ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin at a glance
Medicine class
Combined hormonal contraceptive containing an oestrogen and a progestogen.
Licensed use
Prevention of pregnancy in women of fertile age.
Form
A matrix-type patch that delivers hormones through the skin.
STI protection
It does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections; condoms can provide STI protection.
What is ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin used for?
It is licensed for:
Female contraception in women of fertile age; product evidence establishes safety and efficacy in women aged 18 to 45 years.
How does ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin work?
The hormones suppress the signals that trigger ovulation. Changes to cervical mucus and the womb lining may also help prevent pregnancy.
ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin preparations and strengths
Transdermal patch
Route: Transdermal
Strengths: 203 micrograms/24 hours + 33.9 micrograms/24 hours
How to take ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin
Apply the patch immediately after opening its sachet. Use clean, dry, hairless, healthy skin on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm or upper torso. Do not apply it to the breasts or irritated or broken skin.
Press firmly so the edges adhere and check that the patch remains attached.
Rotate the application site to reduce irritation.
Do not cut, damage or alter the patch.
Do not put creams, lotions, make-up or powders where the patch is or will shortly be applied.
Fold and seal used patches as instructed; do not flush them down the toilet.
ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin side effects
Common or expected effects
- Headache
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting, breakthrough bleeding or other menstrual changes
- Application-site redness, itching or irritation
- Mood changes
- Acne or rash
- Dizziness
Get urgent medical advice
- Venous blood clot, including deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Stroke, transient ischaemic attack or heart attack
- Severe allergic reaction or angioedema
- Severe or worsening depression, particularly with suicidal thoughts
- Significant hypertension or serious liver problems
ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin in pregnancy
This patch is not indicated during pregnancy. Stop using it and contact a healthcare professional if pregnancy occurs or is suspected. Limited product-specific pregnancy data do not allow firm conclusions about safety.
ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin while breastfeeding
Combined hormonal contraception can reduce milk quantity and alter its composition. The product information does not recommend this patch until breastfeeding has completely stopped; discuss suitable contraception with a midwife, doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin interactions
Ask a pharmacist or prescriber to check all prescribed, over-the-counter and herbal products.
Enzyme-inducing medicines, including carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, rifampicin, modafinil and some HIV medicines
They can increase hormone clearance, causing breakthrough bleeding and reduced contraceptive effectiveness; alternative or additional contraception may be required.
St John's wort
This herbal remedy may reduce contraceptive effectiveness. Obtain advice before combining it with the patch.
Common questions about ethinylestradiol + norelgestromin
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Where can I put the patch?
Use clean, dry, hairless, intact skin on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm or upper torso. Avoid the breasts, broken or irritated skin and areas rubbed by tight clothing.
Can I cut the patch?
No. Cutting, damaging or altering it may affect hormone delivery and contraceptive protection.
What should I do if the patch falls off?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.