Activella (Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate)

Do’s

• See a healthcare provider first. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting Activella. They will determine if it's suitable for your condition and prescribe the appropriate dosage.
• Take it as directed. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and frequency (typically once daily). Don't adjust the dose or take it for longer than prescribed.
• Take it with or without food. You have the option of taking Activella with or without food, depending on your preference. Taking it with food may help minimize stomach upset.
• Take it consistently: For best results, take Activella at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of medication in your body.

Don'ts

• Don't take Activella without consulting a healthcare provider.
• Don't increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. This can lead to serious side effects.
• Don't stop taking Activella without talking to your healthcare provider first.
• If your condition doesn't improve or worsens while taking Activella, tell your healthcare provider right away. They might need to adjust your treatment plan.

Common side effects of Activella may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Mood changes
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Weight changes
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Changes in menstrual periods
• Fluid retention

Serious side effects of Activella:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Sudden severe headache or migraine
• Vision changes or loss
• Swelling or pain in the legs
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Severe allergic reaction (abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Activella,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

This includes allergies to Activella itself or any of its inactive ingredients.

Medical history concerns:

• Vaginal bleeding with unknown cause
• Certain cancers (breast, uterus/ovaries)
• Blood clots, stroke, or heart disease (including heart attack)
• Liver or kidney disease
• Family history of breast cancer, blood clots, or a swelling disorder (angioedema)
• Blood clotting disorders
• High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol/triglycerides, or obesity
• Lupus, underactive thyroid, mineral imbalances
• Uterus problems (fibroids, endometriosis)
• Gallbladder disease
• Asthma, seizures, migraines
• Blood disorder (porphyria)
• Mental/mood disorders (dementia, depression)

Do not smoke while using Activella, as it increases risks of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially for women over 35.

Inform your healthcare provider about the upcoming surgery, prolonged bed rest, or plane travel, as these situations increase blood clot risk. You may need to temporarily stop Activella.

Activella may cause skin discoloration (melasma). Limit sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.

Activella may affect vision for some users. Consult your eye healthcare provider if you experience vision problems or trouble wearing contact lenses.

Do not use Activella if pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy.

Activella passes into breast milk and may reduce its quality and quantity. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.