GENERIC NAME: NORETHINDRONE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL - ORAL (nor-ETH-in-drone/ETH-in-il es-tra-DYE-ole)
BRAND NAME(S): Ovcon 35
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Smoking cigarettes while using this medication increases your chance of having heart problems. Do not smoke while using this medication. The risk of heart problems increases with age (especially in women greater than 35 years of age) and with frequent smoking (15 cigarettes per day or greater).
USES: This medication is used in women to prevent pregnancy. Use of this medication does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, gonorrhea).
HOW TO USE: This medication comes with a Patient Information Leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have. Take this medication with food or immediately after a meal to prevent stomach upset. The tablet may be swallowed whole or chewed and swallowed. If the tablet is chewed, you should drink a full glass of liquid (8 oz) immediately after swallowing. Try to take this medication at the same time each day. This may help you to remember to take it. Follow your dosing schedule carefully. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Use a supplemental form of birth control (e.g., latex condoms, spermicide) during the first week of taking this medication since it takes a while to be effective.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, stomach upset, bloating, or nausea. If these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: severe depression, groin or calf pain, sudden severe headache, 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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Pregnancy Planning - The goals of pregnancy planning are to create a healthy environment for the fetus and to prevent birth defects and other pregnancy related problems.
- Sexual Health: FAQs About Sex and Relationships - Read about the frequently asked questions about sex and relationshiops. What are the most common causes of sex problems among couples? What causes sexual problems in women?
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows