Loestrin (Norethindrone (Norethisterone)/Ethinyl Estradiol)

Name: Loestrin
Brand: Galen
SKU: 5658
Availability: InStock

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Type:

Product: Loestrin (ON BACKORDER)

Manufacturer: Galen

Country: United Kingdom

Dosage: 1.5 mg/30 mcg/63 tab

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Loestrin

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There is no generic product of Loestrin.

Loestrin Information

Loestrin at CanadaPharmacyOnline.com

The manufacturer of Loestrin available at this pharmacy is Galen Limited (Craigavon, United Kingdom), a specialty pharmaceutical company. The Loestrin brand has a long history: it was originally developed in North America by Parke-Davis and is now also marketed in the UK and internationally by Galen. Galen manufactures the brand distributed by this Canadian pharmacy. It contains norethindrone acetate (also known internationally as norethisterone acetate) and ethinyl estradiol.

There is currently no generic equivalent available for Loestrin at this pharmacy.

Dosage:

Loestrin is available in the following oral strengths:
• Loestrin 1.5/30 (Loestrin 30): 21 tablets, each containing 1.5 mg norethindrone acetate and 30 mcg (0.03 mg) ethinyl estradiol.

Loestrin is a 21-day pill. The dosage is one tablet taken orally at the same time each day for 21 consecutive days (3 weeks of active tablets), followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval (no pills are taken during this week), during which withdrawal bleeding typically occurs. After the 7-day break, a new 21-day pack is started. A non-hormonal backup method of contraception should be used for the first 7 days of the first pack. To reduce stomach upset, Loestrin may be taken with food.

Usage:

Loestrin (norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol) is a combination oral contraceptive (COC) indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in women who elect to use oral contraceptives as a method of contraception. As a monophasic formulation, each active tablet contains a fixed dose of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol throughout the 21-day active phase, providing consistent hormone levels throughout the cycle. Non-contraceptive benefits associated with COCs in general may include more regular and lighter periods, reduced menstrual cramping (dysmenorrhea), decreased menstrual blood loss, and reduced risk of ovarian cysts. With long-term use, COCs are also associated with reduced risks of endometrial and ovarian cancers. Loestrin does not protect against HIV (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Mechanism of Action
Loestrin prevents pregnancy through the combined actions of norethindrone acetate (a synthetic progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (a synthetic estrogen). Norethindrone acetate is a first-generation progestin, which is generally associated with a lower risk of venous blood clots compared to newer progestins. The combination of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol prevents pregnancy through three complementary mechanisms – ovulation suppression, cervical mucus thickening, and endometrial changes. This makes it significantly more difficult for sperm to penetrate and travel to the upper reproductive tract, where fertilization could occur. The combined hormones also alter the endometrial lining of the uterus, making it thinner and less receptive to implantation of a fertilized egg, providing a further safety mechanism.

Take Loestrin exactly as your doctor prescribes, following the instructions in the highlights of prescribing information. Take 1 tablet at the same time each day for 21 consecutive days, then take none for 7 days. Start a new pack on the 8th day, regardless of whether your period has ended.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before starting Loestrin, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential side effects of Loestrin (norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common side effects: These are common side effects of Loestrin; other side effects are possible. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
• Acne (may improve or worsen)
• Bloating or fluid retention (swelling of the hands or feet)
• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods, especially during the first few months
• Changes in menstrual flow. Periods may become lighter or shorter, or may be missed occasionally.
• Darkening of facial skin (chloasma or melasma), especially with sun exposure. May persist after stopping.
• Fatigue
• Loss of scalp hair or increased body hair growth
• Mood changes, including irritability or depressed mood
• Nausea or vomiting (particularly when first starting; taking the pill with food can help)

Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services if you experience any of the following:
• Anaphylaxis: Hives, rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Blood Clots: Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in the leg; sudden shortness of breath; chest pain; coughing up blood.
• Change in Migraine Pattern: A new or significantly worsened migraine, or migraines with aura (visual disturbances, numbness, or weakness), requires prompt medical evaluation.
• Liver Problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, or severe upper abdominal pain. Discontinue Loestrin if jaundice develops.
• Severe Abdominal Pain: Sudden or severe pain in the abdomen may indicate a serious liver condition (hepatic adenoma) or gallbladder disease.
• Stroke or Heart Attack: Sudden severe headache, sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body), sudden confusion or difficulty speaking, sudden vision changes or loss, chest pain spreading to the arm or jaw, cold sweat.
• Vision Changes: Sudden unexplained loss of vision, blurred vision, or double vision. Stop the medication immediately and seek an eye examination, as this may indicate retinal vascular changes.

