Drug Uses
Alesse is one of the most effective methods for birth control (99% effective when taken as directed). Alesse contains natural hormones that stop the ovary from releasing an egg and prevent a man's sperm from entering the uterus. So with Alesse you can put your mind at ease and enjoy intimate moments with your partner.

How Taken
Take the first pill in a package on the first Sunday after your period begins (unless otherwise directed by your doctor). Take one pill every day, no more than 24 hours after your last dose. Try to take the pills at a time that you will remember every day--for example just before bed, with a meal, or first thing in the morning. Taking your pill at night may help to reduce any nausea or headache that you may experience because of the hormones. If you are on a 28-day cycle, take one pill every day. When the pack runs out, throw it away. Begin a new pack the following day. The 28-day cycle contains seven pills that are either placebos (with no active ingredients) or iron supplements. These are "reminder" pills to keep you on your regular cycle. They are taken while you are menstruating. If you are on a 21-day cycle, take one pill every day for 21 days, then do not take any pills for 7 days. You should have your period during the 7 days with no pills. Resume your pills on the 8th day with a new package. Follow your doctor's instructions about using a second form of birth control when you first start taking birth control pills, when you are taking antibiotics, or if you miss a pill. If you are unsure what to do in any of these cases, talk to your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor about how to ensure that you will not become pregnant.

Warnings/Precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease; have had a stroke; have a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder; have breast, uterine, or another hormone-related cancer; have liver disease or a history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) caused by use of birth control in the past; have undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding; have migraines; have asthma; or have seizures or epilepsy. You may not be able to take birth control pills, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. Birth control pills are in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that birth control pills will cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can have very serious negative effects on a developing baby. Do not take birth control pills if you are pregnant or if you think you might be pregnant. The hormones in birth control pills pass into breast milk and may decrease milk production. Do not take birth control pills without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Missed Dose
If you miss pills you could get pregnant. This includes starting the pack late. The more pills you miss, the more likely you are to get pregnant in the 7 days after you miss pills.The pill may not be as effective if you miss pink active pills, and particularly if you miss the first few or the last few pink active pills in a pack.MISSING PILLS CAN ALSO CAUSE SPOTTING OR LIGHT BLEEDING, even when you make up these missed pills.On the days you take 2 pills to make up for missed pills, you could also feel a little sick to your stomach.

Possible Side Effects
- Vaginal bleeding
- Fluid retention
- Melasma.
Other side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, change in appetite, headache, nervousness, depression, dizziness, loss of scalp hair, rash, vaginal infections, inflammation of the pancreas, and allergic reactions. If any of these side effects bother you, call your health-care provider.

Storage
Store at controlled room temperature 20? to 25?C (68? to 77?F). Keep this medication in the container it came in, and out of reach of children.

Overdose
Symptoms of oral contraceptive over dosage in adults and children may include nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness/fatigue; withdrawal bleeding may occur in females. There is no specific antidote and further treatment of overdose, if necessary, is directed to the symptoms.

More Information
Your health-care provider will take a medical and family history before prescribing oral contraceptives and will examine you. The physical examination may be delayed to another time if you request it and the health-care provider believes that it is appropriate to postpone it. You should be reexamined at least once a year. Be sure to inform your health-care provider if there is a family history of any of the conditions listed previously in this leaflet. Be sure to keep all appointments with your health-care provider, because this is a time to determine if there are early signs of side effects of oral-contraceptive use.Do not use the drug for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed. This drug has been prescribed specifically for you; do not give it to others who may want birth-control pills.Avoid smoking. Smoking greatly increases your risk of a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot formation.

Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.       

Drug Uses
Mircette Tablets are indicated for the prevention of pregnancy if you elect to use this product as a method of contraception.

How Taken
Oral contraceptives must be used consistently to prevent pregnancy. Take this medication with food or immediately after a meal to avoid stomach upset. Try to take this medication at the same time each day. This may help you to remember to take it regularly. Oral contraceptives come in packets of 21 or 28 tablets. If you have a 21-tablet packet, take one tablet daily for 21 days and then wait 7 days (no tablets) before starting a new packet. If you have a 28-tablet packet, take one tablet daily for 28 days in the order specified in your packet. The last seven tablets in a 28-tablet packet are a different color. These tablets do not contain ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel; they contain iron (ferrous fumarate) or an inactive ingredient and are used to permit continuous daily dosing during the entire 28-day cycle. This eliminates the need to count the number of days between cycles. A new 28-tablet packet should be started the day after taking your 28th tablet. When first starting on this medication, use an additional method of birth control until you have correctly taken at least 7 days' worth of tablets. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully concerning when to take your first tablet (on the first or fifth day of your menstrual period, or on the first Sunday on or after bleeding begins). Take oral contraceptives exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of this medication unless your doctor has advised you to do so. Do not stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor.

