ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin Health Article

How should I use ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use more skin patches or wear them for longer than recommended by your doctor. You will apply your first patch on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period begins (follow your doctor's instructions).

Place the patch on your skin and press it into place firmly for 10 seconds. Make sure the edges stick well. You will wear the patch for a full week.

Apply the patch to clean, dry skin on any of these areas: the outside of your upper arm, your stomach, your buttocks, or your upper back. Do not apply the patch to skin that is broken or irritated, or to a skin area that may be rubbed by tight clothing (such as a waistband).

Remove the patch and apply a new one on the same day each week for three weeks in a row. Check your patch every day to make sure it is sticking well to your skin. At the end of the third week, remove the patch and do not apply a new one for 7 full days. Your period should start during this time Do not allow more than 7 days to pass before starting your next 3-week patch cycle..

You may need to use back-up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions.

You may have breakthrough bleeding, especially during the first 3 months. Tell your doctor if this bleeding continues or is very heavy.

If you need to have any type of medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using birth control skin patches.

Your doctor will need to see you on a regular basis while you are using this medication. Do not miss any appointments.

Store the skin patches at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep each patch in its foil pouch until you are ready to apply it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply a skin patch as soon as you remember. If it is almost time to apply your next patch, skip the missed dose and apply a patch on the next regularly scheduled day of the week. Do not use extra patches to make up the missed dose.

Missing a dose increases your risk of becoming pregnant. Follow the weekly patch schedule closely.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.

What should I avoid while using ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin?

Do not smoke while using the birth control patch, especially if you are older than 35. Smoking can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack caused by using this medication.

This medication will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV and AIDS. Using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from these diseases.

Avoid using creams, lotions, powders, or other medications on the skin where you apply the patch, or it may not stick to your skin.