Marvelon 28 Day (Desogestrel/Ethinyl Estradiol)

Do’s

• Take Marvelon exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily at the same time each day. This helps maintain consistent hormone levels and effectiveness.
• Follow the instructions on the package to find the first tablet and take them in the correct order. Don't skip doses. Missing pills can decrease effectiveness and increase pregnancy risk.
• Take Marvelon with or without food.
• Keep track of your pills and know when to start a new pack. Start the next pack the day after you finish all the pills in the current pack, regardless of whether you have your period.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take. Some medications can interact with Marvelon and decrease its effectiveness.
• Use a backup birth control method (like condoms) for the first 7 days of your first cycle to ensure effectiveness while your body adjusts to the hormones.
• See your healthcare provider for regular checkups to discuss any concerns and monitor your overall health.

Don'ts

• Don't take Marvelon if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
• Don't smoke cigarettes if you are over 35 years old and taking Marvelon. Smoking significantly increases the risk of blood clots.
• Don't use herbal supplements or other medications without first consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't share your Marvelon with anyone else.
• Don't stop taking Marvelon without talking to your healthcare provider first.

Common Side Effects of Marvelon 28 Day:

• Mood swings and depression (These can be especially concerning if they are new or worsening.)
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods (This is most common during the first few months of use and usually lessens over time.)
• Reduced sex drive

Serious Side Effects of Marvelon 28 Day:

• Blood clots (This is a serious risk associated with birth control pills, including Marvelon 28. The risk is higher for women with certain risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or a personal or family history of blood clots.)
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding (Especially if heavy or prolonged.)
• Severe migraine headaches with aura (Symptoms that affect your sight or nervous system before a migraine)
• Jaundice (Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Marvelon 28 days, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Marvelon increases the risk of blood clots, especially for women with certain risk factors like:

• Family history of blood clots
• Obesity
• Prolonged bed rest or immobilization
• Smoking (especially over 35 years old)

Be aware of symptoms of blood clots and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any, such as:

• Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in a leg or arm
• Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
• Vision problems
• Severe headache
• Difficulty speaking
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body

Some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of certain cancers, like breast cancer, with long-term use of hormonal birth control pills. However, the overall risk is small. Discuss this with your healthcare provider to understand your individual risk.

Marvelon may slightly increase blood pressure. Monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have a history of hypertension.

In rare cases, Marvelon may cause liver problems. Tell your healthcare provider about any history of liver disease.

Severe allergic reactions to Marvelon are uncommon but possible.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, including:

• High blood pressure
• Migraines with aura
• Diabetes
• Liver or kidney disease
• Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
• Planned surgery

Some medications can interact with Marvelon and decrease its effectiveness. Discuss all medications and supplements you take with your healthcare provider.

Do not take Marvelon if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.

Smoking significantly increases the risk of blood clots while using Marvelon. Quitting or avoiding smoking is highly recommended.

Missing pills can decrease effectiveness. Follow the specific instructions for missed pills provided with the medication or by your healthcare provider.

Schedule regular checkups with your healthcare provider to discuss any concerns and monitor your overall health.