Warnings/Precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease; had a stroke; a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder; breast, uterine, or another hormone-related cancer; liver disease or a history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) caused by use of birth control in the past; undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding; migraines; asthma; or seizures or epilepsy. You may not be able to take birth control pills, or you may require special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. Birth control pills are in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that birth control pills are known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can have serious negative effects on developing baby. Do not take birth control pills if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. The hormones in birth control pills pass into breast milk and may decrease milk production. Do not take birth control pills without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Missed Dose
If you MISS 1 active [white] pill:
1. Take it as soon as you remember. Take the next pill at your regular time. This means you take 2 pills in 1 day.
2. You do not need to use a back-up birth control method if you have sex.
If you MISS 2 active [white] pills in a row in WEEK 1 OR WEEK 2 of your pack:
1. Take 2 pills on the day you remember and 2 pills the next day.
2. Then take 1 pill a day until you finish the pack.
3. You MAY BECOME PREGNANT if you have sex in the 7 days after you miss pills.
You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms, foam, or sponge) asa back-up method for those 7 days.
If you MISS 2 active [white] pills in a row in WEEK 3:
1. If you are a Day 1 Starter:
THROW OUT the rest of the pill pack and start a new pack that same day.
If you are a Sunday Starter:
Keep taking 1 pill every day until Sunday.On Sunday, THROW OUT the rest of the pack and start a new pack of pills that same day.
2. You may not have your period this month but this is expected. However, if youmiss your period 2 months in a row, call your doctor or health care provider because you might be pregnant.
3. You MAY BECOME PREGNANT if you have sex in the 7 days after you miss pills.You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms, foam, or sponge) asa back-up method for those 7 days.
If you MISS 3 OR MORE active [white] pills in a row (during the first 3 weeks):
1. If you are a Day 1 Starter:
THROW OUT the rest of the pill pack and start a new pack that same day.
If you are a Sunday Starter:
Keep taking 1 pill every day until Sunday.On Sunday, THROW OUT the rest of the pack and start a new pack of pills that same day.
2. You may not have your period this month but this is expected. However, if you miss your period 2 months in a row, call your doctor or health care provider because you might be pregnant.
3. You MAY BECOME PREGNANT if you have sex in the 7 days after you miss pills.You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms, foam, or sponge) asa back-up method for those 7 days.

Possible Side Effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking the birth control pills and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); a blood clot in the lung (shortness of breath or pain in the chest); a blood clot in an arm or leg (pain, redness, swelling, or numbness of an arm or leg); high blood pressure (severe headache, flushing, blurred vision); or liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue). Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take the birth control pills and talk to your doctor if you experience headache or dizziness; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; breakthrough bleeding; or breast tenderness. These side effects may disappear or be less noticeable after 3 to 6 months of birth control use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you find any side effect very bothersome. The side effects listed below generally occur very rarely and are not considered serious. If you experience any of the following, talk to your doctor when it is convenient: depression; changes in weight or appetite; vaginal yeast infection; changes in your menstrual cycle; oily skin or acne; changes in your sex drive; lethargy or fatigue; bloating; changes in skin color; or changes in blood sugar. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Storage
Store below 86? F (30? C).

Overdose
Serious ill effects have not been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of oral contraceptives by young children. Over dosage may cause nausea, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in females.

More Information
Avoid smoking. Smoking greatly increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot formation. Birth control pills do not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases including HIV or AIDS. Using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from these diseases.

Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.       

Drug Uses
Ortho Evra is a contraceptive (birth control) skin patch used to prevent pregnancy. It is a combination hormonal contraceptive because it contains two hormones, estrogen and progestin. It does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases.

How Taken
This birth control method uses a 28-day (four week) cycle. One topical patch is applied and kept in place for one week. A new topical patch is applied each week for three weeks in a row (21 total days). You should not apply a patch during the fourth week (a one-week break). During the one-week break, you should have your menstrual period. Every new patch should be applied on the same day of the week; this will be your 'Patch Change Day'. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding when to start using Ortho Evra and whether back-up contraception is needed temporarily. Clean and dry the area of skin where the patch will be applied. The patch can be placed on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper torso in a place where it won't be rubbed by tight clothing. Never put the patch on the breasts. To avoid skin irritation, apply each new patch to a different place on the skin. Do not apply the patches to skin that is red, irritated or cut. Do not use creams, oils, powder, or makeup on the skin where you will put a patch or near a patch your are wearing. It may cause the patch to become loose. If a patch causes irritation, it can be removed and a new patch may be applied to a new location until the next 'Patch Change Day'. Only one patch should be worn at a time.

