Combination Pills: Contain estrogen and progestin to regulate hormones.
Brief information about it:
Combination pills are a type of oral contraceptive that contain both estrogen and progestin. They work to prevent pregnancy by preventing the release of an egg (ovulation), thickening the cervical mucus to block sperm, and changing the lining of the uterus to make it less hospitable for a fertilized egg.
Uses:
· Birth control: Combination pills are primarily used to prevent pregnancy.
· Hormone regulation: They can also be used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce menstrual cramps.
· Acne treatment: In some cases, combination pills may be prescribed to treat acne.
Mechanism of action:
As mentioned earlier, combination pills work by:
- Preventing ovulation: The estrogen and progestin in the pills prevent the release of an egg from the ovary.
- Thickening cervical mucus: The thickened mucus acts as a barrier to sperm, preventing them from reaching the egg.
- Altering the uterine lining: The lining of the uterus becomes less receptive to a fertilized egg.
Elimination half life:
The elimination half-life of estrogen and progestin varies depending on the specific type of combination pill. However, on average, it takes about 24 hours for half of the medication to be eliminated from your body.
Route of Administration:
Combination pills are taken orally, usually once a day.
Side effects:
Combination pills may cause some side effects, including:
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Headaches
- Weight gain
- Spotting between periods
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased risk of blood clots
Dose:
The appropriate dose of combination pills will depend on your individual needs and medical history. Your healthcare provider will determine the best dose for you.
Precautions:
Before taking combination pills, it’s important to discuss any potential risks with your healthcare provider. Some precautions include:
- History of blood clots: If you have a history of blood clots, you may be at increased risk.
- High blood pressure: Combination pills can raise blood pressure.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of blood clots, especially in women over 35.
- Liver disease: If you have liver problems, combination pills may need to be adjusted.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Combination pills should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
