WARNING

Taking MonoNessa, like any hormonal contraceptive, comes with certain risks and potential side effects. It’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting the medication. Some of the risks associated with taking MonoNessa include:

• Blood Clots: There is a small but increased risk of developing blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), when using combination oral contraceptives like MonoNessa.
• Cardiovascular Risks: Smoking while taking MonoNessa increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, including heart attacks and strokes. Women over 35 who smoke are generally advised not to use combination oral contraceptives.
• Cancer Risk: There may be a slightly increased risk of breast cancer associated with the use of hormonal contraceptives, but the relationship is complex and varies among individuals. Conversely, hormonal contraceptives may reduce the risk of certain other cancers, such as ovarian and endometrial cancer.
• High Blood Pressure: Some individuals may experience elevated blood pressure while using MonoNessa, so regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential.
• Migraines: Women with a history of migraines may experience an exacerbation of migraines while taking MonoNessa.
• Mood Changes: Some users may experience mood changes, including mood swings, depression, or anxiety.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal symptoms can occur in some individuals, especially during the initial stages of use.
• Weight Changes: While weight changes are not a common side effect, some women may experience weight gain while on hormonal contraceptives.
• Other Side Effects: MonoNessa can also cause other side effects, such as breast tenderness, changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, and a decreased libido.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may tolerate MonoNessa well. Your healthcare provider will assess your individual health profile and risk factors before prescribing MonoNessa. They can help you make an informed decision about whether the benefits of contraception outweigh the potential risks in your specific case. If you experience severe or unusual side effects while taking MonoNessa, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

MonoNessa is a prescription medication that is primarily used as an oral contraceptive, commonly known as birth control pills. It is prescribed to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries), thickening cervical mucus (making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg), and altering the uterine lining to make it less receptive to a fertilized egg. MonoNessa is a combination oral contraceptive, which means it contains two hormones: an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (norgestimate).

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how to use MonoNessa:

• Prescription and Consultation: MonoNessa is available only by prescription from a healthcare provider. Before starting MonoNessa or any birth control pill, you should have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right contraceptive option for you.
• Start Date: You will typically start taking MonoNessa on the first day of your menstrual period or on the first Sunday after your period begins. This helps ensure that you are protected from pregnancy right away.
• Daily Use: Take one tablet of MonoNessa at the same time every day, with or without food. It is essential to take the pills consistently, as directed by your healthcare provider, to maintain their effectiveness.
• Follow the Pack: MonoNessa typically comes in a 28-day pack, with 21 active pills (containing hormones) and 7 inactive or placebo pills. You should take one active pill each day for 21 days in a row, followed by one inactive pill each day for the next 7 days. This cycle is then repeated.
• Use Backup Contraception: It’s important to use backup contraception, such as condoms or another barrier method, during the first seven days of starting MonoNessa. After that, if you have been taking the pills consistently, you can rely on it for birth control.
• Missed Pills: If you miss a pill or take it more than 24 hours late, follow the instructions provided in the medication’s package insert or consult your healthcare provider for guidance. Missing pills can reduce the effectiveness of the birth control.
• Side Effects and Monitoring: Be aware of potential side effects and report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. They may adjust your prescription or recommend a different contraceptive method if necessary.
• Regular Check-ups: Your healthcare provider may schedule regular check-ups to monitor your health and discuss any concerns or changes in your birth control plan.

Remember that MonoNessa does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are at risk of STIs, you should also use condoms or another barrier method in addition to MonoNessa.

It’s crucial to use MonoNessa as prescribed by your healthcare provider to maximize its effectiveness and reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy. If you have any questions or concerns about using MonoNessa, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

While the primary purpose of MonoNessa is contraception, healthcare providers may prescribe it for other medical conditions that can benefit from hormonal regulation. These can include:

• Regulation of menstrual cycles
• Treatment of heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Management of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in postmenopausal women (with different formulations and dosages)

