II. Preparations (Norethindrone Acetate / Ethinyl Estradiol)
- Estrostep (1 / 20 - 30 - 35)
III. Components
- Norethindrone Acetate 1 mg (see preparation above)
- Ethinyl Estradiol 20 ug - 30 ug - 35 ug
IV. Effects
- Relative Progestational Activity: 1.2 (high)
- Estrogenic Activity: 16 (low)
- Androgenic Activity: 0.53 (high)
V. Pill associated problems
- Indications to switch to Ortho Novum 1/35
- Acne Vulgaris (lower androgen)
- Indications to switch to Ortho Cyclen
- Increased Appetite (lower Progestin)
- Major Depression provoked (lower Progestin)
- Indications to switch to Lo/Ovral
- Indications to switch to Loestrin 1.5/30
- Libido decreased (more androgen)
- Break-through bleed days 10-21 (more Progestin)
- Heavy Menses (more Progestin or less Estrogen)
- Dysmenorrhea or Menstrual Cramps (more Progestin)
- Indications to switch to Loestrin 1/20
VI. References
- Cerel-Suhl (1999) Am Fam Physician 60(7):2073 [PubMed]
- Speroff (1993) Obstet Gynecol 81:1034-47 [PubMed]
- Dickey (1998) Managing Contraceptive Pill Patients