Ortho Tricyclen

Ortho Tricyclen is a birth control drug that contains both estrogen and progestin.

Drug Uses

The drug Ortho Tricyclen is taken as a prevention against unwanted pregnancy. Ortho Tricyclen also finds other uses like the regulation of the menstrual cycle and in case of menopausal symptoms.

How to take the Drug

It is advised that Ortho Tricyclen be taken one tablet a day at the same time. It must be ensured that the drug is taken at a specific time everyday keeping the time interval the same on all days.

Drug Precautions

There are several precautions that are advised while using Ortho Tricyclen:

• Smoking while on Ortho Tricyclen may have adverse effects leading to stroke, blood clots, heart attack or high blood pressure.
• It is advisable to use another birth control method in the initial phase of starting to use till you get the next period.
• Ortho Tricyclen should not be taken in case you are pregnant or if you are a nursing mother.

Drug Interactions

It is observed that certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants are contraindicated while using Ortho Tricyclen. It is best to consult your medical practitioner before taking a course of antibiotics or any anticonvulsant. In case of having to undergo any surgery, dental treatments or any other medication do inform your doctor regarding the use of Ortho Tricyclen.

Side effects

Some of the side effects that may be observed in some persons using Ortho Tricyclen:

- The use of the drug may cause dark patches on the face. Use of sunscreen is advisable as otherwise the patches would get darker with exposure to sun.

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Bleeding or spotting

- Tenderness of the breasts

- Change in weight

In case you do experience persisting symptoms like heavy bleeding, missing the period, dizziness, headache, swelling in the ankle and fingers or any kind of difficulty experienced in wearing contact lenses; do consult your medical practitioner. Consult your doctor immediately in case of symptoms like chest pain, breathing difficulty, any changes in vision, unbearable stomach pain, numbness in the leg or arm, yellow color of the eyes or skin and severe headache.

Missed Dose

If you have missed a dose, do take the tablet as soon as you remember. You may also take two tablets at the time the next dose is due. However, if you miss two doses do take it as soon as you remember or take both the doses along with your next regular dose. Missing a dose can increase your risk of pregnancy. If you have missed your dose do adopt another method of protection till your next period.

Overdose

Overdose could result in symptoms like nausea or even bleeding.

Storage

Ortho Tricyclen must be stored at room temperature and should be kept in a dark place away from moisture. Keep away from children and pets.