SEASONALE® is an FDA approved oral contraceptive which allows a woman to have only just 4 menstrual periods each year. It contains two hormones namely; ethinyl estradiol which is a synthetic estrogen and levonorgestrel which is a progestin (a synthetic progesterone). This is the same combination found in any other pill formulations. Other pill formulations only have 21 pills while seasonale has 84 active pills in a row; this is the reason why you can have only 4 menstrual cycles in a year. The active pills are taken daily for a period of three months rather than three weeks. It has 99% effectiveness when taken properly. It is a low dose hormone pill with levels equal or lower than most other oral contraceptives.

Seasonale Directions

 

Follow your doctor's directions for using Seasonale or consult the patient information leaflet for more information. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any questions before beginning Seasonale.

 

Start taking Seasonale on the first Sunday after your period begins, unless your doctors specifies a different start date. If you start your period on a Sunday, take the first Seasonale pill on that day. It is important to take your Seasonale pill at the same time each day and never to take it more than 24 hours apart. When you take the last pill in a pack, start the first pill of a new pack the very next day. Never let time lapse between pill packs. Store Seasonale at room temperate, away from high temperatures or direct sunlight.

 

Seasonale cannot work effectively if you do not take it every day. Never skip doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, you may take two doses on the same day. If you miss two active pills, take two pills on the day you remember, and take two more pills on the following day. Then you can return to your normal dosage schedule on the next day. If you miss a dose, you should use a back up form of birth control such as condoms or spermicide for at least seven days. If you miss three or more doses of active pills, leave the missed pills in the pack and keep taking one pill each day until the pack is completed. Use backup methods of birth controls for one week. If you miss a dose of inactive pills, throw them away and resume your normal dosing schedule. You do not need a backup form of birth control when you miss an inactive pill. If you have questions regarding a missed dosage, talk to your doctor or pharamacist.

 

Seasonale Side Effects

 

Known side effects of seasonale include nausea, break through bleeding, weight change and breast tenderness. These side effects may occur and may start fading away as you continue with the use of the contraceptive. When these side effects persist however, your doctor must be informed immediately. Though it is not likely to develop an allergic reaction to the pill, if ever it occurs, as well as if there are other effects you experience which are not mentioned here, you must also inform your doctor immediately .

 

Seasonale Precautions

 

Some common side effects may occur and go away during the use of Seasonale. These include stomach upset, vomiting, increased vaginal discharge, weight gain or loss, and breast tenderness. If these become bothersome, talk to your doctor. It is vital to talk to your doctor immediately if you have persistent or reoccurring episodes of abnormal vaginal bleeding, or if you develop dark patches on your skin. See a doctor immediately if you experience swelling in your fingers or ankles. You should also seek medical attention if you notice mental or mood changes, sudden depression, headaches, or difficulty wearing contact lenses.

Allergic reactions when taking Seasonale are rare, but if you experience symptoms, seek a doctor. Symptoms of allergic reactions could include respiratory distress, swelling, itching, rash, or dizziness.

 

 

Drug Interactions with Seasonale

 

Talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are currently using before starting Seasonale. This is especially important if you are taking medication for the treatment of seizures, antibiotics, HIV protease inhibitors, acetaminophen, aspirin, clofibric acid, modafinil, troglitazone, or azole antifungals. Talk to your doctor about all medications you take, whether they are prescription or over the counter drugs. Seasonale can effect some lab tests so make sure you let your doctor and lab personnel know when you are taking Seasonale before lab work is performed. Do not start or stop taking Seasonale without first consulting your doctor.

 

 

Seasonale Notes

 

Seasonale is a form of birth control, but it DOES NOT protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Use a condom to help prevent STD's. Do not share this medication with others. Maintain all regular doctor's appointments while taking Seasonale. You should have yearly physicals, pap smears, pelvic exams, and breast health checks while taking this medication.