LOESTRIN FE

Lo Loestrin Fe is an oral contraceptive with a low-dose combination of two female hormones, ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and norethindrone acetate (a progestin), designed to prevent pregnancy.

Birth control pills containing levonorgestrel are associated with a reduced risk of side effects, such as blood clots, compared to pills containing other progestin types.

Indeed, Lo Loestrin Fe stands as the sole low-dose birth control pill available, delivering effective pregnancy prevention with just 10 micrograms of daily estrogen.

Both drugs are effective for their licensed indications. Your doctor will discuss which medication is the most suitable considering your health circumstances and condition which is being treated.

Lo Loestrin Fe is an ultra-low-dose combination birth control pill designed for pregnancy prevention, unique in its provision of 10 micrograms of daily estrogen.

Lo Loestrin Fe comprises 28 tablets organized as follows: 24 blue tablets (active) containing 1 mg norethindrone acetate and 10 mcg ethinyl estradiol, 2 white tablets (active) with 10 mcg ethinyl estradiol, and 2 brown tablets (non-hormonal placebo) containing 75 mg ferrous fumarate.

Common side effects of Lo Loestrin Fe may include changes in the menstrual cycle, heavier periods, cramping during ovulation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), mood changes, weight fluctuations, acne, and unwanted hair growth.

Certain forms of birth control act as barriers to prevent the meeting of sperm and egg, including male and female condoms, cervical caps, sponges, and diaphragms. These methods are often used in conjunction with spermicidals.

The most suitable birth control pill for you depends on your medical history and minimizing risks. For instance, progestin-only pills may be prescribed if you smoke, are nursing, or are over 35 years old.

Women participating in a study reported common side effects such as nausea/vomiting, headaches, spotting or bleeding between periods, painful menstruation, weight changes, breast tenderness, acne, abdominal pain, anxiety, and depression.

Loestrin’s discontinuation was not due to safety or efficacy concerns but rather the inability to meet demand, leading to its production halt.

While no birth control method is entirely free of side effects, the intrauterine device (IUD) appears to have minimal side effects and is a popular choice among women of all ages. An IUD is a small device inserted by your doctor into your uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Lo Loestrin Fe’s limited placebo tablet use over only 2 days results in shorter and lighter bleeding during each menstrual cycle. Additionally, it contains a lower amount of estrogen hormone (ethinyl estradiol) compared to other combination oral contraceptives, making it suitable for those who prefer lower hormone levels for pregnancy prevention.

Certain birth control pills, such as Microgynon, the mini pill, and Loestrin, containing progestins, may contribute to hair thinning. A 2005 study in the International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that 16% of women using progestin-containing IUDs experienced hair loss.

If you experience serious side effects, such as a breast lump, mood changes, unusual vaginal bleeding, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or yellowing of the eyes/skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Lo Loestrin Fe is the sole available low-dose birth control pill offering effective pregnancy prevention with a daily estrogen dose of 10 micrograms.

Loestrin 24 Fe may interact with acetaminophen, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), prednisolone, theophylline, St. John’s wort, antibiotics, seizure medications, barbiturates, or HIV or AIDS medications. Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are using. Loestrin 24 Fe should not be used during pregnancy.

Although Loestrin carries a lower risk of blood clots due to its low estrogen content, it may not be suitable for individuals with a history of blood clots, and it can increase the risk of stroke in certain individuals.

Coming off your birth control is safe and doesn’t require a gradual tapering process. You can simply stop using it ‘cold turkey,’ unlike some other medications like topical steroids.

Commonly reported side effects of birth control include headache, vaginal candidiasis, nausea, menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, mood changes, bacterial vaginitis, acne, irregular uterine bleeding, and weight gain.

Most forms of birth control do not lead to weight changes. Extensive research indicates that birth control methods such as the pill, the ring, the patch, and the IUD do not result in weight gain or weight loss for most individuals.

