Ortho Tri Cyclen is a combination pill that contains two hormones-ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate-used to prevent pregnancy. It is also marketed under the brand name Tri-Sprintec. Besides preventing pregnancy, Ortho Tri Cyclen has been approved for the treatment of acne in women who are at least 15 years old.
Uses of Ortho Tri Cyclen
Ortho Tri Cyclen is mainly used to prevent pregnancy, but it has also been approved for treating acne and reducing the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is a severe form of PMS that can cause depression, anxiety, and irritability in some women. However, Ortho Tri Cyclen labels do not recommend it for the treatment of these conditions.
Benefits of Ortho Tri Cyclen
Ortho Tri Cyclen has many benefits. Apart from preventing pregnancy, taking Ortho Tri Cyclen can reduce the risk of ovarian cysts, regulate menstrual periods, and reduce the symptoms of other menstrual disorders. It can also improve the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that affects a woman’s hormone levels and can cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
Side Effects of Ortho Tri Cyclen
Like any other medication, Ortho Tri Cyclen can cause side effects. The most common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Spotting between menstrual periods
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps or bloating
- Changes in appetite or weight
Other more severe side effects may include blood clots in the legs, lungs, or eyes, high blood pressure, liver problems, or breast lumps. Some women may also experience changes in their mood, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability.
Warnings about Ortho Tri Cyclen
Before taking Ortho Tri Cyclen, women should be aware of the following precautions and warnings:
- Ortho Tri Cyclen may increase the risk of blood clots, especially if the woman is a smoker, obese, or has a history of blood clots.
- Women with liver disease, heart disease, or lupus should avoid taking Ortho Tri Cyclen.
- Women who have had breast cancer or any other hormone-related cancer should not take Ortho Tri Cyclen.
- Women taking other medications that can interact with Ortho Tri Cyclen, such as antibiotics or anti-seizure medications, should consult their doctor before taking Ortho Tri Cyclen.
- Ortho Tri Cyclen may cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy, so women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should not take Ortho Tri Cyclen.
FAQs about Ortho Tri Cyclen
Ortho Tri Cyclen is about 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if taken correctly.
Ortho Tri Cyclen starts working immediately if taken on the first day of the menstrual cycle. If taken at any other time, it may take up to seven days to become effective.
Ortho Tri Cyclen may cause changes in a woman’s appetite or weight, but there is no evidence to suggest that Ortho Tri Cyclen causes weight gain.
No, Ortho Tri Cyclen will not protect you from STIs. You should still use a condom or other barrier method to protect against STIs.
Ortho Tri Cyclen can be taken for as long as a woman wants to prevent pregnancy. However, women over the age of 35 who smoke should not take Ortho Tri Cyclen for extended periods.
