WARNING

Jolessa is a brand name for a type of oral contraceptive that combines hormones to prevent pregnancy. While Jolessa is generally considered safe and effective when used as directed, like any medication, it carries certain risks and potential side effects. Here are some of the risks associated with taking Jolessa:

• Blood clots: Jolessa, like other hormonal contraceptives, increases the risk of blood clot formation. Blood clots can potentially lead to serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). The risk of blood clots is higher for women who smoke, are overweight, have a history of blood clots, or have certain medical conditions.
• Cardiovascular problems: There is a small increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or high blood pressure associated with Jolessa use. Women with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions may face a higher risk.
• Breast cancer: Some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of breast cancer among women who use hormonal contraceptives like Jolessa. However, the absolute risk is considered low, and the relationship between hormonal contraceptives and breast cancer is still not fully understood.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, hormonal contraceptives can cause liver problems, such as liver tumors or liver inflammation. These instances are uncommon, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risk.
• Other side effects: Jolessa may cause various side effects, including nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes, weight gain, and irregular bleeding. These side effects are usually mild and tend to resolve on their own.

It’s important to note that the risks associated with Jolessa should be evaluated in relation to its benefits, such as preventing pregnancy and managing certain menstrual disorders. It’s essential to discuss your personal medical history and any concerns with a healthcare professional before starting or continuing any contraceptive medication. They can provide you with more detailed information and help you make an informed decision about your contraceptive choices.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Jolessa is primarily prescribed as an oral contraceptive, or birth control pill, to prevent pregnancy. It contains a combination of hormones, levonorgestrel (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen), that work together to prevent ovulation and make the cervical mucus thicker, thereby reducing the chances of sperm reaching the egg.

In addition to its contraceptive properties, Jolessa may also be prescribed for other reasons, such as:

• Regulation of menstrual cycles: Jolessa can help regulate irregular or abnormal menstrual cycles by providing a consistent hormonal balance. It can help make periods more regular, reduce heavy bleeding, and alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Treatment of hormonal acne: Jolessa may be prescribed to treat moderate acne in women who desire contraception. The combination of hormones in Jolessa can help regulate the production of sebum (oil) on the skin, which is often a contributing factor to acne development.

How should this medicine be used?

When using Jolessa, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and the guidelines provided with the medication. Here’s a general overview of how Jolessa is typically used:

• Starting Jolessa: Begin taking Jolessa on the first day of your menstrual period. If you start taking it at any other time, additional contraceptive measures (like condoms) may be necessary for the first 7 days.
• Daily Use: Take one pill at the same time every day, with or without food. It’s crucial to maintain a consistent daily schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the medication. Each pack of Jolessa contains 91 pills, which is a 3-month supply.
• Continuous Use: Unlike traditional 28-day birth control pill packs, Jolessa is designed to be taken continuously for 91 days (or approximately 3 months). This means that you will not have a monthly withdrawal bleed. Instead, you may experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting, especially during the first few months of use.
• Starting a New Pack: Once you finish the current pack, start a new pack of Jolessa the next day, without any interruption. It’s important to continue taking the pills consistently, even if you experience breakthrough bleeding.
• Missed Pills: If you accidentally miss a pill, refer to the package insert or consult your doctor for specific instructions. Generally, if you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time. If you miss two or more active pills, additional precautions (such as backup contraception) may be necessary, and you should follow the instructions provided or consult your healthcare provider.

Remember, Jolessa is intended for contraceptive use and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s important to have regular check-ups with your doctor while using Jolessa to monitor your overall health and discuss any concerns or side effects you may experience.

Other uses for this medicine

Other Uses of Jolessa:

• Regulation of Menstrual Cycles: Jolessa can be prescribed to help regulate irregular menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
• Acne Treatment: The hormonal components in Jolessa can sometimes help improve acne symptoms in certain individuals.
• Management of Hormonal Imbalances: In some cases, Jolessa may be prescribed to manage hormonal imbalances or excessive androgen production, which can lead to conditions like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and certain types of alopecia (hair loss).

