WARNING

Demulen is a combined oral contraceptive pill that contains ethinyl estradiol and ethynodiol diacetate. Like any medication, Demulen can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of Demulen may include:

• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea, particularly when they first start taking Demulen. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime may help reduce this side effect.
• Headaches: Headaches, including migraines, can occur as a side effect of Demulen. If headaches become severe or persistent, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider.
• Breast Tenderness: Some people may notice breast tenderness or swelling while taking Demulen. This side effect typically resolves on its own but can be bothersome for some individuals.
• Changes in Menstrual Flow: Demulen may cause changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, including lighter periods, spotting between periods, or irregular bleeding. These changes usually improve with continued use of the pill.
• Weight Changes: Some individuals may experience weight changes while taking Demulen. This can include weight gain or weight loss. It’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, to manage weight while taking the pill.
• Mood Changes: Mood swings, irritability, or changes in mood can occur as a side effect of Demulen. These symptoms are usually mild but should be monitored, especially if they persist or worsen.
• Decreased Libido: Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire while taking Demulen. This side effect is relatively rare but can occur.
• Changes in Vaginal Discharge: Demulen may cause changes in vaginal discharge, including increased or decreased lubrication. These changes are typically mild and temporary.
• Skin Changes: Some people may experience changes in their skin, such as acne or melasma (darkening of the skin), while taking Demulen. These changes are usually mild and may improve with continued use of the pill.

It’s essential to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on managing symptoms or adjusting your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, certain side effects may indicate a more serious problem, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent symptoms while taking Demulen.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Demulen is primarily prescribed as an oral contraceptive, commonly known as a birth control pill. It contains a combination of two hormones: ethinyl estradiol and ethynodiol diacetate. These hormones work together to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries), thickening cervical mucus (which makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg), and thinning the uterine lining (making it less receptive to implantation).

In addition to preventing pregnancy, Demulen may also be prescribed for other medical conditions, such as:

• Regulating Menstrual Cycles: Demulen can help regulate menstrual cycles, making periods more predictable and reducing symptoms of irregular bleeding.
• Treating Acne: Some individuals may find that Demulen helps improve acne by regulating hormone levels that can contribute to breakouts.
• Treating Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Demulen may be used to alleviate symptoms of PMDD, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by mood swings, irritability, and other emotional and physical symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?

Demulen is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing two hormones: ethinyl estradiol and ethynodiol diacetate. It is typically taken once daily by mouth to prevent pregnancy. Here’s how Demulen should be used:

• Starting Demulen: Your healthcare provider will instruct you on when to start taking Demulen. It’s commonly started on the first day of your menstrual period (Day 1 Start) or on the first Sunday after your period starts (Sunday Start). Following the prescribed starting method is essential to ensure maximum effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
• Daily Use: Take one tablet of Demulen orally at the same time each day. It’s important to establish a routine and take the pill consistently to maintain its effectiveness. You can take Demulen with or without food, but it’s advisable to take it with water to aid swallowing.
• Sequential Use: Demulen packs typically contain 21 active tablets (containing hormones) and 7 inactive tablets (placebos or “reminder” pills). Take one active tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by one inactive tablet daily for the next 7 days. This 28-day cycle is then repeated.
• Menstrual Periods: You may experience withdrawal bleeding (similar to a period) during the week of inactive pills. This bleeding is generally lighter and shorter than a regular period.
• Continuous Use: Some healthcare providers may prescribe continuous use of Demulen, where you skip the inactive pills and start a new pack immediately after finishing the active pills from the previous pack. This can result in fewer or no menstrual periods, but it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for this method.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose of Demulen, follow the instructions provided with the medication or consult your healthcare provider for guidance. Generally, if you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular schedule. If you miss two or more active pills, refer to the package insert or consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions.
• Backup Contraception: It’s advisable to use backup contraception, such as condoms, during the first cycle of Demulen use or if you miss doses, particularly if you have sex during the first week of starting the pill.
• Follow-up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your health, discuss any concerns or side effects, and ensure that Demulen is the right contraceptive option for you.

