Desogen (generically known as ethinyl estradiol and desogethrel) is a type of birth control pill that contains a combination of female hormones that prevent the ovulatory release of eggs. Desogen makes it harder for sperm to reach the uterus by changing a woman’s cervical mucus, in addition to making it harder for the fertilized egg to attach to the uterus by altering the uterine lining.
How to Use Desogen
Desogen should always be administered the precise way prescribed by your doctor, with additional directional support on the prescription label. One should not take Desogen in larger or smaller doses than initially advised. While taking Desogen, it is important that you visit your doctor regularly.
The first use of Desogen should be taken on the first day of your period or the first Sunday after your period begins. When you first start Desogen, back-up birth control may be necessary, such as spermicide or a condom. One pill should be taken every 24 hours, until the pill pack runs out and a new one needs to be started. The Desogen packet contains 28 pills for 28 days, and seven “reminder” pills to keep you on your regular cycle.
If you do not follow these daily instructions, you may run the risk of becoming pregnant. Use back-up birth control when sick with severe vomiting or diarrhea. If you need stop using this medication for a short period of time—for instance, because of surgery or medical tests—tell your doctor or surgeon so that they know you are using Desogen.
During the first 3 month, you may experience breakthrough bleeding, and you tell your doctor if the bleeding continues for an extended period of time or is especially heavy.
Do not use Desogen if you are pregnant or have recently had a baby.
Patients should be counseled that this product does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually trans-mitted diseases.
Emergency help should be contacted immediately if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to Desogen, including: hives; difficulty breathing; and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. However, common side effects are to be expected, and may include: mild nausea (especially when you first start taking the medication), vomiting, boating, stomach cramps, breast tenderness, and many others.
Do not use Desogen if you are pregnant or have recently had a baby.
Patients should be counseled that this product does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually trans-mitted diseases.
References
Desogen. (2014). Retrieved from www.rxlist.com: http://www.rxlist.com/desogen-drug.htm
What is Desogen? (2000-2014). Retrieved from www.drugs.com: http://www.drugs.com/desogen.html