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Jolessa:

• Contraindications: Jolessa should not be used if you have a history of blood clots, certain types of cancer (such as breast or uterine cancer), liver disease, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. It is important to disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider before starting Jolessa.
• Increased Risk of Blood Clots: Combination hormonal contraceptives, including Jolessa, can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women who smoke, are over the age of 35, or have certain medical conditions that increase clotting risks. Your healthcare provider will assess your individual risk factors before prescribing Jolessa.
• Side Effects and Interactions: Jolessa, like any medication, can cause side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding. It may also interact with other medications, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you are taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Jolessa should not be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can affect the developing fetus and pass into breast milk.

These are just general considerations, and the specific precautions and instructions for using Jolessa may vary depending on individual circumstances. It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or gynecologist who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Jolessa can be taken with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help alleviate any discomfort.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Jolessa. Grapefruit products can interfere with the metabolism of certain medications, potentially affecting the effectiveness of Jolessa.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember. Take the next pill at your regular scheduled time. This may mean taking two pills in one day.
• If you miss two or more active pills in a row:
  • Take the most recently missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the regular scheduled time.
  • Discard any other missed pills.
  • Use a backup method of contraception (e.g., condoms) for the next seven days.
  • If you have had unprotected sex in the preceding seven days, you may need emergency contraception. Consult your healthcare provider for advice.
• It is important to read the specific instructions provided with your medication or consult your healthcare provider for precise guidance on missed doses, as different brands of birth control pills may have variations in recommendations.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like other birth control pills, Jolessa may have potential side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and some individuals may have different reactions. Common side effects of Jolessa can include:

• Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild to moderate nausea, especially when starting the medication. Taking the pill with food or before bed can help alleviate this symptom.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of hormonal contraceptives. They can range from mild to severe.
• Breast tenderness: Some individuals may experience breast tenderness or swelling. This symptom is usually temporary and subsides after a few weeks.
• Breakthrough bleeding: Irregular bleeding or spotting between periods can occur, particularly during the first few months of using Jolessa. If the bleeding is persistent or heavy, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
• Changes in menstrual cycle: Jolessa is designed to regulate the menstrual cycle. As a result, some women may experience changes in the length, duration, or intensity of their periods.
• Weight changes: Some individuals may experience slight weight gain or weight loss while taking Jolessa. However, these changes are typically minimal.
• Mood changes: Hormonal contraceptives have the potential to affect mood in some individuals. They may experience mood swings, irritability, or changes in libido.
• Acne: Jolessa may have an impact on acne. For some individuals, it can help improve their skin condition, while others may experience an increase in acne.
• Other possible side effects: Jolessa, like other hormonal contraceptives, may be associated with other side effects such as changes in appetite, bloating, dizziness, fatigue, or changes in vaginal discharge.

It’s important to remember that serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience severe abdominal pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headaches, or vision changes, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as these symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.

It’s recommended to consult a healthcare provider for personalized information regarding potential side effects and to discuss any concerns you may have before starting or while taking Jolessa or any other medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

1. Storage:
   • Keep Jolessa at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
   • Store it in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat.
   • Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
   • Do not store Jolessa in the bathroom, as the humidity and temperature changes can affect its effectiveness.
2. Disposal:
   • When you have expired or unused Jolessa tablets, do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash.
   • The best way to dispose of Jolessa is to check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider about proper medication disposal programs in your area.
   • These programs often include designated drop-off locations where you can safely dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose or accidentally take more than the prescribed dose of Jolessa, contact emergency services or your local poison control center immediately.
• The signs of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, and other symptoms.
• Be prepared to provide the details of the medication, dosage, and the time it was taken.

What other information should I know?

• Jolessa is primarily used for preventing pregnancy, but it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Additional methods, like condoms, should be used for STI prevention.
• It’s essential to take Jolessa as directed by your healthcare provider. Typically, you take one pill at the same time every day for 91 days.
• Missing a dose or taking the medication inconsistently can decrease its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics and antiseizure drugs, may interact with Jolessa and reduce its effectiveness. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
• Jolessa may have potential side effects, including nausea, headache, breast tenderness, mood changes, and irregular bleeding. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, consult your healthcare provider.

Remember, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions and information tailored to your situation. They can provide you with comprehensive guidance on the storage, disposal, and emergency procedures related to Jolessa.