It’s essential to read the medication guide provided with Demulen and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely for optimal effectiveness and safety. If you have any questions or concerns about using Demulen, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Aside from its primary use as a contraceptive, Demulen may be prescribed for other medical conditions such as regulating menstrual cycles, treating acne, and managing symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when taking Demulen:

• Medical History: Before starting Demulen, it’s important to provide a comprehensive medical history to your healthcare provider, including any previous or existing medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, or a history of certain cancers. Certain medical conditions may make it unsafe to take Demulen, or special monitoring may be required.
• Current Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Demulen and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes while taking Demulen increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, such as blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. It’s generally advised to avoid smoking while using Demulen, especially if you are over the age of 35.
• Age: Demulen may not be suitable for all age groups. It’s typically not recommended for use in women who have not yet started menstruating or in women who have reached menopause.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Demulen should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Demulen, you should stop taking it immediately and consult your healthcare provider. Additionally, Demulen may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. It’s generally recommended to use alternative forms of contraception while breastfeeding.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important while taking Demulen to monitor for any potential side effects or complications. Your healthcare provider may also perform periodic evaluations to assess the need for continued use of the medication.
• Emergency Contraception: Demulen should not be relied upon as a form of emergency contraception. If you have had unprotected sex or experienced a contraceptive failure, you should speak with your healthcare provider about emergency contraception options.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about using Demulen safely and effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Demulen, as it may interact with the medication and affect its effectiveness.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed One Pill: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time. You do not need to use backup contraception unless you missed more than one active pill in a row.
• Missed Two or More Pills: If you miss two or more active pills in a row during the first or second week of your pack, take two pills on the day you remember and two pills the next day, then continue taking one pill a day until you finish the pack. Use backup contraception for the next seven days. If you miss two or more active pills in a row during the third week of your pack, discard the rest of the pack and start a new pack immediately. Use backup contraception for the next seven days.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Demulen, like other hormonal contraceptives, can cause side effects in some individuals. These side effects can vary in severity and may not affect everyone who takes the medication. Common side effects of Demulen may include:

• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea, particularly when first starting Demulen. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime may help reduce this side effect.
• Headaches: Headaches, including migraines, can occur as a side effect of Demulen. If headaches become severe or persistent, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider.
• Breast Tenderness: Some people may notice breast tenderness or swelling while taking Demulen. This side effect typically resolves on its own but can be bothersome for some individuals.
• Changes in Menstrual Flow: Demulen may cause changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, including lighter periods, spotting between periods, or irregular bleeding. These changes usually improve with continued use of the pill.
• Weight Changes: Some individuals may experience weight changes while taking Demulen. This can include weight gain or weight loss. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, may help manage weight while taking the pill.
• Mood Changes: Mood swings, irritability, or changes in mood can occur as a side effect of Demulen. These symptoms are usually mild but should be monitored, especially if they persist or worsen.
• Decreased Libido: Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire while taking Demulen. This side effect is relatively rare but can occur.
• Changes in Vaginal Discharge: Demulen may cause changes in vaginal discharge, including increased or decreased lubrication. These changes are typically mild and temporary.
• Skin Changes: Some people may experience changes in their skin, such as acne or melasma (darkening of the skin), while taking Demulen. These changes are usually mild and may improve with continued use of the pill.

It’s important to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on managing symptoms or adjusting your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, certain side effects may indicate a more serious problem, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent symptoms while taking Demulen.

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

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Demulen, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure its effectiveness and prevent accidental ingestion by others:

Storage:

• Keep Demulen in its original packaging or container to protect it from light and moisture.
• Store Demulen at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Avoid storing Demulen in the bathroom or kitchen, where it may be exposed to moisture and temperature fluctuations.
• Keep Demulen out of reach of children and pets, as accidental ingestion can be harmful.

Disposal:

• If you no longer need Demulen or it has expired, it should be disposed of properly.
• Do not flush Demulen down the toilet or pour it down the drain, as it may contaminate water sources.
• Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidelines on how to dispose of unused or expired medications. Many pharmacies offer medication take-back programs or can provide guidance on safe disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose of Demulen, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, or other signs of hormonal imbalance.
• Provide as much information as possible about the amount of medication ingested and any symptoms experienced to healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Demulen does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. It is essential to use condoms or other barrier methods of contraception to reduce the risk of STIs.
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics and anticonvulsants, may interact with Demulen and reduce its effectiveness. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
• Demulen may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in individuals with certain risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or a history of blood clots. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots and seek medical attention if necessary.
• It’s essential to take Demulen consistently and at the same time each day to maximize its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Missing doses or taking them inconsistently can increase the risk of pregnancy.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about the storage, disposal, or use of Demulen.