Ethinylestradiol + Levonorgestrel
Also sold as: Microgynon, Nordette
Prescription neededFamily planning and hormones
Comes as:Tablet
Also sold as: Microgynon, Nordette
One tablet a day at the same time, starting on day 1 of the period, for 21 days, then a 7-day break (or 7 inactive tablets), as the pack says. If you miss a tablet, take it as soon as you remember and ask your doctor or pharmacist about extra protection.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
Medicines that can react with this one.
Carbamazepine makes the pill less effective; a non-hormonal or injectable method is advised.
Griseofulvin makes contraceptive pills less reliable; use condoms as well.
Phenobarbital makes the contraceptive pill less effective; use another method.
Phenytoin makes the pill less effective; a non-hormonal or injectable method is advised.
Rifampicin makes the pill fail; use another contraceptive method during and for 4 weeks after treatment.
Rifampicin makes the pill unreliable; use another method of contraception.
Rifampicin makes the pill unreliable; use another method of contraception.
The pill lowers lamotrigine levels and may reduce seizure control.
Combined contraceptive pills with tranexamic acid may raise the risk of blood clots.