Desogestrel +
Ethinylestradiol Tablets

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Therapeutic Indication

>Oral contraception (birth control)
Regulation of menstrual cycle
Treatment of dysmenorrhea
Management of hormonal imbalance
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Desogestrel and Ethinylestradiol

Tablet

Desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol combination is used to prevent pregnancy. It is a birth control pill that contains two types of hormones, desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol, and when taken properly, prevents pregnancy. It works by stopping a woman's egg from fully developing each month. The egg can no longer accept a sperm and fertilization (pregnancy) is prevented.

Speciality Gynaecology
Tags Women Health | PCOS | Acne | Hormonal Therapy
Strength
  • Desogestrel 0.15 mg
  • Ethinylestradiol 0.02/0.03 mg
Packing Size
  • 21 Tablets

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Mechanism

Desogestrel and Ethinylestradiol act synergistically to inhibit ovulation by suppressing gonadotropin release. Ethinylestradiol stabilizes the endometrium and regulates menstrual bleeding, while Desogestrel (converted to etonogestrel) provides progestogenic activity that thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm penetration. Together, they provide effective oral contraception.

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Both Desogestrel and Ethinylestradiol are rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration. Ethinylestradiol undergoes first-pass metabolism, resulting in ~40–60% bioavailability.
  • Distribution: Ethinylestradiol is highly protein-bound (mainly to albumin), while Desogestrel is converted to its active metabolite (etonogestrel), which binds to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin.
  • Metabolism: Desogestrel is rapidly metabolized in the liver to etonogestrel (active form). Ethinylestradiol undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism via CYP3A4, including conjugation (sulfation & glucuronidation).
  • Elimination: Metabolites are excreted via urine and feces in approximately equal proportions. Enterohepatic recirculation of Ethinylestradiol prolongs its effect.
  • Half-life: Etonogestrel: ~30 hours
    Ethinylestradiol: ~20 hours

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight changes
  • Mood changes
  • Breakthrough bleeding

Contraindication

  • Not recommended in smokers above 35 years
  • Monitor blood pressure
  • Use under medical supervision
  • Regular follow-up advised

Interaction

  • Antiepileptic drugs (phenytoin, carbamazepine)
  • Rifampicin and enzyme inducers
  • Certain antibiotics
  • Herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort

Warning and Precautions

This has been prescribed for the patient's specific condition. It may be dangerous to any other person.

  • Use under medical supervision
  • Not recommended for smokers above 35 years
  • Monitor blood pressure regularly
  • Risk of blood clots with prolonged use
  • Regular gynecological check-up advised