Warnings/Precautions
The risks associated with using Ortho Evra increase significantly if you: smoke, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, have or have had clotting disorders, heart attack, stroke, chest pain (angina pectoris), and cancer of the breast or reproductive organs, jaundice, or malignant or benign liver tumors. Ortho Evra may be less effective in women weighing more than 198 lbs. (90 kg). Do not use Ortho Evra without first talking to your doctor if you weigh more than 198 lbs. (90 kg).Ortho Evra is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that Ortho Evra is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use Ortho Evra if you are pregnant. Ortho Evra may decrease milk flow and have other effects on milk composition. Do not use Ortho Evra without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Missed Dose
If you forget to change your patch:-at the start of any patch cycle,Week one (Day 1): If you forget to apply your patch, YOU COULD BECOME PREGNANT ? you must use back-up contraception for one week. Apply the first patch of your new cycle as soon as you remember. You now have a new Patch Change Day and new Day 1.-in the middle of your patch cycle,Week two or week three: If you forget to change your patch for one or two days, apply a new patch as soon as you remember. Apply your next patch on your normal Patch Change Day. No back-up contraception is needed.Week two or week three: If you forget to change your patch for more than two days, YOU COULD BECOME PREGNANT start a new four week cycle as soon as you remember by putting on a new patch. You now have a different Patch Change Day and a new Day 1. You must use back-up contraception for the first week of your new cycle.-at the end of your patch cycle,Week four: If you forget to remove your patch, take it off as soon as you remember. Start your next cycle on your normal Patch Change Day the day after Day 28. No back-up contraception is needed.-at the start of your next patch cycle,Day 1 (week one): If you forget to apply your patch, YOU COULD BECOME PREGNANT. Apply the first patch of your new cycle as soon as you remember. You now have a new Patch Change Day and new Day. You must use back-up contraception for the first week of your new cycle.

Possible Side Effects
Some common side effects with combination hormonal contraceptives like Ortho Evra are:-breast tenderness and enlargement-headache-nausea-menstrual changes-abdominal cramps and bloating-vaginal discharge.

Storage
Store at 25?C (77?F); excursions permitted to 15-30?C (59-86?F). Store patches in their protective pouches. Apply immediately upon removal from the protective pouch. Do not store in the refrigerator or freezer.Used patches still contain some active hormones. Each patch should be carefully folded in half so that it sticks to itself before safely disposing of it in the trash. Used patches should not be flushed down the toilet.

Overdose
Ortho Evra is unlikely to cause an overdose because the patch releases a steady amount of the hormones.Do not use more than one patch at a time. Serious ill effects have not been reported when large doses of oral contraceptives were accidentally taken by young children. Over dosage may cause nausea and vomiting.Vaginal bleeding may occur in females. In case of over dosage, contact your health care professional or pharmacist.

More Information
Your health care professional will take a medical and family history before prescribing Ortho Evra and will examine you. The physical examination may be delayed to another time if you request it and the health care professional believes that it is a good medical practice to postpone it. You should be reexamined at least once a year. Be sure to inform your health care professional if there is a family history of any of the conditions listed previously in this leaflet. Be sure to keep all appointments with your health care professional, because this is a time to determine if there are early signs of side effects of hormonal contraceptive use. Do not use the drug for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed. This drug has been prescribed specifically for you; do not give it to others who may want birth control.If you want more information about Ortho Evra, ask your health care professional or pharmacist.

Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.       

