Monofeme (Ethinylestradiol And Levonorgestrel)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Monofeme Used For?
Monofeme is a combined oral contraceptive that helps prevent pregnancy.
Primary Uses
Monofeme is primarily used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, altering cervical mucus, and modifying the uterine lining.
How It Works
Monofeme works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and creating an unsuitable environment for implantation.
Good to know: Monofeme is not addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Monofeme
It is important to take Monofeme as directed to ensure its effectiveness.
Dosage Instructions
Take one tablet daily at the same time each day. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it's within 12 hours. If more than 12 hours have passed, take the missed tablet immediately and use additional non-hormonal contraception for the next seven days.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed tablet.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Changes in bleeding patterns
- Painful periods
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in sex drive
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Cramps or bloating
- Mood changes
- Headaches
- Weight changes
- Swelling of hands, ankles, or feet
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Increased body hair
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Blood clots
- Worsening or new onset of migraines/headaches
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Significant rise in blood pressure
- Worsening of existing conditions
Impulse Control Issues
There is a potential risk for impulse control issues, including gambling or spending problems.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations before taking Monofeme.
Who Should Not Take Monofeme
Do not take Monofeme if you are allergic to its ingredients, have a history of thromboembolism, liver disease, or are pregnant.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, migraines, or other serious conditions with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before starting Monofeme.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Monofeme, affecting its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Monofeme works.
- Atorvastatin
- Indinavir
- Itraconazole
- Fluconazole
- Paracetamol
- Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)
- Cyclosporin
- Theophyllines
- Corticosteroids
- Lamotrigine
- Rifampicin
- Antibiotics (ampicillin, penicillins, tetracyclines)
- Barbiturates
- Phenytoin
- Primidone
- Carbamazepine
- Topiramate
- Ritonavir
- Modafinil
- Dexamethasone
- St John's wort
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while taking Monofeme.
Alcohol
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor as it may affect the medication.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Ensure you understand how Monofeme affects you before driving or operating machinery.
Storage
Store Monofeme in a cool, dry place below 25°C, and keep it in its blister pack until use.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, and menstrual bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monofeme starts to work effectively after taking it daily for 7 days.
It does not matter if you take Monofeme before or after food.
No, Monofeme is not addictive.
If you stop taking Monofeme, you may become pregnant if you do not use another form of contraception.
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor as it may affect the medication.
Weight changes can occur, but individual responses may vary.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor for safety considerations.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.