Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel
Drug Uses
Triphasil is an oral contraceptive used for preventing pregnancy or for regulation of menstrual cycle. It contains two active ingredients levonorgestrel and ethinyloestradiol which are similar to hormones that your body naturally produces.
How Taken
Triphasil comes in tablets to take orally. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, the first pill in a package is taken on the first day of the menstrual cycle. Then take one pill a day, the time interval between pills should not be more than 24 hours. It is advised to take the pills at the same time every day (e.g. before bed, with a meal, or first thing in the morning). It is recommended you take your pills with an evening meal or before bed, as this can reduce nausea or headache that you may experience while taking birth control pills. A Triphasil 21 tablet has a three phase preparation. The pills should be taken in the following order- 6 brown pills, 5 white pills and then 10 light yellow pills. After that you have one week break, during which you have your periods and you do not take any pills. On the 8th day start taking you pills again from a new pack.
Warnings/Precautions
Notify your doctor of your medical history, especially if you have- asthma, high blood pressure, kidney, liver or heart disease. Had a stroke or history of jaundice (yellowing skin/eyes), excessive weight gain or fluid retention during menstrual cycle, blood clots, heart attack, seizures, migraine headaches, breast cancer, high level of cholesterol or lipids (fats), diabetes, depression. This drug may cause a patchy darkening of the skin on the face (melasma). Avoid long exposure to sunlight and sun lamps, as this may increase darkening of the skin. Consult your doctor about use of sunscreens and protective clothing. After you stop taking Triphasil it may take a long time before you become pregnant. Oral contraceptives slight increases risk of strokes, blood clots, high blood pressure, heart attacks, gallbladder disease, vision problems, and liver tumors. Avoid smoking during Triphasil treatment as smoking further increases those risks. Ask you doctor or pharmacist to give you the patient labeling which explains these risks in more detail. You may develop vision problems if you are using contact lenses or you are nearsighted. Your contact lenses may also be not as effective. If those problems occur, contact your eye doctor. If you are planning to have a surgery (that includes dental surgery), let your doctor know, that you are taking oral contraceptives. Do not take Triphasil if you are pregnant or likely to become pregnant. If you think you might be pregnant contact your doctor immediately. This drug passes into breast milk and can reduce lactation. It is not recommended to take Triphasil if you are breast feeding as it may harm the baby.
Missed Dose
If you miss one active pill you do not need to use a backup birth control method if you have sexual intercourse. Take the forgotten pill as soon as you remember. The next pill should be taken at a regular schedule–this might mean taking two pills in one day. If you miss more than 1 dose of Triphasil, contact your doctor for further instructions. You may need to use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms). If you are not sure about how to handle Missed Doses of Triphasil, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms) until you talk with your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the Possible Side Effects of Triphasil are- dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, stomach upset, bloating, nausea, severe depression, groin or calf pain, sudden severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, lumps in the breast, weakness or tingling in the arms/legs, yellowing of the eyes or skin. If you experience any of these or other conditions that bother you, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Storage
Store this medication at room temperature 15–30°C (59–86°F). Keep away from children and excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Overdose
Serious ill effects have not been reported, however, if overdose is suspected seek medical attention immediately. Some of the symptoms of overdose are- nausea, vomiting, withdrawal bleeding may occur in females.
More Information
Before prescribing birth control pills, you will have to be examined by your doctor. Tell your doctor your medical history. You should be reexamined at least once a year. Do not miss appointments with your healthcare provider, as it is best to determine any side effects of oral contraceptive at an early stage. This drug has to be used only for the purpose it has been prescribed. Contraceptive pills do not protect from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Disclaimer
This is only general information, it does not cover all directions, drug integrations or precautions. You should not rely on it for any purpose, it does not contain any specific instructions for a particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information. We`re not responsible for any damage.