Drug Uses
Ortho Tri-Cyclen is an estrogen and progestin combination used to prevent pregnancy. It may also be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, treat symptoms of menopause, or treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken
THE RIGHT WAY TO TAKE THE PILL IS TO TAKE ONE PILL EVERY DAY AT THE SAME TIME. If you miss pills you could get pregnant. This includes starting the pack late. The more pills you miss, the more likely you are to get pregnant. MANY WOMEN HAVE SPOTTING OR LIGHT BLEEDING, OR MAY FEEL SICK TO THEIR STOMACH DURING THE FIRST 1-3 PACKS OF PILLS. If you feel sick to your stomach, do not stop taking the pill. The problem will usually go away. If it doesn't go away, check with your health care professional. MISSING PILLS CAN ALSO CAUSE SPOTTING OR LIGHT BLEEDING, even when you make up these missed pills. On the days you take 2 pills to make up for missed pills, you could also feel a little sick to your stomach. IF YOU HAVE VOMITING OR DIARRHEA, or IF YOU TAKE SOME MEDICINES, including some antibiotics, your pills may not work as well. Use a back-up method (such as condoms or spermicides) until you check with your health care professional IF YOU HAVE TROUBLE REMEMBERING TO TAKE THE PILL, talk to your health care professional about how to make pill-taking easier or about using another method of birth control. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR ARE UNSURE ABOUT THE INFORMATION IN THIS LEAFLET, call your health care professional.

Warnings/Precautions
Smoking cigarettes while using Ortho Tri-Cyclen may increase your risk of stroke, heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, or other diseases of the heart and blood vessels. If you have vomiting or diarrhea for any reason, your medicine may not work as well. Taking certain antibiotics or anticonvulsants while you are using Ortho Tri-Cyclen may decrease the effectiveness of Ortho Tri-Cyclen. To prevent pregnancy, use an additional form of birth control until your next period. If you have any questions, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using Ortho Tri-Cyclen. If you wear contact lenses and you develop problems with them, contact your doctor. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Ortho Tri-Cyclen may cause dark skin patches on your face. Exposure to the sun may make these patches darker. If patches develop, use a sunscreen or protective clothing when exposed to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths. Use of Ortho Tri-Cyclen will not prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Do not use Ortho Tri-Cyclen if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. Ortho Tri-Cyclen is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Ortho Tri-Cyclen, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Missed Dose
If you miss one dose, take the dose as soon as you remember or take two pills at the time of your next regularly scheduled dose. There is little likelihood that ovulation will occur. You may, however, want to use a second method of birth control such as a condom or a spermicidal cream, jelly, or foam for at least 7 consecutive days following the missed tablet to ensure protection from pregnancy. If you miss two tablets in a row, take the two missed tablets as soon as you remember or with your next regularly scheduled dose (three total). Or, you may take two tablets each for the next two regularly scheduled doses (one missed tablet plus one regularly scheduled tablet for 2 days in a row). Chances are much greater that you may ovulate so you must use another form of birth control for at least 7 days following the missed tablets. It is even better to use a second method of birth control until your next period. If you miss three tablets in a row, throw away the package and start a new package on the 7th day after the last day you took a pill. Use another method of birth control until you have taken a pill for 7 days in a row. Your period should occur during the 7 days without pills. If it doesn't, have a pregnancy test before beginning a new package of pills.

Possible Side Effects
Side effects may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, bleeding between menstrual periods, breast tenderness, or weight change. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience persistent or recurrent abnormal vaginal bleeding, a missed menstrual period, dizziness or fainting, swelling of fingers or ankles, headache, or difficulty wearing contact lenses. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience sharp or crushing chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, sudden severe headache or leg pain, yellow skin or eyes, changes in vision, numbness of an arm or leg, or severe stomach pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Storage
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.

Overdose
Serious ill effects have not been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of oral contraceptives by young children. Over dosage may cause nausea and withdrawal bleeding may occur in females.

More Information
Your health care professional will take a medical and family history before prescribing oral contraceptives and will examine you. The physical examination may be delayed to another time if you request it and the health care professional believes that it is a good medical practice to postpone it. You should be reexamined at least once a year. Be sure to inform your health care professional if there is a family history of any of the conditions listed previously in this leaflet. Be sure to keep all appointments with your health care professional, because this is a time to determine if there are early signs of side effects of oral contraceptive use. Do not use the drug for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed. This drug has been prescribed specifically for you; do not give it to others who may want birth control pills.

Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.       

Drug Uses
Triphasil is an oral contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy, also to regulate your menstrual cycle. Some brands of birth control pills can be used for treating acne or as apill for emergency contraception ("morning after"). Please consult your doctor or pharmacist. By using of this medication youor your partner are not protected against sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, gonorrhea etc.

How Taken
This medication is to be taken with food or immediately after a meal (to prevent stomach upset). If it is possible, try to take this medication at the same time each day, this makes easier for you to remember to take it. You should learn the proper use of your particular medication brand. Follow carefully your dosing schedule and always ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. During the first week of taking this medication you should use a supplemental form of birth control since it takes a while to be effective. If used as a "morning after" pill, please follow the directions from your doctor.

