WARNING

Gianvi is a combination oral contraceptive pill that contains synthetic forms of estrogen and progestin hormones. Like any medication, it comes with potential risks and side effects. Here are some of the risks associated with taking Gianvi:

• Blood Clots: One of the most serious risks associated with hormonal contraceptives like Gianvi is an increased risk of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism). This risk is higher, particularly in women who smoke, are over 35 years old, or have a history of blood clotting disorders.
• Cardiovascular Complications: Hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in women with underlying cardiovascular conditions or risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
• Breast Cancer: Some studies suggest a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer among women who use hormonal contraceptives like Gianvi, particularly with long-term use.
• Liver Problems: Rarely, hormonal contraceptives can cause liver problems, including liver tumors or benign liver masses. These risks are higher in women with a history of liver disease or certain genetic conditions.
• Other Side Effects: Common side effects of Gianvi include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, mood changes, and irregular bleeding. Some women may also experience weight changes, decreased libido, or changes in vaginal discharge.

It’s essential to discuss these risks and any personal medical history with a healthcare provider before starting Gianvi or any other hormonal contraceptive. Additionally, it’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions for use to minimize potential risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Good Sense Tussin is a medication typically prescribed for relieving cough symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, or other respiratory infections. It contains the active ingredient dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant.

Dextromethorphan works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain, thus reducing the urge to cough. It is commonly used to provide temporary relief from coughing associated with various respiratory conditions.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for using such medications:

Gianvi is a combination oral contraceptive pill, typically prescribed to prevent pregnancy. It contains synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and progestin. Proper usage of Gianvi is essential for its effectiveness. Here’s how it should be used:

• Start Date: Gianvi is usually started on the first day of your menstrual period or on the Sunday after your period starts. If started on the first day of your period, it provides immediate protection against pregnancy. If started on a Sunday, additional contraceptive methods may be needed for the first seven days.
• Daily Usage: Take one pill of Gianvi at the same time every day, with or without food. It’s important to take the pills in the correct order, as indicated on the packaging, to maintain effectiveness.
• Active and Inactive Pills: Each pack of Gianvi contains 28 pills: 24 active pills containing hormones and 4 inactive pills (placebos). Take one active pill each day for 24 days, followed by one inactive pill each day for the remaining four days. This helps maintain the habit of taking a pill daily and ensures you start a new pack on time.
• Continuous Use: After finishing one pack, start the next pack immediately without a break. This helps ensure continuous protection against pregnancy.
• Missing Pills: If you miss a pill, follow the instructions provided with the medication. Generally, if you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the regular time. If you miss two active pills in a row, take two pills on the day you remember and two pills the next day, and use additional contraceptive methods for the next seven days.
• Consultation: It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Gianvi and to attend regular check-ups. They can provide personalized guidance and monitor for any potential side effects or complications.

Following these instructions carefully can help maximize the effectiveness of Gianvi in preventing pregnancy. If you have any questions or concerns about using Gianvi, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

These can include:

• Regulating Menstrual Cycles: Gianvi may be prescribed to help regulate irregular menstrual cycles, making periods more predictable.
• Reducing Menstrual Cramps: Some individuals may find relief from severe menstrual cramps when using Gianvi.
• Treating Acne: Gianvi, like other combination oral contraceptives, may be prescribed to help manage acne in some individuals by regulating hormone levels.
• Preventing Ovarian Cysts: Gianvi may help reduce the risk of developing ovarian cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can form on the ovaries.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Gianvi to ensure safety and effectiveness. Here are some important considerations:

• Medical History: Before starting Gianvi, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any current medications, allergies, or past medical conditions. Certain conditions such as blood clots, heart problems, liver disease, and hormone-related cancers may require special monitoring or alternative contraceptive methods.
• Smoking: Smoking while using Gianvi increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, including blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. If you smoke, discuss your options with your healthcare provider.
• Age: Gianvi is not recommended for women over 35 who smoke due to increased risks of cardiovascular complications. Older women may also have increased risks of certain side effects, so careful monitoring is necessary.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Some medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, antiseizure drugs, and herbal supplements, may reduce the effectiveness of Gianvi or increase the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy: Gianvi should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Gianvi, stop taking it and consult your healthcare provider.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider while using Gianvi to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can safely and effectively use Gianvi for its intended purposes. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitoring.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with taking Gianvi. However, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is advisable for overall health and well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Gianvi:

• If you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Continue taking one pill per day at the usual time, even if it means taking two pills on the same day. No backup contraception is needed.
• If you miss two or more active pills in a row, take the last missed pill as soon as you remember, then continue taking one pill per day at the usual time. Use backup contraception, such as condoms or abstain from sex, for the next seven days. If you had unprotected sex during the time you missed pills, consider emergency contraception if appropriate.
• If you miss any of the inactive reminder pills (placebos), discard them and continue taking one active pill per day as scheduled. There is no need for backup contraception during the placebo pill week.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gianvi, like other combination oral contraceptive pills, can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach is a common side effect, especially when first starting Gianvi. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime may help alleviate this.
• Headaches: Some individuals may experience headaches or migraines while taking Gianvi. If headaches become severe or frequent, consult a healthcare provider.
• Breast Tenderness: The breasts may feel swollen, sensitive, or tender, especially during the first few months of taking Gianvi.
• Irregular Bleeding: Spotting or breakthrough bleeding between periods may occur, particularly during the first few months of use. This usually resolves as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes.
• Mood Changes: Some individuals may experience changes in mood, such as mood swings, irritability, or depression.
• Weight Changes: While uncommon, some individuals may experience weight gain or weight loss while taking Gianvi.
• Decreased Libido: A decrease in sexual desire or interest may occur in some individuals.
• Vaginal Discharge: Changes in vaginal discharge, such as increased or decreased lubrication, may occur.
• Skin Changes: Gianvi may affect the skin, leading to changes such as acne flare-ups or improvement in acne, depending on the individual.
• Other Potential Side Effects: Less common side effects of Gianvi may include changes in appetite, changes in menstrual flow, bloating, dizziness, fatigue, or changes in hair growth.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience different or no side effects at all while taking Gianvi. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, or if you have concerns about any symptoms you’re experiencing, consult your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and determine whether Gianvi is the right contraceptive option for you.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Store Gianvi at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep Gianvi out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store Gianvi in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink where it may be exposed to moisture.
• Dispose of expired or unused Gianvi pills properly by following local guidelines for medication disposal. Do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose of Gianvi, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, or other unusual symptoms. It’s essential to seek medical help promptly if you suspect an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Gianvi does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you’re at risk of STIs, consider using additional barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms.
• Gianvi may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, antiseizure drugs, and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Gianvi may affect laboratory test results. Inform laboratory personnel and healthcare providers that you are taking Gianvi if you need to undergo any medical tests.
• Some individuals may experience changes in vision while taking Gianvi. If you experience sudden changes in vision or other visual disturbances, seek medical attention promptly.
• Gianvi may increase the risk of blood clots, particularly in women with certain risk factors. It’s essential to discuss your individual risk factors with your healthcare provider before starting Gianvi.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication packaging when taking Gianvi. If you have any questions or concerns about Gianvi or its usage, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.