About ethinylest radiol
Combined hormonal contraceptive
Used for
- Prevents pregnancy
- May improve acne and menstrual symptoms
Usual adult dose
One tablet once daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval; start the next pack on schedule.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes or spotting
Important warnings
- Increases risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack
- Not suitable for some people with migraine with aura or clotting history
- Smoking increases serious cardiovascular risks, especially after age 35
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
Pregnancy
Do not use during pregnancy. Stop if pregnancy is confirmed.
Breastfeeding
May reduce milk supply; generally avoid during early breastfeeding and seek clinical guidance.
Interactions
- Some seizure medicines, rifampicin, and certain HIV medicines can reduce contraceptive effectiveness
- St John’s wort may reduce effectiveness
- May affect medicines such as lamotrigine
- Vomiting or severe diarrhoea can impair absorption
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.