WARNING

While Previfem is generally considered safe for many individuals and is an effective form of contraception, it does come with potential risks and side effects. It’s important to note that the risks associated with Previfem can vary among individuals, and the decision to use this contraceptive should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. Some potential risks of taking Previfem include:

• Blood Clots: The use of hormonal contraceptives, including Previfem, may increase the risk of blood clots. This risk is higher in individuals with additional risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or a history of blood clots.
• Cardiovascular Events: Rare but serious cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks have been associated with hormonal contraceptives.
• Liver Issues: Hormonal contraceptives may, in rare cases, lead to liver problems. Regular monitoring may be recommended.
• Hypertension: Previfem may contribute to increased blood pressure in some users.
• Gallbladder Disease: There may be a slightly increased risk of gallbladder disease.
• Mood Changes: Some individuals may experience changes in mood while taking hormonal contraceptives.
• Nausea and Headaches: Nausea and headaches are common side effects, especially when first starting the medication.
• Breast Tenderness: Some users may experience breast tenderness or swelling.

It’s important to discuss your medical history, lifestyle, and any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting Previfem. They can help assess your individual risk factors and determine whether this contraceptive is the right choice for you. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for potential side effects and make any necessary adjustments to your contraceptive plan. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Previfem is a combination oral contraceptive pill used for birth control. It contains two hormones: ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and norgestimate (a progestin). The combination of these hormones works to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, altering the cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and changing the lining of the uterus to make it less receptive to a fertilized egg.

How should this medicine be used?

Previfem is an oral contraceptive, and it’s important to use it exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Here are general guidelines on how to use Previfem, but it’s crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor:

• Start of the Pack: Begin taking Previfem on the first day of your menstrual period, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Starting on this day ensures immediate contraceptive protection. If you start on a Sunday, begin with the tablet labeled with that day of the week.
• Daily Routine: Take one active tablet of Previfem at the same time every day. It’s essential to establish a routine to help remember to take the pill consistently. The pack usually contains 28 tablets: 21 active tablets containing hormones and 7 inactive or placebo tablets.
• Order of Tablets: Take the tablets in the correct order, following the arrows on the package. Once you finish the active tablets, move on to the inactive tablets.
• Inactive Tablets: Take one inactive tablet daily for the last 7 days of the pack. Menstrual bleeding typically occurs during the week of inactive tablets.
• Continuous Use: After finishing the pack, start a new pack on the eighth day, regardless of whether you have started your period or not.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the package insert. Generally, if you miss one active tablet, take it as soon as you remember and take the next tablet at your regular time. If you miss two or more tablets, refer to your healthcare provider’s advice.
• Additional Contraception: Use additional forms of contraception, such as condoms, during the first 7 days of the first pack or if you miss active tablets and restart the pack.

It’s important to note that individual circumstances may vary, and these are general guidelines. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns or questions you may have regarding Previfem use. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are also essential to monitor your health and adjust your contraceptive plan if needed.

Other uses for this medicine

Previfem is primarily prescribed as an oral contraceptive for birth control, and it is not typically prescribed for other medical conditions. However, certain hormonal contraceptives, including Previfem, may have non-contraceptive benefits, such as regulation of menstrual cycles, reduction of menstrual cramps, and improvement of acne. These additional benefits can vary from person to person, and the decision to use Previfem for these purposes should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions and considerations for using Previfem include:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or a history of blood clotting disorders.
• Pregnancy: Do not use Previfem if you are pregnant. If you suspect pregnancy while using this contraceptive, contact your healthcare provider.
• Breastfeeding: If you are breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provider whether Previfem is a suitable option, as certain hormones may pass into breast milk.
• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, especially in women over 35. Women who smoke are generally advised not to use combined hormonal contraceptives.
• Blood Clot Risk: Hormonal contraceptives, including Previfem, may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women with certain risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or a history of blood clots.
• Age and Health: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether Previfem is appropriate for your age, overall health, and lifestyle.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor for any potential side effects or changes in health.
• Missed Doses: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions if you miss a dose. Missing doses can reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
• Interactions: Certain medications, such as certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants, may interact with hormonal contraceptives. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, including but not limited to changes in mood, breast tenderness, and breakthrough bleeding. If you experience severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

