Estarylla is a combination contraceptive medication that contains two female hormones: Ethinyl estradiol and Norgestimate. It works primarily by inhibiting ovulation (preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries), altering the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and modifying the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of a fertilized egg implanting. In addition to its contraceptive use, Estarylla is also prescribed to treat acne in women.
1. What is Estarylla?
Estarylla, with its two components, ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, is used together as a combined contraceptive pill. Ethinyl estradiol is a synthetic estrogen with strong activity, while norgestimate is a third-generation progestin with lower androgenic effects and relatively no estrogenic effects compared to other progestins. As a result, norgestimate may have a positive impact on reducing acne.
Estarylla acts as a combined hormonal contraceptive and can be used for women over 40 years old until menopause. The choice of a hormonal contraceptive method for any given patient should be based on individual contraceptive needs, underlying health conditions, risk factors for side effects, and personal preferences. Like all combined contraceptives, Estarylla increases the risk of forming venous and arterial blood clots, especially in women who smoke. Therefore, this group is not encouraged to use Estarylla.
Additionally, Estarylla, along with similar products, is also approved as an adjunct treatment for acne in premenopausal women.
2. How to use Estarylla?
Estarylla is formulated in tablet form and is taken orally. To minimize nausea, it is recommended to take Estarylla either with or after dinner, or before going to bed. Take it at the same time each day to ensure maximum contraceptive effectiveness and to establish a daily routine.
Estarylla is packaged in a blister pack containing 28 tablets. Of these, 21 tablets contain active hormonal ingredients, and the remaining 7 tablets contain iron or inert components, which are taken at the end of the cycle to maintain a continuous medication regimen.
If a dose is missed, the patient should take it as soon as they remember, and then take the next tablet at the usual time, accepting that they will take two tablets on the same day. Similarly, if two consecutive doses are missed, both pills should be taken, one on the day the missed dose is remembered and one on the following day. After that, the usual schedule should resume. In both cases, the woman should also use a non-hormonal contraceptive method for at least 7 days after restarting the medication to enhance contraceptive effectiveness.
However, if more than 3 consecutive doses are missed, the patient should not take the missed pills but instead restart the medication cycle from the beginning, using a non-hormonal contraceptive method for at least 7 days after restarting the medication.
3. Possible side effects when using Estarylla
Since Estarylla contains hormones, its effects can impact various organs. Therefore, women may notice the following undesirable signs:
• Changes in breast tissue or nipple discharge
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles
• Changes in menstrual patterns
• Breast tenderness
• Coughing up blood
• Dizziness or fainting
• Headaches or migraines
• Pain in the legs, arms, or groin
• Swelling in the legs
• Stomach pain
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Sudden loss of coordination, especially on one side of the body
• Speech problems
• Symptoms of vaginal infections, including itching, irritation, or abnormal discharge
• Upper abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, especially on one side of the body
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Mood changes, anxiety, depression, frustration, anger, or emotional outbursts
• Skin rashes, acne, or increased skin pigmentation
• Weight gain
If any of these symptoms appear suddenly or worsen rapidly, the patient should consult a doctor for prompt intervention. In some cases, discontinuation of the medication and the use of alternative contraception may be necessary.
4. Things to note during the use of Estarylla
During the use of Estarylla, women should remember to have regular health check-ups to detect and identify any abnormalities caused by hormonal effects. It is especially important to examine the breasts and pelvic area, including mammograms and Pap smears.
Estarylla tends to cause fluid retention in loose tissues, which may lead to swelling, particularly in the fingers, hands, or ankles. Additionally, blood pressure may increase. In such cases, consultation with a doctor is necessary to choose an alternative contraceptive method.
Women should also be advised to use an additional contraceptive method during the first cycle of Estarylla use and in case of missed doses.
If there is any reason to suspect pregnancy, stop using this medication immediately and contact a doctor for confirmation.
Estarylla or any hormonal contraceptives should not be used by women who smoke and are over 35 years old, as smoking increases the risk of blood clots or stroke, making these individuals unsuitable for contraceptive use.
Hormonal contraceptives may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid sun exposure by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
If wearing contact lenses and noticing any changes in vision while using contraceptives, consult an eye care specialist.
Some women may experience swollen or bleeding gums when brushing teeth, so it is advisable to visit a dentist to rule out any localized oral diseases. Using a soft toothbrush and flossing regularly can help minimize this issue.
In cases where surgery is required, Estarylla should be discontinued prior to the surgery.
Always remember that Estarylla or similar oral contraceptives do not protect against HIV/AIDS or any other sexually transmitted diseases.
In summary, Estarylla contains a combination of two hormonal components, ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, and is used as an oral hormonal contraceptive by preventing ovulation and altering the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy. However, due to the non-specific hormonal effects on other organs, women need to monitor their health and have regular check-ups to detect any abnormalities and consider switching to a more suitable contraception method.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
References: webmd.com, rxlist.com
