Femicon
Generic Name
Levonorgestrel + Ethinyl Estradiol
Manufacturer
Renata Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| femicon 03 mg tablet | ৳ 45.50 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
A combined oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy. It contains two female hormones, an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (levonorgestrel), which work together to inhibit ovulation and prevent conception.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, starting on the first day of menstruation. Follow with a 7-day pill-free interval. A new pack is started after this 7-day break, regardless of whether bleeding has stopped or not.
Elderly
Not applicable; Femicon is not indicated for post-menopausal women.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment is usually required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution should be exercised in severe cases.
How to Take
Oral administration. Take the tablet at approximately the same time each day, preferably after the evening meal or at bedtime, with some liquid if necessary. It can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Femicon works primarily by inhibiting ovulation, preventing the release of an egg from the ovary. It also alters the cervical mucus, making it thicker and more difficult for sperm to penetrate, and changes the endometrium (lining of the uterus) to make it less receptive to implantation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Contraceptive effect typically starts after 7 consecutive days of active pill use, provided the pills are taken correctly from the first day of menstruation.
Excretion
Metabolites of both hormones are primarily excreted via urine and feces.
Half life
Ethinyl Estradiol: approximately 6-20 hours; Levonorgestrel: approximately 24 hours.
Absorption
Both levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol are rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic metabolism. Ethinyl estradiol undergoes significant first-pass metabolism in the gut wall and liver. Levonorgestrel is also extensively metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •History of arterial or venous thrombotic/thromboembolic events (e.g., deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, myocardial infarction)
- •Known or suspected breast cancer or other estrogen-dependent neoplasia
- •Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding
- •Severe liver disease, liver adenoma or carcinoma
- •Known or suspected pregnancy
- •Uncontrolled hypertension
- •Migraine with focal neurological symptoms (e.g., aura)
- •Diabetes mellitus with vascular involvement
Drug Interactions
Lamotrigine
Oral contraceptives may reduce lamotrigine plasma concentrations, potentially leading to loss of seizure control. Monitor lamotrigine levels.
Certain antibiotics (e.g., Ampicillin, Tetracycline)
May decrease contraceptive effectiveness, though evidence is debated. Backup contraception may be advised.
HIV Protease Inhibitors and Non-nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors
May alter plasma concentrations of estrogen and progestin, requiring dose adjustment or alternative contraception.
Enzyme-inducing drugs (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Barbiturates, St. John's Wort)
May reduce contraceptive effectiveness and increase breakthrough bleeding by accelerating sex hormone metabolism. Use backup contraception.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding in females. There are no specific antidotes; treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Serious adverse effects are not expected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Femicon is contraindicated during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while taking Femicon, discontinue the medication immediately. Lactation: Not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, especially during the first 6 months postpartum, as it may reduce milk production and alter milk composition. Progestin-only contraceptives might be an alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific formulation and storage conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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