Lo Loestrin Fe is unlikely to result in long-term side effects, and any side effects experienced during its use should typically subside shortly after discontinuation. However, it is important to note that Lo Loestrin Fe can pose a risk of serious cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks and strokes.

When selecting a birth control pill suitable for addressing hair-related concerns, it’s essential to avoid those that may contribute to or exacerbate hair thinning. Birth control pills associated with potential hair thinning include Microgynon, Plan B, and Loestrin.

Birth control pills containing levonorgestrel appear to carry a lower risk of side effects, such as blood clots, when compared to pills containing other types of progestin.

Lo Loestrin Fe contains the lowest available dose of estrogen but includes a higher number of active tablets (containing hormones) in comparison to most standard monthly combination oral contraceptives.

For individuals with a BMI of 35 kg/m (89-260 lbs), the mean weight is 150 lbs.

In general, weight loss methods remain consistent whether you are using birth control or not. Incorporating exercise and adopting a reduced-calorie diet are key components of weight management. A balanced and nutritionally rich diet, along with proper hydration, is essential.

Apart from preventing pregnancy, birth control pills can also offer benefits such as regulating periods, reducing menstrual bleeding and discomfort, lowering the risk of ovarian cysts, and treating acne. It’s important to note that birth control does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.

Dr. Stanwood explains, ‘Patients often tell me that they think all birth control causes weight gain, but there is only one method, the progestin hormonal injection given every three months, that is linked to weight gain.’

While using Lo Loestrin Fe for pregnancy prevention, most women experience periods lasting LESS THAN 2 DAYS per cycle, on average, and these periods are LIGHTER THAN NORMAL.

Skipping the non-hormonal pills (also known as placebo or reminder pills) in your pill pack is perfectly acceptable. These non-hormonal pills are included solely to help you remember to take your pill daily and initiate the next pack on schedule.

Your period should typically occur during the fourth week of your cycle. Once you’ve consumed the final reminder tablet in the pack, begin a new pack on the following day, even if your period continues or if you do not experience menstruation. If you do not have your period, consult your doctor.

Lo Loestrin Fe consists of 28 tablets organized as follows: 24 blue tablets (active), each containing 1 mg norethindrone acetate and 10 mcg ethinyl estradiol, 2 white tablets (active), each containing 10 mcg ethinyl estradiol, and 2 brown tablets (non-hormonal placebo), each containing 75 mg ferrous fumarate.

Possible side effects of Lo Loestrin Fe may encompass nausea, vomiting, headaches, bloating, breast tenderness, ankle/foot swelling (fluid retention), and weight fluctuations. Vaginal bleeding between periods (spotting) or irregular periods may also occur, especially during the initial months of usage.

It’s entirely normal and safe to skip the hormone-free pills (placebo pills or reminder pills) and take a break from your pill during those days. Remember to commence your next pack on time to maintain pregnancy protection.

How to Take Lo Loestrin Fe: Take one tablet orally at the same time daily, following the order specified on the blister pack. Avoid skipping tablets or exceeding a 24-hour interval between doses. For guidance on missed pills, consult FDA-Approved Patient Labeling.

The final set of pills in most pill packs typically consists of placebos, which are intended as reminders to maintain your daily pill regimen.

Your menstrual pattern may undergo changes when discontinuing birth control pills. Most women experience their periods returning within a few weeks of cessation, although these periods may differ from those experienced while on the pill.

The most frequently reported side effects among women using Lo Loestrin Fe in a study were nausea/vomiting, headaches, spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods, painful menstruation, weight changes, breast tenderness, acne, abdominal pain, anxiety, and depression.

Lo Loestrin Fe differs from other combination oral contraceptives (COCs) as it is classified as an ‘extended regimen’ due to its inclusion of 26 days of active tablets. This surpasses the typical 21-day cycle found in most monthly birth control pills.

While no birth control method directly ’causes’ hair loss, it is advisable for women with hair loss concerns to avoid birth control pills containing high levels of androgens. Loestrin falls into this category.