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when using MonoNessa:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider of your complete medical history, including any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or a family history of blood clots, heart disease, or breast cancer.
• Medication Interactions: Let your healthcare provider know about any other medications or supplements you are currently taking, as certain drugs may interact with MonoNessa, potentially reducing its effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Smoking: If you smoke, discuss it with your healthcare provider. Smoking while taking birth control pills, especially if you are over 35, can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.
• Blood Pressure: Birth control pills may affect blood pressure. Regular monitoring is essential if you have hypertension or a history of high blood pressure.
• Migraines: If you experience migraines, especially with visual disturbances, let your healthcare provider know. Birth control pills may increase the risk of stroke in individuals with certain types of migraines.
• Pregnancy: If you suspect you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking MonoNessa, discontinue use and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Breast Health: Perform regular breast self-exams and seek medical attention if you notice any unusual breast changes or lumps.
• Emergency Contraception: MonoNessa should not be used as emergency contraception. If you have had unprotected intercourse and need emergency contraception, speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about appropriate options.
• Side Effects: Be vigilant for any unusual side effects or adverse reactions, and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations when using MonoNessa or any prescription medication. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health needs and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions that you need to follow while taking MonoNessa (or most other birth control pills). However, it’s generally a good idea to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support your overall well-being. Some women may experience stomach upset when taking birth control pills, so taking them with food or at a consistent time with a meal can help reduce the likelihood of stomach discomfort.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss one active tablet (containing hormones), take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two tablets in one day. Then continue taking one tablet per day at your regular time.
• If you miss more than one active tablet in a row (two or more), use a backup contraceptive method like condoms and consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
• If you miss any of the reminder (inactive) pills, you can discard them and continue with the next active pill.
• If you’re unsure about what to do or if you miss multiple pills, consult your healthcare provider for guidance. They may recommend additional contraceptive methods or a backup method.

What side effects can this medication cause?

MonoNessa, like all birth control pills, can cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and many people tolerate the medication well. Common side effects of MonoNessa may include:

• Nausea: Some people may experience mild nausea, especially when they first start taking the medication. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime can help reduce this side effect.
• Breast Tenderness: MonoNessa may cause breast tenderness or enlargement in some individuals.
• Headache: Headaches can occasionally occur as a side effect of birth control pills. If headaches become severe or frequent, consult your healthcare provider.
• Spotting or Breakthrough Bleeding: Irregular bleeding between periods (spotting) or changes in your menstrual flow may occur, especially during the first few months of using MonoNessa.
• Weight Changes: Some individuals may experience slight weight changes while using birth control pills, although this is not a common side effect.
• Mood Changes: Mood swings or changes in mood can occur. Some people may experience improved mood, while others may notice emotional changes.
• Decreased Libido: A decrease in sexual desire is a potential side effect for some users.
• Vaginal Discharge: Changes in vaginal discharge may occur, but this is generally not a cause for concern.
• Skin Changes: MonoNessa may improve acne in some individuals, but it can also potentially cause skin changes or exacerbate existing skin conditions in others.
• Blood Pressure: In some cases, birth control pills can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is important, especially for individuals with a history of hypertension.

It’s essential to remember that while these side effects are possible, many people use birth control pills without experiencing significant problems. Moreover, the side effects often improve or resolve within a few months as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, or if you have any concerns, consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine if MonoNessa is the right contraceptive option for you or suggest alternative methods of birth control.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of rare but serious side effects associated with birth control pills, such as blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. The overall risk of these serious side effects is generally low, but it’s crucial to discuss your medical history and any potential risk factors with your healthcare provider before starting MonoNessa or any other birth control pill.

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

Storage:

• Store MonoNessa at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F or 20°C and 25°C).
• Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from light and moisture.
• Store the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Do not flush MonoNessa down the toilet or pour it down the drain. This is not a safe or environmentally responsible way to dispose of medication.
• To dispose of unused or expired MonoNessa pills, follow your local guidelines for medication disposal. Many pharmacies and healthcare facilities have programs in place to accept and properly dispose of unwanted medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose of MonoNessa, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States) for guidance.
• Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.

What other information should I know

• MonoNessa is intended for use as a contraceptive and for other specific medical purposes as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are at risk of STIs, consider using condoms or another barrier method in addition to MonoNessa.
• MonoNessa may interact with other medications, so inform your healthcare provider of all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and discuss any concerns or changes in your birth control plan.
• If you experience severe side effects, such as chest pain, severe headaches, shortness of breath, or visual disturbances, seek medical attention immediately.
• Report any changes in your health status, including new medical conditions or surgeries, to your healthcare provider, as this may affect your use of MonoNessa.
• Always take MonoNessa as directed by your healthcare provider to maximize its effectiveness.
• Follow the specific instructions provided in the medication’s package insert, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about its use.

It’s essential to use MonoNessa responsibly and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for its safe and effective use. If you have any questions or concerns about MonoNessa or its use, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider, who can provide you with personalized guidance and advice.