Microlon
Microlon Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Microlon is a brand name. Its generic name is Ethinylestradiol + Desogestrel.
Introduction
Microlon is a combination of two medications: ethinylestradiol (an estrogen) and desogestrel (a progestin). It is used to prevent pregnancy and is most commonly known as a “birth control pill” or simply “the Pill.”Uses
Microlon is primarily used as a contraceptive measure to prevent pregnancy. Additionally, it may be used to treat conditions such as acne, endometriosis, and Hirsutism (excessive hair growth).Mechanism of Action
The mechanism by which Microlon works to prevent pregnancy is through a combination of several different mechanisms. First, it prevents ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovary. Additionally, it thickens the cervical mucus which acts as a physical barrier that prevents sperm from entering the uterus. Finally, it can also thin the lining of the uterus, making it less hospitable for a fertilized egg to implant.How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effectiveness of the Pill depends on when it is started. If started within five days following the onset of a menstrual period, it will be effective immediately. If it is started at any other time, it can take up to seven days to be effective.Absorption
Microlon is taken orally and is easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The medication is also efficiently metabolized in the liver and its metabolites can enter other body tissues.Route of Elimination
Microlon is eliminated mainly via the kidneys in the form of metabolites.Dosage
The recommended dosage of Microlon is one tablet (0.02 mg ethinylestradiol + 0.15 mg desogestrel) taken once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days of placebo (inactive) tablets.Administration
Microlon is to be taken by mouth once daily, with or without food. It is important to take it at the same time each day to ensure consistent protection against pregnancy.Side Effects
Common side effects associated with Microlon include nausea, vomiting, irregular menstrual bleeding, and breast tenderness. Other more serious side effects such as jaundice, stroke, and heart attack have also been reported with use.Toxicity
Overdoses of Microlon may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, rash, and vaginal bleeding. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.Precaution
Certain conditions may require an adjustment of dose or special monitoring during treatment with ethinylestradiol + desogestrel. Before using this medication, inform your doctor if you have diabetes, depression, high cholesterol, kidney disease, gallbladder disease, liver disease, a history of stroke or blood clotting disorder.Interaction
Certain medications may interact with ethinylestradiol + desogestrel and increase the risk of side effects. Examples include antifungals, antibiotics, seizure medications, and certain HIV medications. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking or planning to take in order to reduce the risk of interactions.Disease Interaction
Certain conditions may increase the risk of side effects with the use of ethinylestradiol + desogestrel. Examples include high blood pressure, diabetes, and migraines. It’s important to inform your doctor of any underlying conditions before using this medication.Drug Interaction
Drugs that may interact with ethinylestradiol + desogestrel include certain antibiotics, antifungals, seizure medications, and certain HIV medications. It’s important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking or planning to take to reduce the risk of interactions.Food Interaction
Food and drinks do not interact with ethinylestradiol + desogestrel. However, it should be taken with water and at the same time each day for consistent protection against pregnancy.Pregnancy Use
Microlon should not be used by pregnant women as it may cause harm to a developing fetus.Lactation Use
There is a risk of harm to the infant if ethinylestradiol + desogestrel is taken while breastfeeding, as the medication can be passed into the breastmilk.Acute Overdose
Taking too much ethinylestradiol + desogestrel may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and vaginal bleeding. If an overdose is suspected, get medical help immediately.Contraindication
The use of this medication is contraindicated in women with certain conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, or a history of heart attack or stroke. Additionally, this medication should not be used during pregnancy or in women who are breastfeeding.Use Direction
The recommended dose of ethinylestradiol + desogestrel is one tablet (0.02 mg ethinylestradiol + 0.15 mg desogestrel) taken once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days of placebo (inactive) tablets. It is important to take it at the same time each day for consistent protection against pregnancy.Storage Condition
Microlon should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of ethinylestradiol + desogestrel is not known.Half Life
The average half-life of ethinylestradiol + desogestrel is 32 hours.Clearance
Ethinylestradiol + desogestrel is cleared mainly by the kidneys, with only about 20% cleared through hepatic metabolism.Here you find in details version of Microlon
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Microlon
1. What is Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel is a combined hormonal contraception medication, primarily used to prevent pregnancy. It is taken orally, typically once daily, and consists of two hormones, ethinylestradiol (an artificial form of estrogen) and desogestrel (a progestin).
2. How does Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel work?
Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel works by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and by thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation. This means it can prevent pregnancy when taken correctly.
3. How effective is Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
When taken correctly, Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that it can still fail, and other forms of contraception should be used in addition to Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel when engaging in sexual activity.
