Desogestrel-Ethinyl Estradiol

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Mar 26, 2024

Common Questions


Common Questions about Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol (Velivet)


Does desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol stop your period?

You should get your period (withdrawal bleeding) during the last week (when you take the last 7 inactive tablets in the 28-tablet pill pack of desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol). It is also common to have some breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods, especially in the first 3 months after starting birth control pills. Tell your doctor if you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding.



How effective is desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol in preventing pregnancy?

When you take your oral contraceptives on a daily basis consistently (perfect use), the pills are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. With typical use (not always consistently or correctly), the risk of an unwanted pregnancy is slightly higher.



What type of birth control pill is Velivet (desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol)?

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol (Velivet) is a triphasic birth control pill, meaning the active tablets contain different amounts of hormones to mimic the natural fluctuations in hormonal levels during your menstrual cycle. It comes in a 28-day blister pack with 21 active tablets and 7 inert tablets.



Is desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol good for PCOS?

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol is sometimes used off-label for the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). 



How much estrogen is in Velivet?

Each active tablet of Velivet contains 25 mcg of ethinyl estradiol and variable amounts of progestin (desogestrel).



Is Velivet good for acne?

Velivet may be used off-label to treat acne. Besides protecting against an unwanted pregnancy, this oral contraceptive also helps to make menstrual periods more regular, reduce PMS symptoms, and treat acne.



What is the price of desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol without insurance?

Without insurance, desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol can be as high as $36.80, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $12.13 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.