Previfem is oral combination contraceptive that contains ethinyl estradiol (estrogen) and norgestimate (progesterone).
Contents:
Indications for use
Previfem is used for the treatment of menopause and severe acne, prevention of pregnancy and other medical conditions.
Mechanism of action
Ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate inhibit ovulation (release of eggs from the ovary). This combination causes changes in your cervical mucus and uterus lining, which makes it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus and difficult for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
Precautions and mode of application
The pack contains 28 pills (21 active and 7 inert). Take 1 pill daily for 28 days in a row. Active tablets are blue are taken from day 1 to day 21), inert tablets are light-green and are taken from day 22 to day 28. Each active tablets contains norgestimate 0.25mg and ethinyl estradiol 0.035mg. Inert pills contain no medication.
Before you start taking these birth control pills, tell your doctor about the drugs you are currently taking, food supplements (vitamins, natural supplements), allergic reactions, existing diseases and the current state of health (pregnancy, upcoming operation, etc.). Side effects of the drug may be more intensive in a certain state of your body. Take the drug as directed by your doctor or follow the instructions for use supplied with the drug. Tell your doctor if you notice any change or deterioration in your condition.
Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- arrhythmia;
- age over 35 years;
- diabetes;
- if you smoke;
- if you have diabetes, obesity, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, mild hypertension, migraine, mental illness or gallbladder disease.
Important: Previfem does not protect from sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV.
Contraindications
Previfem birth control pills are contraindicated in the following conditions:
- hypersensitivity to norgestimate or ethinyl estradiol;
- liver disease
- postoperative thromboembolism
- a history of jaundice during a previous pregnancy
- coronary and cerebrovascular disease
- oncoming basic operations
- pregnancy
- hyperlipidemia
Side effects
See a list of possible side effects that can be caused by Previfem pills. This list is not full. Some of these side effects occur extremely rarely but have serious consequences. If you notice any adverse reaction after taking these hormonal tablets, contact your doctor immediately, especially if you observe them for a long time:
- acne;
- amenorrhea;
- anaphylactic reaction;
- cervical erosion;
- cholestatic jaundice;
- colitis;
- dizziness;
- dropsy;
- nausea;
- vomiting
If you experience any side effects not listed above, visit your doctor for advice.
Interactions
If you mix Previfem with other drugs or supplements, the effectiveness of contraception may change. Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines, vitamins and food supplements that you are using. Your doctor will be able to make the correct plan for taking the pills, which will help avoid negative interactions. The contraceptive can interact with the following drugs and products:
- Modafinil;
- Griseofulvin;
- Aminoglutethimide;
- Anastrozole;
- Barbiturates;
- Dicoumarol;
- Exemestane;
- Felbamate;
- Hydrocortisone;
- Carbamazepine
Frequently asked questions
Can Previfem be used during menopause and for pregnancy prevention?
Yes, menopause and pregnancy prevention are the most popular indications for using these tablets. Do not use this preparation during menopause and pregnancy prevention without consulting your doctor.
Can I manage heavy industrial equipment while taking these pills?
If you feel drowsy, dizzy, hypotensive, or have a headache when taking the drug, you need to give up driving and heavy industrial equipment. Doctors recommend not to mix Previfem with alcohol, because alcohol significantly may intensify side effects. Please check the reaction of your body when you take this contraceptive. Consult your doctor for advice on your body’s characteristics and overall health.
Does Previfem cause addiction?
These pills are not addictive. However, it’s not recommended to use this drug without consulting your doctor.
What if I miss a dose?
If you missed an active pill, take it as soon as possible. If the time of taking the next dose is approaching, you can skip the previous dose and continue to follow your usual schedule of taking pills. Do not take an additional pill to compensate for a missed one. If you encounter this situation regularly, think about the possibility of setting reminders or ask one of your family members to follow the schedule. Be sure to contact your doctor to adjust the schedule to compensate for a missed dose (in case you missed a significant number of days).
Other important information
Overdose
Do not exceed the recommended dose of Previfem. Excessive use of the drug will not provide you a better protection from pregnancy but will cause poisoning and serious side effects. If you have an overdose of these hormonal pills, call the ambulance, visit the nearest hospital. Be sure to bring the packaging with you in order to facilitate the treatment.
Storage
Store the medication at room temperature, in a cool place and away from direct sunlight. Do not expose drugs to freezing. Keep it away from animals and children.
Use of Previfem after the expiration date
Even a single Previfem pill with an expired shelf life can lead to serious consequences. Be sure to consult your doctor if you feel bad. In addition, the product with an expired shelf life may lose its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. To ensure your own safety, it is extremely important to refrain from taking hormonal pills that have expired.