Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo is a birth control medication that is used to prevent pregnancy. It is a combination of two hormones, progestin and estrogen, which work together to prevent ovulation. This medication is available only by prescription, and it is important to use it as directed by your healthcare provider. In this article, we will discuss the uses, benefits, side effects, and warnings of Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo.
Uses
Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo is primarily used to prevent pregnancy, but it can also be used to treat acne in women who are 15 years of age or older and have begun menstruating. This medication works by altering the hormones that are produced by the body, which can reduce the number of acne breakouts a woman experiences. It should be noted, however, that Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo is not a cure for acne and may not work for everyone.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo is that it is highly effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly. According to the manufacturer, this medication has a failure rate of less than 1% when used as directed. Additionally, it can help regulate menstrual cycles, reducing the severity of cramping, bloating, and other symptoms associated with a woman’s period.
Side Effects
Like any medication, Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Irregular bleeding or spotting between periods
More serious side effects can occur, although they are rare. These can include blood clots or stroke, liver damage, or allergic reactions. If you experience any severe side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Warnings
There are several warnings associated with Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo. For example, this medication should not be used by women who:
- Are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack
- Have liver disease or liver tumors
- Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Are over the age of 35 and smoke
Additionally, women who use Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo should be aware of the following:
- This medication does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
- It can take several months for a woman’s menstrual cycle to return to normal after stopping Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo
It is important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo with your healthcare provider.
FAQs
According to the manufacturer, Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo has a failure rate of less than 1% when used correctly.
Yes, Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo can be used to treat acne in women who are 15 years of age or older and have begun menstruating.
The most common side effects of Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo include nausea and vomiting, headaches, breast tenderness, weight gain, mood changes, and irregular bleeding or spotting between periods.
Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo should not be used by women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, have liver disease or liver tumors, have uncontrolled high blood pressure, or are over the age of 35 and smoke.
No, Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. It is important to use additional forms of protection, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of infection.