4. How do I take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel is taken orally once a day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break. It is important to take the pill at the same time every day, and a missed dose can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
5. What are the side effects of Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Common side effects of Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel include headache, nausea, menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, and an increased risk of yeast infections. More serious side effects can include depression, mood swings, and an increased risk of blood clots.
6. Who should not take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel should not be taken by people with a history of blood clots, stroke, liver disease, some cancers, or undiagnosed vaginal bleeding. It is also not recommended for smokers over 35, and is not suitable for women who are breastfeeding.
7. Does Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel protect against STIs?
No, Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms should always be used in addition to or instead of other forms of contraception to reduce the risk of STIs.
8. What other types of contraception can be used?
There are many different methods of contraception available, both hormonal and non-hormonal. These include the oral contraceptive pill, the intrauterine device (IUD), and barrier methods such as condoms, diaphragms, and spermicides.
9. Is it safe to take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel while breastfeeding?
No, it is not safe to take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel while breastfeeding. It is important to use other forms of contraception, such as condoms or non-hormonal contraception, while breastfeeding.
10. What should I do if I miss a dose of Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
If you miss a dose of Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking the remaining doses at the usual time. If the dose is missed for more than 12 hours, an additional method of contraception (such as a condom) should be used for the rest of the cycle.
11. Can I take other medications while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Certain medications can interact with Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel and reduce its effectiveness, such as antibiotics and antifungal medications. If you are taking any other medications, it is important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure there are no drug interactions.
12. What should I do if I become pregnant while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
If you become pregnant while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you are taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel as your main form of contraception, you will need to explore other methods of contraception.
13. Can I drink alcohol while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
It is generally safe to drink alcohol while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel. However, excessive alcohol consumption can reduce its effectiveness, so it is important to keep your intake to within recommended limits.
14. Is it safe to tan while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Yes, it is generally safe to tan while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel. However, your skin may be more sensitive to the sun, and it is important to use sunscreen to reduce the risk of sunburn or skin damage.
15. Are there any risks associated with taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Yes, there are some risks associated with taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, such as an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancers. It is important to speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.
16. What are the alternatives to Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
There are a variety of alternatives to Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, including non-hormonal contraception such as condoms or barrier methods, as well as other forms of hormonal contraception such as oral contraceptive pills, injections, implants, and intrauterine devices.
17. When should I take my last pill of the month?
Your last pill should be taken on the last day of the month, in the evening before you go to bed. You should then have a 7-day break before starting the next month's packet.
18. Can Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel make my periods lighter?
Yes, Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel can make your periods lighter, as well as shorter and less painful. It can also reduce the risk of developing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as mood swings and breast tenderness.
19. Can I take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel if I'm over 35?
Yes, but it is not recommended for women over 35 who smoke. Smoking can increase the risk of side effects, such as blood clots, when taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel.
20. Can I take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel while travelling?
Yes, you can take Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel while travelling, but make sure you plan ahead and take enough pills for your entire trip. It is also important to keep them in a cool, dry place where they will not be exposed to too much heat or light.
21. Does Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel provide any long-term health benefits?
Yes, taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel can provide long-term health benefits, such as a reduced risk of developing certain types of cancers, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and iron deficiency anemia.
22. Is taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel associated with weight gain?
It is unlikely that taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel will cause significant weight gain, although some women may experience a small amount of weight gain due to water retention. If this is the case, other methods of contraception may be more suitable.
23. Do I need to use additional contraception when taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Although Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly, it is recommended to use additional contraception, such as condoms or a diaphragm, when engaging in sexual activity.
24. Is it possible to become pregnant if I've been taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant if you have been taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel. It is important to use a backup form of contraception if you have missed a dose, or if you have engaged in sexual activity without using a condom or other form of birth control.
25. How long does it take for Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel to be effective?
Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel is usually effective after one week of use, but it is important to use additional contraception for the first 7 days. It is also important to start using Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel on the first day of your menstrual cycle.
26. Can I become pregnant while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, although it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly. If you think you may be pregnant, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
27. Is there a risk of my periods becoming irregular while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
It is not common for periods to become irregular while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, although it is possible in some cases. If your periods become irregular while taking the medication, speak to your doctor for further advice.
28. Can I still get pregnant after I stop taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant after stopping Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, although it is generally advised to wait a month before trying to conceive. However, it is important to speak to your doctor if you are trying to become pregnant.
29. Can I take antibiotics while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel?
Yes, you can take antibiotics while taking Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel, but it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist for a list of compatible antibiotics as some may interact with the medication.
30. Is Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel suitable for women aged under 18?
Yes, Ethinylestradiol Desogestrel can be prescribed to women under 18, although it is important to seek medical advice from a doctor or pharmacist regarding the suitability of this medication.