levonorgestrel-eth estradiol

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

Last Reviewed: Nov 01, 2023

Pros & Cons


Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Pros and Cons

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  • When used exactly as prescribed, levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol combination is very effective in preventing pregnancy.
  • This medicine requires only once-daily dosing.
  • The blister card makes it easy to follow the schedule of 21 active pills followed by 7 inert pills.
  • It is available as a lower-cost generic.
  • Chewable tablets (brand name Tyblume) are available for people who have trouble swallowing pills.

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  • You need to take levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol at the same time every day for it to work well.
  • Birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Hormonal birth control is not safe for women over 35 years of age who are smokers due to the risk of blood clots.