WARNING

Camrese Lo is a combination birth control pill that contains hormones like ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. Like any medication, it carries certain risks. Some potential risks of taking Camrese Lo include:

• Blood clots: Birth control pills increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
• Cardiovascular issues: There’s a slight increase in the risk of heart attack and stroke associated with birth control pills, particularly in women who smoke or have other cardiovascular risk factors.
• High blood pressure: Birth control pills can sometimes raise blood pressure, which may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.
• Cancer risk: While the pill may lower the risk of certain cancers like ovarian and endometrial cancer, it may slightly increase the risk of breast and cervical cancer in some women.
• Other side effects: Other potential side effects of Camrese Lo may include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, mood changes, and changes in libido.

It’s essential to discuss these risks with a healthcare provider before starting any birth control pill. They can help weigh the benefits and risks based on individual health factors and medical history.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Camrese Lo is prescribed primarily as a contraceptive, to prevent pregnancy. It’s a combination birth control pill containing two hormones: ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. These hormones work together to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg, and thin the uterine lining to make it less receptive to a fertilized egg.

How should this medicine be used?

Camrese Lo is a combination birth control pill that should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Here are general guidelines on how Camrese Lo should be used:

• Start on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period starts: Typically, Camrese Lo is started on the first day of your menstrual period. However, it can also be started on the first Sunday after your period begins. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on when to start.
• Take one pill daily at the same time: Take one pill orally every day, at the same time each day, with or without food. It’s essential to maintain a consistent schedule to maximize effectiveness.
• Follow the pill order on the package: Camrese Lo comes in a pack with 28 pills. The pills are color-coded to indicate different hormone levels. Take the pills in the order specified on the package, starting with the first pill and proceeding through the pack.
• Continue taking the pills daily: Even during your menstrual period, continue taking one pill every day. This helps maintain contraceptive effectiveness.
• If you miss a pill: If you miss a pill, take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. If you miss more than one pill, refer to the medication guide provided with Camrese Lo for instructions. Additional contraceptive measures like condoms may be necessary if multiple pills are missed.
• Start a new pack immediately after finishing the current pack: After finishing all 28 pills in the pack, start a new pack the next day without taking a break. Do not skip days between packs.
• Regular check-ups: It’s important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider while taking Camrese Lo to monitor your health and discuss any concerns or side effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Camrese Lo for specific usage guidelines and precautions. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Camrese Lo, consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

• Menstrual cycle regulation: Some women may use Camrese Lo to regulate their menstrual cycles, reducing symptoms such as irregular bleeding, heavy periods, or painful periods.
• Treatment of acne: Birth control pills like Camrese Lo can sometimes help improve acne by regulating hormone levels.
• Treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Camrese Lo may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular periods and excess hair growth, by regulating hormone levels.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when taking Camrese Lo, including:

• Smoking: Women over 35 who smoke should generally avoid taking birth control pills like Camrese Lo, as it may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects.
• Medical history: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have or have had, including blood clots, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, and breast or reproductive system cancers.
• Interactions with other medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and antifungal drugs, may interact with Camrese Lo, reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy: Camrese Lo should not be used during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while taking Camrese Lo, stop taking the medication and contact a healthcare provider.
• Breastfeeding: Birth control pills like Camrese Lo may affect breast milk production. Discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare provider if breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider and read the medication guide provided with Camrese Lo for specific precautions and recommendations.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Camrese Lo. However, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is recommended for overall health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Continue taking the pills at the regular time. Use backup contraception, such as condoms, if you have unprotected intercourse within the next seven days.
• Follow the specific instructions provided in the package insert or consult your healthcare provider. Backup contraception may be needed, and additional instructions may vary depending on when the missed pills occurred in your cycle.
• If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Camrese Lo, like other birth control pills, can cause side effects in some individuals. These side effects may vary in severity and frequency among users. Common side effects of Camrese Lo may include:

• Nausea: Some women may experience nausea, especially when starting the medication or during the first few cycles. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime may help alleviate this symptom.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of birth control pills, including Camrese Lo. These headaches may range from mild to severe.
• Breast tenderness: Some women may experience breast tenderness or enlargement while taking Camrese Lo. This side effect usually resolves with continued use.
• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding: Irregular bleeding between periods, also known as spotting or breakthrough bleeding, may occur, especially during the first few months of using Camrese Lo.
• Mood changes: Birth control pills can sometimes affect mood, leading to symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, or depression.
• Weight changes: Some women may experience weight changes while taking Camrese Lo, although the evidence linking birth control pills to weight gain is inconclusive.
• Changes in libido: Birth control pills may affect libido (sex drive) in some individuals, either increasing or decreasing sexual desire.
• Skin changes: While birth control pills can improve acne for some women, others may experience skin changes such as acne flare-ups or skin discoloration.
• Other side effects: Other less common side effects of Camrese Lo may include bloating, vaginal discharge, changes in menstrual flow, and allergic reactions.

It’s important to note that not all users will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. If you experience severe or persistent side effects while taking Camrese Lo, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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

Storage and disposal:

• Storage: Store Camrese Lo at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of Camrese Lo pills properly by following any specific instructions provided with the medication or recommended by your pharmacist. Do not flush them down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your local guidelines for proper medication disposal, such as through a drug take-back program.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Camrese Lo, contact your healthcare provider, poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.

What other information should I know?

• Regular check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider while taking Camrese Lo to monitor your health and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Effectiveness: Camrese Lo is most effective when taken consistently and at the same time each day. Missing doses or taking them inconsistently may decrease its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
• Medical conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have or have had, including blood clots, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, and breast or reproductive system cancers.
• Medication interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Camrese Lo and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Camrese Lo should not be used during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while taking Camrese Lo, stop taking the medication and contact your healthcare provider. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking Camrese Lo while breastfeeding with your healthcare provider.
• Follow instructions: Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and read the medication guide provided with Camrese Lo for specific usage guidelines, precautions, and recommendations.

If you have any questions or concerns about Camrese Lo or its use, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.