It’s important to have open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that Previfem is the right choice for you, considering your individual health profile and needs. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are also crucial for ongoing monitoring and adjustments if necessary.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Previfem. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is important for overall well-being. If you have specific concerns about diet and medication interactions, it’s advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of your oral contraceptive, follow these general guidelines:

• Missed One Active Tablet:
  • Take the missed tablet as soon as you remember.
  • Take the next tablet at the regular time.
  • Continue taking the rest of the pack as scheduled.
• Missed Two or More Active Tablets (First Two Weeks):
  • Take the most recently missed tablet as soon as you remember.
  • Discard any earlier missed tablets.
  • Continue taking one tablet daily at the regular time.
  • Use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the next 7 days.
• Missed Two or More Active Tablets (Third Week):
  • If you miss two or more tablets and start a new pack, skip the inactive tablets and finish the active tablets.
  • Use additional contraception for the next 7 days.
  • If the inactive tablets are missed, discard them and start a new pack.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like any medication, Previfem can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects that are not listed. Common side effects of Previfem may include:

• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea, especially when first starting the medication. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime may help alleviate this.
• Headache: Headaches are a reported side effect in some users.
• Breast Tenderness: Some individuals may experience breast tenderness or swelling.
• Weight Changes: Changes in weight can occur in some individuals.
• Mood Changes: Hormonal contraceptives can affect mood in some users.
• Breakthrough Bleeding: Spotting or breakthrough bleeding may occur, particularly during the first few months of use.
• Decreased Libido: Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire.
• Menstrual Irregularities: Changes in menstrual flow or pattern may occur.

Serious side effects are rare but can include:

• Blood Clots: There may be an increased risk of blood clots, especially in individuals with other risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or a history of blood clots.
• Stroke or Heart Attack: In rare cases, hormonal contraceptives have been associated with an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
• Liver Problems: Serious liver problems are rare but can occur.
• High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure may increase in some users.
• Gallbladder Issues: There may be a slightly increased risk of gallbladder disease.

It’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent side effects, especially if they are affecting your well-being. Additionally, seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of a blood clot, stroke, heart attack, or other serious conditions.

Remember that the benefits and risks of using hormonal contraceptives like Previfem should be discussed with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual health considerations. If you have specific concerns or questions about potential side effects, consult with your healthcare provider.

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

Storage and Disposal of Previfem:

• Storage:
  • Store Previfem at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
  • Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from external elements.
  • Avoid storing it in the bathroom, where moisture and humidity levels can fluctuate.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused medication in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so. Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) or seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding in females.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your health, discuss any concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to your contraceptive plan.
• Medical and Laboratory Tests: Your healthcare provider may perform periodic medical and laboratory tests, such as blood pressure measurements, to monitor your health while using Previfem.
• Missed Menstrual Periods: It is common to experience lighter and shorter periods while using hormonal contraceptives. If you miss two consecutive menstrual periods, contact your healthcare provider to rule out pregnancy.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Previfem.
• Regular Breast Self-Exams: Perform regular breast self-exams and report any lumps or changes to your healthcare provider.
• Cancer Risk: Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives may be associated with a slightly increased risk of certain cancers. Discuss your individual risk factors with your healthcare provider.
• Protection Against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Previfem does not protect against STIs. If there is a risk of STIs, use condoms or other barrier methods.
• Dietary Considerations: While there are generally no specific dietary restrictions with Previfem, maintaining a healthy diet is important for overall well-being.
• Symptoms to Report: Report any unusual or severe symptoms, including changes in mood, vision problems, severe abdominal pain, or signs of blood clots, to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance for the specific use of Previfem based on your individual health needs and circumstances. If you have any concerns or questions, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.