Desogestrel

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular combinations:

Marvelon, Mercilon

Drug group:

Female sex hormone and oral contraceptive

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Desogestrel is a synthetic form of the natural female sex hormone progesterone, and is used in:

• Progestogen-only pill (POP) - especially useful as a contraceptive in women who do not tolerate oestrogens or are breast-feeding
• Combined oral contraceptive (COC) – in combination with ethinylestradiol (oestrogen)

How does it work?

• Thickens the mucus at the neck of the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to enter
• Prevents ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary)
• Changes the quality of the endometrium (lining of the uterus), preventing implantation of a fertilized egg

How should it be used?

It is important not to miss a dose, and to take your pill at the same time each day

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

One tablet daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within a few hours
                         

How long will the effects last?

24 hours

When should I stop using it?

Contraception: can safely be stopped when no longer needed; treatment of menstrual symptoms: consult your doctor before stopping the drug.
              

Is it safe for prolonged use?

There is a slightly higher risk of breast cancer with long-term use, you may need regular breast examinations or mammograms, and blood pressure checks.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: irregular vaginal bleeding (slight spotting, heavier bleeding, or no bleeding at all) with POP; nausea, vomiting, headache, breast discomfort/tenderness, weight changes, mood changes, significant risk of venous thrombosis
• Less common: changes in skin pigmentation
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: excessive bleeding

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver problems, diabetes, jaundice, previous ectopic pregnancy, unexplained abnormal vaginal bleeding, epilepsy/seizures, previous venous thrombosis/stroke
• Other medicines: oral anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, antihypertensives, antidiabetics, anti-TB drugs, antidepressants, St John’s wort
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not prescribed in pregnancy, may cause foetal defects
• Children: Not prescribed
• Over 60: Not prescribed
• Driving and hazardous work: No known problems
• Alcohol: No known problems