Ethinyl Estradiol + Desogestrel (0.02 mg)
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ethinyl Estradiol/Desogestrel 0.02 mg
Other Names
- EE/DSG 0.02 mg
Drug Class
- Contraceptive - Progestin/Estrogen Combination
Chemical Formula
Molecular Weight
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibition of ovulation
- Thickening of cervical mucus
- Changes in endometrium
Indications
- Prevention of pregnancy
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral tablet
Typical Dosage
- Take one tablet daily for 28 days, starting on the first day of the menstrual cycle
Pediatric Dosage
- Use not recommended in premenarchal females
Geriatric Dosage
- Use with caution in women over 35 years
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Weight changes
- Irregular bleeding
Contraindications
- History of blood clots
- Liver disease
- Breast cancer
Pregnancy Category
- Category X - Not to be used during pregnancy
Lactation Safety
- Small amounts of hormones excreted in breast milk, not recommended during breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Antibiotics (eg. Rifampin)
- Anticonvulsants (eg. Carbamazepine)
- St. John's Wort
Overdose Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Vaginal bleeding
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, symptomatic and supportive treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Highly protein bound
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted in urine and feces
Precautions
- Smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events
Warnings
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Higher risk in women with certain medical conditions