Desogestrel
Generic Details
Generic Name
Desogestrel
Other Names
- Cerazette
- Cerelle
- Isibloom
Drug Class
- Progestin
- Progestogen
Chemical Formula
C22H30O
Molecular Weight
310.47 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits ovulation
- Thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm penetration
- Alters endometrium to prevent implantation
Indications
- Contraception
- Treatment of irregular menstruation
- Menstrual pain relief
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral tablets
Typical Dosage
- Take a tablet daily at the same time
- No pill-free interval
Pediatric Dosage
- Not recommended for use in pre-pubertal girls
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustment may be required based on individual health conditions
Side Effects
- Irregular bleeding
- Headache
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Weight changes
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
- Severe liver disease
Pregnancy Category
- X - Contraindicated
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Strong enzyme inducers may decrease efficacy
- Antibiotics like Rifampicin may reduce effectiveness
Overdose Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Vaginal bleeding
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: High protein binding
- Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism via CYP3A4
- Excretion: Eliminated in urine and feces
Precautions
- Monitor blood pressure
- Regular gynecological check-ups
Warnings
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Not effective in protecting against sexually transmitted infections
Others
- May be used in women with contraindications to estrogen-containing contraceptives