days.
When taken correctly, desogestrel is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if not always taken correctly, roughly 9 out of 100 women may become pregnant.Â
Standard Method:
- Daily Intake: Take one pill daily at the same time each day, without any breaks between packs.Â
Administration Tips:
- Consistency: Taking the pill at the same time each day maintains its effectiveness.
- Missed Dose: If you are less than 12 hours late taking a pill, take it as soon as you remember and continue with your next pill at the usual time. If you are more than 12 hours late, take the missed pill as soon as you remember, continue with the next pill at the usual time, and use additional contraception for the next 2 days.
Benefits of Taking Desogestrel
- Suitable for Oestrogen Intolerance: Ideal for women who cannot tolerate oestrogens.
- Breastfeeding Compatibility: Can be used by women who are breastfeeding.
- Flexible Timing: Offers a 12-hour window for taking the pill, providing more flexibility compared to other mini pills.
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Irregular bleeding patterns
- Headaches
- Mood changes
- Breast tenderness
These side effects are usually mild and tend to subside as your body adjusts to the medication.
Desogestrel Tablet Composition
Active Ingredients: Desogestrel (75 micrograms)
Inactive Ingredients: Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Povidone, Stearic acid, Silica colloidal anhydrous, Hypromellose, Macrogol 400, Titanium dioxide
Important warning & precautions
Medical Conditions: Consult your doctor if you have a history of blood clots, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, as some can reduce the effectiveness of desogestrel.
Storage
Store desogestrel in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
For personalized advice and to determine if desogestrel is suitable for you, consult with a healthcare professional at YourPharmacy.