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At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Combined Hormonal Contraceptive Pill

02 Generic

No

03 Active ingredient

Ethinylestradiol (synthetic estrogen), Gestodene (synthetic progestogen)

04 Effective within

Dependent on individual usage, typically within 7 days

05 Works by

Inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, altering uterine lining

06 Side effects

Nausea, breast tenderness, changes in menstrual bleeding, headaches, mood swings

MEDICATION DETAILS

Description

Femodette Tablets

Femodette is a combined hormonal contraceptive tablet containing ethinylestradiol and gestodene. It is taken by mouth once daily and is a reliable, convenient method of contraception that does not interrupt sex or require anything to be inserted or placed. It is a medicine that requires a clinician to assess whether it is suitable for you.

How it works

The two hormones work together in three ways. They prevent ovulation, so no egg is released. They thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to pass through. And they thin the lining of the womb. Taken correctly, combined pills are more than 99% effective; in everyday use, effectiveness depends heavily on taking the pill consistently.

How to use it

Take one tablet at the same time each day, following the pattern your clinician has given you, and read the leaflet carefully for what to do if a pill is missed, since that advice depends on which pill in the pack was missed. Vomiting or severe diarrhoea can reduce absorption. Some medicines interact with combined pills, so tell any clinician or pharmacist that you take it.

Who it is for

It is for people who can use combined hormonal contraception, as assessed by a clinician. It is not suitable where there is a history of blood clots, certain migraines with aura, some cancers, significant liver disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure or other risk factors, which is exactly what the assessment checks. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Safety and when to get advice

Headache, breast tenderness, nausea and breakthrough bleeding in the early months are commonly reported and often settle. Seek urgent medical help for pain or swelling in a leg, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, a severe or unusual headache, weakness or numbness on one side, or sudden visual changes. Tell your clinician if you develop migraines with aura or if your blood pressure rises. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

What if I miss a pill?
Follow the missed pill instructions in the leaflet, which depend on where in the pack it happened, and use condoms if advised.

Does it protect against STIs?
No. Condoms are needed for that.

How soon does it start working?
That depends on when in your cycle you start. Your clinician or the leaflet will tell you whether extra cover is needed.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

Following the prescribed dosage and directions is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of Femodette tablets. It is generally recommended to take one tablet orally at the same time every day, ideally with a glass of water. It's advisable to begin your first pack of Femodette tablets on the first day of your menstrual cycle. For continuous protection, you should complete the entire pack, including the placebo tablets, before starting a new pack.
If you miss a tablet or take it more than 12 hours later than usual, additional contraceptive measures may be required. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on how to proceed. Remember that the success of Femodette as a contraceptive relies on consistent and correct usage.

Ingredients

Femodette tablets contain two active ingredients: ethinylestradiol and gestodene. Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic form of estrogen, while gestodene is a synthetic progestogen. The harmonious interaction between these hormones is responsible for the contraceptive effect of Femodette.
Each active tablet of Femodette contains a specific dosage of ethinylestradiol and gestodene. The precise balance of these hormones is crucial for the pill's efficacy in preventing pregnancy.

Side Effects

As with any medication, Femodette may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns
- Headache
- Mood swings
Most of these side effects are mild and tend to subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult your healthcare provider.

Warnings

While Femodette is a highly effective contraceptive option, it's essential to be aware of potential risks and warnings associated with its usage. Certain factors may increase the risk of serious side effects, including:
- Smoking, especially in women over 35 years old
- History of blood clots or related disorders
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Migraine headaches with aura
It's crucial to have an open and honest discussion with your healthcare provider before starting Femodette or any other contraceptive. They will assess your medical history and help determine if Femodette is a suitable option for you.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on Aug 24, 2023, 3:30 pm

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

How effective is Femodette at preventing pregnancy?

When used consistently and correctly, Femodette is a highly effective form of contraception. However, no method is 100% foolproof. Its efficacy depends on following the prescribed dosage and directions.

Can I use Femodette for reasons other than contraception?

While Femodette is primarily used as a contraceptive, healthcare providers sometimes prescribe it for other medical conditions, such as managing irregular menstrual cycles or alleviating certain symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

How do I know if Femodette is right for me?

Deciding if Femodette is suitable for you involves discussing your individual health profile with a healthcare provider. They can provide tailored guidance based on your medical history, lifestyle, and contraceptive needs.

Can I use Femodette with alcohol?

While alcohol consumption does not directly affect the efficacy of Femodette, it may exacerbate side effects. It's advisable to drink alcohol in moderation and consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

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