Contraindications:

The following is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Before starting Loestrin, it is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not take Loestrin/norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol if:
• Allergies: Known hypersensitivity to norethindrone acetate, ethinyl estradiol, or any other ingredient in the tablet.
• Blood Clot History (Thrombophlebitis or Thromboembolic Disorders)
• Breast Cancer or Hormone-Sensitive Cancer: A known or suspected current diagnosis, or history of, breast cancer, or other estrogen-dependent neoplasms.
• Cerebrovascular or Coronary Artery Disease: A history of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), myocardial infarction (heart attack), or known coronary artery disease.
• Cholestatic Jaundice: A history of cholestatic jaundice of pregnancy (intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy) or jaundice associated with prior use of oral contraceptives.
• Cigarette Smoking and Age: You are over 35 years of age and smoke cigarettes. Cigarette smoking combined with oral contraceptive use significantly increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, including heart attack, blood clots, and stroke.
• Liver Tumors or Active Liver Disease
• Pregnancy: Loestrin is contraindicated during pregnancy. Discontinue immediately if pregnancy is confirmed.
• Undiagnosed Abnormal Genital Bleeding

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, past and present, before starting Loestrin. The following conditions require extra monitoring or special caution:
• A history of depression or mood disorders
• Conditions prone to fluid retention (e.g., mild heart disease or kidney disease)
• Diabetes mellitus — COCs like Loestrin may decrease glucose tolerance
• Gallbladder disease
• Hereditary angioedema
• Hyperlipidaemia
• Hypertension
• Renal impairment

Drug Interactions:

Before taking Loestrin, discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete prescribing information, please refer to the product monograph at https://pdf.hres.ca/dpd_pm/00049239.PDF.

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, herbal supplements, recreational drugs, and any significant dietary changes, as these may interact with Loestrin. Loestrin may interact with other medicines, including but not limited to:
• Acitretin (a retinoid used for psoriasis): Decreases the effectiveness of norethindrone acetate by an unknown mechanism.
• Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin (cholesterol medications): Co-administration may increase the amount of ethinyl estradiol in the blood.
• Cyclosporine, Theophylline, and Prednisolone: Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the metabolism of these drugs, increasing their blood concentrations and the potential for side effects.
• CYP3A4 Enzyme Inducers (Drugs That May Reduce Contraceptive Effectiveness): such as certain anticonvulsants/anti-epileptics (phenytoin, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, felbamate, phenobarbital, primidone); the antibiotic rifampin (rifampicin); certain HIV antiretroviral drugs (e.g., ritonavir, nelfinavir, lopinavir, nevirapine); certain antifungals; and the herbal supplement St. John’s Wort. Use a non-hormonal backup method of contraception when using these drugs concurrently with Loestrin.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Drugs That May Increase Hormone Levels): Itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, and grapefruit juice may increase plasma concentrations of ethinyl estradiol, potentially increasing estrogen-related side effects.
• HIV Antiretrovirals and Hepatitis C Drugs, such as ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir with or without dasabuvir, significantly alter Loestrin levels in the blood. Consult your doctor and consider non-hormonal contraception.
• Lamotrigine (an anticonvulsant): COCs, including Loestrin, significantly decrease lamotrigine levels. Conversely, stopping Loestrin may cause lamotrigine levels to rise significantly. Always consult a neurologist.
• Vitamin C and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol/Tylenol): May increase ethinyl estradiol concentrations if taken regularly in high doses. Loestrin may reduce the effectiveness of acetaminophen.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Loestrin is contraindicated during pregnancy. It must be discontinued immediately if pregnancy is confirmed. After several months of use, some women may experience reduced or absent withdrawal bleeding. If withdrawal bleeding does not occur during the pill-free week, the possibility of pregnancy should be considered. If you miss two consecutive withdrawal bleeds, contact your doctor. Loestrin is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Small amounts of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol are excreted in breast milk. Estrogen-containing COCs can decrease the quantity and quality of breast milk.

Use in Children:

Loestrin is not indicated for use before menarche (the onset of the first menstrual period). This medication is not approved for use in children under 14 years of age.

Frequently Asked Questions about Loestrin at Canada Pharmacy Online

Why is Loestrin more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including Loestrin, are generally lower in Canada than in the U.S. due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower prices than in the U.S., where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy is dedicated to offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.

How do I place an order with your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1.866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

Is there a limit on how many Loestrin I can order at once?

CanadaPharmacyOnline.com can dispense up to a three-month supply of Loestrin per prescription from your doctor.

Can I buy Loestrin from you over the counter?

No, Loestrin requires a valid prescription from your doctor. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.

Do you ship to the United States?

Yes, we do. It usually takes between 7 and 18 business days to receive your order from our pharmacy.

Is there a generic for Loestrin?

No, the generic alternative is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).

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The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

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