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norgestrel (contraceptive) - oral, Ovrette

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GENERIC NAME: NORGESTREL (CONTRACEPTIVE) - ORAL (nor-JESS-trel)

BRAND NAME(S): Ovrette

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to prevent pregnancy. It is often referred to as the "mini-pill" because it does not contain any estrogen. Norgestrel (a form of progestin) is a hormone that prevents pregnancy by changing the womb and cervical mucus to make it more difficult for an egg to meet sperm (fertilization) or for the fertilized egg to attach to the wall of the womb (implantation). Regular use of the "mini-pill" prevents the release of an egg (ovulation) in about half of the women who use it.While the "mini-pill" is more effective than certain other methods of birth control (e.g., condoms, cervical cap, diaphragm), it is less effective than estrogen/progestin birth control because it does not consistently prevent ovulation. It is usually used by women who cannot take estrogen. For the most effective results, it is very important to take this medication exactly as prescribed.Using this medication does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, gonorrhea).OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.Norgestrel may also be used to help decrease pain and blood loss from a certain menstrual condition (heavy/painful periods due to endometriosis) and to help make your periods more regular.

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