Mircette

Mircette Medication Information Leaflet

Common Use

Mircette is commonly used as an oral contraceptive to prevent pregnancy. It is also prescribed to treat moderate acne for women aged at least 14 years and have started their menstrual period.

Classification

Mircette is classified as a combination hormonal contraceptive, specifically a combination birth control pill that contains two hormones, ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel, which prevent ovulation and also cause changes in your cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.

Generic Ingredient

Mircette's generic ingredients, ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel, are available in Australia as other brand names or generic counterparts.

Certification Information

Mircette is approved for use in several countries including the United States.

Known Alternatives in Australia

Alternative medications with similar effects to Mircette that may be available in Australia include Yaz, Yasmin, and Ortho Tri-Cyclen.

Clinical Use

Mircette is used for birth control and to treat acne in women.

Spectrum Of Activity

Mircette primarily works as a contraceptive by preventing ovulation and affecting the cervical mucus and uterine lining.

Drug interaction

Mircette may interact with other medications such as certain antibiotics, medicines for seizures, HIV or AIDS, barbiturates, bosentan, and others. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Contraindications and Precautions

Mircette is contraindicated in pregnant women, those with a history of blood clots, liver disease, certain types of cancers, and uncontrolled high blood pressure. Precautions should be taken in women who smoke and are over 35, have a history of depression, and other conditions. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Possible side effect

Possible side effects of Mircette may include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, breakthrough bleeding, mood changes, weight changes, and others. If any concerning side effects occur, seek medical attention.

Dosage and Directions

The typical dosage of Mircette is one tablet daily, at the same time each day, for 28 days. Follow the package instructions for the correct starting time, and take the pills in the correct order. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized instructions.

Missed dose and Overdose

If a dose of Mircette is missed, follow the instructions provided with the medication. Overdose of Mircette may cause nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding. Seek medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Mircette at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Known Non-standard Use

Mircette is not indicated for non-standard use, and its use should be limited to its approved indications.

Patient Considerations

Patients should be educated about the proper use of Mircette, including how to take it at the same time each day and what to do in case of a missed dose. They should also be advised about potential side effects and when to seek medical help.

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy

Mircette is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Additionally, it is not advised for use while breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider for suitable alternatives if pregnancy or breastfeeding is a concern.

Possible Risks

Mircette carries the risk of increasing the risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and some cancers. These risks are especially increased in women who smoke and are older than 35 years. Consider the potential risks and benefits before starting Mircette, and consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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Mircette FAQ

How does Mircette work?

Mircette is a combination birth control pill that works by preventing ovulation, changing the cervical mucus, and the lining of the uterus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg and for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.

What are the common side effects of Mircette?

Common side effects of Mircette may include nausea, vomiting, headaches, breast tenderness, bloating, and changes in weight or appetite.

Is it safe to take Mircette for acne?

Mircette is approved for the prevention of pregnancy. However, some women may experience improvement in acne while taking Mircette, but it is not specifically approved to treat acne.

How should I take Mircette?

Mircette should be taken exactly as prescribed by the healthcare provider. It is usually taken once daily with or without food.

Can Mircette interact with other medications?

Mircette may interact with certain medications like aromatase inhibitors, tamoxifen, tizanidine, and others. It's important to inform the healthcare provider about all the medications being taken before starting Mircette.

Are there any serious risks associated with Mircette?

Like all birth control pills, Mircette carries the risk of serious side effects such as blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and liver problems. The risk is higher for women who smoke and are over 35 years old.

How effective is Mircette in preventing pregnancy?

When taken as directed, Mircette is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Mircette?

If a dose of Mircette is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. If more than 24 hours have passed, it's important to use a backup form of birth control and consult the healthcare provider.

Can Mircette cause weight gain?

While some women may experience changes in weight or appetite while taking Mircette, there is no direct evidence linking Mircette to significant weight gain.

Is it normal to experience irregular bleeding while taking Mircette?

Some women may experience irregular bleeding or spotting, especially during the first few months of taking Mircette. If this persists or is bothersome, it's important to consult the healthcare provider.