Warning
Chances of having heart problems increase if you smoke cigarettes while using this medication. Do not smoke while using this medication. The risk of heart problems is growing with frequent smoking (more than 15 cigarettes per day) and with age (in women greater than 35 years of age).

Precautions
This drug must not be used during pregnancy. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. This medication passes into breast milk and may affect milk production (may have harmful effects on a nursing infant). Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Before taking this medication, you should tell your doctor your entire medical history, including your family medical history, with special focus on: high blood pressure, asthma, stroke, kidney disease, liver heart disease, blood clots, heart attack, history of jaundice (yellowing skin/eyes) or high blood pressure during pregnancy, excessive weight gain or fluid retention during menstrual cycle, seizures, migraine headaches, breast cancer, high blood level of cholesterol or lipids (fats), diabetes, depression. This drug may cause a patchy, darkening of the skin on the face (melasma), depending on strength (higher strengths are more likely to cause melasma). This darkening could be intensified by sunlight, you may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding use of sunscreens and protective clothing. After you stop taking birth control pills, it may take a long time for you to become pregnant. Consult your doctor. Do not smoke cigarettes. Birth-control pills slightly increase your risk of strokes, heart attacks, gallbladder disease, blood clots, high blood pressure, vision problems, and liver tumors. The risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure and heart attacks further increases with cigarette smoking (especially 15 or more cigarettes daily) and age (women older than 35/smokers or 40/nonsmokers years of age). Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the patient labeling which explains these risks in more detail. If you have any questions please consult your doctor, including questions regarding possible use in nonsmokers over 40 years of age. You may develop vision problems if you are near-sighted or wear contact lenses and your tolerance of the lenses may decrease. Contact your eye doctor if these problems occur. Tell the doctor that you take birth control pills before having surgery, including dental surgery.

Interactions
Tell your doctor about all prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking. Drugs such as Griseofulvin, many antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, macrolides, tetracyclines, sulfas, cephalosporins), chloramphenicol, many seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin, barbiturates, primidone, carbamazepine), dapsone, rifamycins (e.g., rifampin), modafinil, nevirapine, nelfinavir, ritonavir, St John's wort, troglitazone may decrease the effectiveness of the pill. Ask your doctor if you should use additional birth control methods while taking any of the drugs mentioned above while taking birth control pills. Also tell your doctor if you use: thyroid hormone drugs, certain benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, chlordiazepoxide), prednisone-like drugs, certain antidepressants (e.g., tricyclics), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), "blood thinners" (anticoagulants such as warfarin), insulin. This product can affect the results of certain lab tests (e.g., thyroid). Inform all laboratory personnel that you use this drug. Birth control pills may significantly intensify the effects of alcohol. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about this. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Over Dose
Contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately if you suspect an overdose. The symptoms of overdose could be nausea and vomiting. Females may experience vaginal bleeding.

Missed Dose
Missed dose advice depends on the brand used, the number of doses missed. Product package information should include advice on missed doses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Possible Side Effects
This medication may cause headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, stomach upset, bloating, or nausea. Contact your doctor if these effects persist or worsen or if you experience: groin or calf pain, sudden severe headache, severe depression, chest pain, shortness of breath, lumps in the breast, weakness or tingling in the arms or legs, yellowing of the eyes or skin. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage
This medication should be stored at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Notes
You should keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. At least once a year you should have a complete physical examination (blood pressure, breast and pelvic examinations, PAP test for vaginal cancer). Do not allow anyone else to take this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions for examining your own breasts, and report any lumps immediately. A manufacturer's fact sheet about this drug should be dispensed with each prescription. Read the information carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have.

Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.       

Drug Uses
Yasmin is a birth control pill used to prevent pregnancy. Yasmin differs from other birth control pills because it contains a progestin hormone called drospirenone. It does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases.

How Taken
This oral contraceptive comes in a packet of 28 tablets. The first 21 tablets are the active pills; they contain the active ingredients (hormones) ethinyl estradiol and drospirenon. The last seven tablets in a 28-tablet packet are the reminder pills; they are different in color and do not contain any hormone. Day 1 start: Take the first active pill of the first pack during the first 24 hours of your period. You will not need to use a back-up method of birth control, since you are starting the pill at the beginning of your period. Sunday start: Take the first active pill of the first pack on Sunday after your period starts, even if you are still bleeding. If your period starts on Sunday, start the pack that same day. Use another method of birth control (such as condoms or spermicides) if you have sex during 7 days after you start your first packet.

