Alesse

In addition to being used as a contraceptive, Alesse may also provide other benefits, such as regulating menstrual cycles, reducing the risk of certain types of ovarian and endometrial cancers, and treating symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Alesse is taken orally, once a day, at the same time each day. The pack contains 21 active pills with hormones and 7 placebo pills without hormones. The active pills are taken for three weeks, followed by one week of placebo pills, during which a withdrawal bleed similar to a menstrual period usually occurs.

It's important to note that Alesse does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If protection against STIs is needed, it is recommended to use additional barrier methods, such as condoms.

How to use

To use Alesse correctly, follow these general instructions:

1. Start Alesse on the first day of your menstrual period. This ensures immediate contraceptive protection. If you start on any other day, additional contraception (such as condoms) should be used for the first 7 days of pill-taking.
2. Take one pill at the same time every day, preferably with a glass of water. It's recommended to take Alesse at a time that is convenient for you and easy to remember.
3. Follow the direction of the arrows on the blister pack to take one pill each day, starting with the first active pill and continuing until all 21 active pills have been taken.
4. After finishing the last active pill, continue taking one pill daily from the pack. These are the placebo (inactive) pills and serve as a reminder for you to take your pill every day. The placebo pills do not contain hormones and do not provide contraceptive protection.
5. Once you finish all 28 pills in the pack, start a new pack on the following day. There is no required period of pill-free days between packs.
6. It's important to take Alesse consistently and at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. Missing a pill or taking it at significantly different times may reduce its contraceptive effectiveness.
7. If you vomit within two hours of taking Alesse or have severe diarrhea, additional contraceptive measures may be necessary.
8. Drug does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If protection against STIs is needed, use additional barrier methods, such as condoms.

Dosage

The dosage of Alesse may vary depending on individual factors. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions. Here are some general dosage guidelines:

1. Alesse typically comes in a pack containing 28 pills. Each pack consists of 21 active pills and 7 placebo (inactive) pills.
2. Start by taking one active pill daily for 21 consecutive days. The active pills contain the hormones necessary for contraception.
3. After finishing the 21 active pills, take one placebo pill daily for 7 days. The placebo pills serve as a reminder to take your pill every day but do not contain hormones.
4. After the 7 placebo pills, start a new pack of Alesse on the following day, even if you are still having your withdrawal bleed.
5. It's important to take Alesse at the same time every day to maintain its effectiveness. Choose a time that is convenient for you and easy to remember.
6. If you miss a placebo pill, it does not impact the contraceptive effectiveness, but continue taking the pills in order as scheduled.

Side effects

Alesse (ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel), like other oral contraceptives, may cause certain side effects in some individuals. While not everyone experiences these side effects, it's important to be aware of them. Common side effects can include:

1. Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild nausea, especially during the first few weeks of starting Alesse. Taking the pill with food or at bedtime may help alleviate this symptom.
2. Breast tenderness: Alesse may cause breast tenderness or discomfort in some individuals. This side effect is usually mild and temporary.
3. Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Alesse.
4. Changes in menstrual bleeding: Alesse may cause changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. These can include lighter periods, irregular bleeding, spotting between periods, or missed periods.
5. Mood changes: Some individuals may experience changes in mood, including depression, irritability, or mood swings.
6. Weight changes: While not common, some individuals may experience slight weight changes while taking Alesse.
7. Other possible side effects: Other less common side effects of Alesse may include bloating, changes in appetite, fatigue, decreased libido, or skin reactions.

It's important to note that these side effects are usually mild and often improve with time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if these side effects persist, worsen, or if you experience more severe side effects such as severe abdominal pain, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, it's essential to seek medical attention.

Every individual may respond differently to Alesse, and some may experience no side effects at all.

Storage

When it comes to storing Alesse, it's important to follow the recommended guidelines to maintain the medication's effectiveness and ensure its safety. Here are the storage instructions:

1. Store tablets at room temperature, typically between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C).
2. Keep Alesse away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in places like windowsills, cars, or areas exposed to high temperatures.
3. Protect Alesse from moisture. Keep the blister pack in its original packaging and avoid exposing it to humid environments such as bathrooms.
4. Keep medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
5. Check the expiration date of Alesse. Do not use the medication if it has expired.
6. If you are traveling and need to carry Alesse with you, ensure that it is stored in a cool, dry place. It's advisable to keep it in its original packaging to protect it from light and moisture.

Following these storage instructions will help ensure the quality and effectiveness of your Alesse medication.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Alesse, it is important to seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. An overdose of Alesse can potentially be harmful and may require medical intervention.

The specific effects of an Alesse overdose may vary depending on individual factors and the amount of medication ingested. Symptoms that may indicate an overdose include:

1. Nausea or vomiting
2. Abdominal pain or discomfort
3. Dizziness or lightheadedness
4. Vaginal bleeding or spotting
5. Breast tenderness
6. Headache
7. Fluid retention or swelling

It is important to note that an overdose of Alesse is unlikely to cause life-threatening symptoms. However, it is still essential to seek medical attention to ensure appropriate evaluation and management.

If you or someone you know has taken more Alesse than prescribed or exhibits signs of an overdose, contact emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

In the case of an overdose, do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a medical professional. Prompt medical attention is crucial to ensure appropriate assessment and management of the situation.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Alesse, follow these general guidelines:

1. Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills on the same day. This helps to maintain the effectiveness of the contraceptive.
2. If you missed one active pill and it has been less than 24 hours since the scheduled time, take the missed pill immediately and continue with the rest of the pack as usual. No additional contraception is needed.
3. If you missed one active pill and it has been more than 24 hours since the scheduled time, take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Then continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time. Additional contraception, such as condoms, should be used for the next 7 days.
4. If you missed two or more active pills in a row, take the most recent missed pill as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Discontinue the remaining missed pills and continue taking the rest of the pack at the usual time. Additional contraception is needed for the next 7 days.
5. If you missed any of the placebo pills, it does not affect the contraceptive effectiveness. Simply discard the missed placebo pill(s) and continue with the next active pill.