Contraceptive De

What it is and how it works

A monophasic combined oral contraceptive containing the third-generation progestogen desogestrel with ethinylestradiol (typically 150 micrograms/30 micrograms). It suppresses gonadotrophin release and ovulation, thickens cervical mucus and alters the endometrium.

Indications

Oral contraception.

Dosage and administration (summary)

One tablet daily at about the same time for 21 days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval (or as directed by the specific pack).

Contraindications

Current or past venous or arterial thromboembolism, known thrombophilia, migraine with aura, severe or multiple cardiovascular risk factors (including smoking over 35 years), severe hepatic disease or liver tumours, known or suspected sex-steroid-dependent malignancy, and undiagnosed vaginal bleeding.

Warnings and precautions

Combined hormonal contraceptives increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, and desogestrel-containing products carry a higher risk than levonorgestrel-containing ones. Blood pressure should be checked before and during use. Efficacy may be reduced by vomiting, diarrhoea and enzyme-inducing drugs.

Pregnancy

Not indicated in pregnancy; discontinue if pregnancy occurs.

Storage and supply

Store below 25 °C in the original package.

Source: reference summary prepared from the EU SmPC/EPAR, BNF and WHO Model Formulary. The approved product information in Iran governs.