Warnings/Precautions
Do not take Yasmin without first talking to your doctor if you have had a stroke, heart attack, or blood clot; high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease; a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder; breast, uterine, or another hormone-related cancer; or undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding. Before taking Yasmin, also tell your doctor if you have diabetes; high cholesterol; gallbladder disease; migraines or other headaches; epilepsy; a history of depression; a history of scanty or irregular menstrual periods; smoke cigarettes; or need an extended period of bed rest due to surgery or illness. Yasmin is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that it has been reported to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can have very serious negative effects on a developing baby. Do not take drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol if you are pregnant or if you think you might be pregnant. Yasmin passes into breast milk and may decrease milk production. Do not take Yasmin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Avoid smoking. Smoking greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot formation.

Missed Dose
If you MISS 1 yellow active pill:-Take it as soon as you remember. Take the next pill at your regular time.This means you may take two pills in one day.-You do not need to use a back-up birth control method if you have sex.If you MISS 2 yellow active pills in a row in WEEK 1 OR WEEK 2 of your pack:-Take two pills on the day you remember and two pills the next day.-Then take one pill a day until you finish the pack.-You MAY BECOME PREGNANT if you have sex in the 7 days after you miss pills. You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms or spermicides) as a back-up for those 7 days.If you MISS 2 yellow active pills in a row in the 3RD WEEK:-If you are a Day 1 Starter:THROW OUT the rest of the pill pack and start a new pack that same day.If you are a Sunday Starter:Keep taking one pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, THROW OUT the rest of the pack and start a new pack of pills that same day.-You may not have your period this month but this is expected. However, if you miss your period two months in a row, call your doctor or clinic because you might be pregnant.-You MAY BECOME PREGNANT if you have sex in the 7 days after you miss pills. You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms or spermicides) as a back-up for those 7 days.If you MISS 3 OR MORE yellow active pills in a row (during the first3 weeks).- If you are a Day 1 Starter:THROW OUT the rest of the pill pack and start a new pack that same day.If you are a Sunday Starter:Keep taking 1 pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, THROW OUT the rest of the pack and start a new pack of pills that same day.-You may not have your period this month but this is expected. However, ifyou miss your period two months in a row, call your doctor or clinic because you might be pregnant.-You MAY BECOME PREGNANT if you have sex in the 7 days after you miss pills. You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms or spermicides) as a back-up for those 7 days.

Possible Side Effects
VAGINAL BLEEDINGIrregular vaginal bleeding or spotting may occur while you are taking the pills. Irregular bleeding may vary from slight staining between menstrual periods to breakthrough bleeding, which is a flow much like a regular period. Irregular bleeding occurs most often during the first few months of oral contraceptive use, but may also occur after you have been taking the pill for some time. Such bleeding may be temporary and usually does not indicate any serious problems. It is important to continue taking your pills on schedule. If the bleeding occurs in more than one cycle or lasts for more than a few days, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.CONTACT LENSESIf you wear contact lenses and notice a change in vision or an inability to wear your lenses, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.FLUID RETENTIONOral contraceptives may cause edema (fluid retention) with swelling of the fingers or ankles and may raise your blood pressure. If you experience fluid retention, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.MELASMAA spotty darkening of the skin is possible, particularly of the face.OTHER SIDE EFFECTSOther side effects may include change in appetite, headache, nervousness, and depression, and dizziness, loss of scalp hair, rash, and vaginal infections. If any of these side effects bother you, call your doctor or healthcare provider.

Storage
Store at 25?C (77?F); excursions permitted to 15?-30?C (59?-86?F).

Overdose
Serious ill effects have not been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of other oral contraceptives by young children. Over dosage may cause nausea, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in females. Drospirenone, however, is a spironolactone analogue, which has antimineralocorticoid properties. Serum concentration of potassium and sodium, and evidence of metabolic acidosis, should be monitored in cases of overdose.

More Information
Your healthcare provider will take a medical and family history before prescribing oral contraceptives and will examine you. The physical examination may be delayed to another time if you request it and the healthcare provider believes that it is appropriate to postpone it. You should be re-examined at least once a year. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider if there is a family history of any of the conditions listed previously in this leaflet. Be sure to keep all appointments with your healthcare provider, because this is a time to determine if there are early signs of side effects of oral contraceptive use. Do not use the drug for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed. This drug has been prescribed specifically for you; do not give it to others who may want birth-control pills.

Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.