Alesse: Reliable Oral Contraception with Hormonal Acne Control
| Product dosage: 0.18mg | |||
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Synonyms | |||
Alesse is a combination oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy while offering the added benefit of improving moderate acne in women who choose this method for birth control. It contains a balanced formulation of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, hormones that work synergistically to inhibit ovulation, alter cervical mucus, and regulate the endometrial lining. Trusted by healthcare providers, Alesse provides effective, reversible contraception with a well-established safety profile when used as directed.
Features
- Contains 0.10 mg levonorgestrel and 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol per active tablet
- 21-day active pill regimen followed by a 7-day placebo interval
- Monophasic formulation ensuring consistent hormone levels throughout the cycle
- Small, easy-to-swallow tablets with clear packaging for dose tracking
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality control standards
Benefits
- Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly
- Reduces the severity of moderate acne by regulating sebum production
- May result in lighter, more regular, and less painful menstrual periods
- Offers non-contraceptive benefits including decreased risk of ovarian cysts
- Provides reversible contraception without long-term commitment
- Empowers women with convenient, daily control over reproductive health
Common use
Alesse is primarily prescribed for the prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive age. It is also approved for the treatment of moderate acne in women at least 15 years old who have no known contraindications to hormonal contraception, have achieved menarche, desire oral contraception, and plan to use the medication for at least 6 months. Many obstetrician-gynecologists and primary care providers consider combination oral contraceptives like Alesse a first-line option for both contraception and acne management in appropriate candidates.
Dosage and direction
Take one tablet daily at approximately the same time each day, preferably with food or at bedtime to minimize potential nausea. Begin taking Alesse on either the first day of menstrual bleeding (Day 1 start) or on the first Sunday after menstruation begins (Sunday start). Follow the 21 active tablets with 7 placebo tablets, during which withdrawal bleeding typically occurs. For Sunday starters, use a non-hormonal backup contraceptive method for the first 7 days of the initial cycle. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the package insert.
Precautions
- Notify your healthcare provider before starting Alesse if you smoke, as cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects
- Regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended during treatment
- This product does not protect against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases
- Use with caution in patients with conditions that might be aggravated by fluid retention
- May cause glucose intolerance—monitor blood glucose carefully in diabetic patients
- Decreased efficacy may occur with gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting or diarrhea
Contraindications
- History of or current thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders
- Known or suspected carcinoma of the breast or reproductive organs
- Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding
- History of or current cerebrovascular or coronary artery disease
- Liver tumors, active liver disease, or history of cholestatic jaundice with prior pill use
- Known or suspected pregnancy
- Hypersensitivity to any component of Alesse
- Heavy smokers (15 or more cigarettes per day) over age 35
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, and weight changes. These often diminish after the first few cycles. Less frequent but more serious potential adverse reactions include thrombophlebitis, arterial thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral thrombosis, hypertension, gallbladder disease, and hepatic adenomas. Benign liver tumors, though rare, may rupture and cause fatal intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Some studies report increased relative risk of developing blood clots compared to non-users.
Drug interaction
Alesse’s effectiveness may be reduced by concomitant use with antibiotics (particularly rifampin), anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital), antifungals (griseofulvin), and certain HIV medications. St John’s Wort may also decrease contraceptive efficacy. Oral contraceptives may alter the effectiveness of other medications, including cyclosporine, theophylline, and some benzodiazepines. Always inform healthcare providers of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Missed dose
If one active tablet is missed (24-48 hours late), take it as soon as remembered and continue subsequent tablets at the regular time. If two consecutive active tablets are missed in the first two weeks, take two tablets as soon as remembered plus two tablets the next day, then resume regular schedule using backup contraception for 7 days. If two tablets are missed in the third week or three or more consecutive tablets are missed at any time, discard the current pack and start a new pack the same day, using backup contraception for 7 days. Consult package insert or your healthcare provider for specific guidance based on your situation.
Overdose
Serious ill effects have not been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of oral contraceptives. Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding in females. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in a dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication. Individual results may vary. The full prescribing information should be reviewed before initiating therapy with Alesse.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate high patient satisfaction with Alesse, particularly regarding cycle regulation and acne improvement. Many users report reliable contraception with minimal side effects after the initial adjustment period. Healthcare providers frequently prescribe Alesse as a well-tolerated option among combination oral contraceptives. Real-world evidence supports its effectiveness and safety profile in appropriate patient populations when used as directed under medical supervision.