Norgestrel Tablets

What is this medication?

NORGESTREL (nor JESS trel) prevents ovulation and pregnancy. It belongs to a group of medications called contraceptives. It is a progestin hormone. It does not prevent HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ovrette

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• History of cancer
• Liver disease
• Vaginal bleeding between your periods
• An unusual or allergic reaction to norgestrel, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed on the product label at the same time every day. Start the next pack the day after the last pack is finished.

A patient package insert for the product will be inside each package. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. The sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This medication may not work as well if you miss more than one pill. You may need to use a back-up contraceptive.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. Take the next dose at the normal time. If the missed dose is taken more than 3 hours later, use a barrier method, such as a condom or diaphragm, during sex for the next 48 hours.

If you vomit or have severe diarrhea within 4 hours of taking your dose, use a barrier method, such as a condom or diaphragm, during sex for the next 48 hours.

What may interact with this medication?

• Antibiotics, such as rifampin
• Bosentan
• Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
• Certain medications for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin
• Other progestin or estrogen hormones
• St. John's wort
• Ulipristal

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular health checks while on this medication.

Use a another form of contraception, such as a condom, for the first 48 hours after starting this medication.

If you may be pregnant, stop taking this medication right away and contact your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Blood clot—pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg, shortness of breath, chest pain
• Gallbladder problems—severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever
• Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
• New or worsening migraines or headaches
• Stroke—sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, trouble speaking, confusion, trouble walking, loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, severe headache, change in vision
• Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
• Worsening mood, feelings of depression

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Acne
• Breast pain or tenderness
• Headache
• Increase in appetite
• Irregular menstrual cycles or spotting
• Nausea
• Weight gain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.