Before taking progestogen-only contraceptive tablets

Before taking progestogen-only contraceptive tablets make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant.
• If you have liver problems.
• If you have had breast cancer or a cancer that you have been told is dependent on a sex steroid.
• If you suffer from ovarian cysts or vaginal bleeding other than your normal monthly period.
• If you suffer from the blood disorder porphyria.
• If you suffer from a condition that upsets the absorption of food (such as coeliac disease, cystic fibrosis or pancreatitis).
• If you have arterial disease (severe circulation problems).
• If you have ever had an ectopic pregnancy or if you have experienced jaundice during a previous pregnancy.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a contraceptive tablet or to any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines. This is because some medicines interfere with the way this contraceptive works.

How to take progestogen-only contraceptive tablets

• If you are taking this particular pill for the first time, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet carefully.
• Progestogen-only contraceptive tablets are taken every day without a break. You must take your tablet at exactly the same time each day and it is important not to miss any doses.
• If you forget to take your pill on time, take it as soon as you remember and continue to take it as normal.
• If you are more than three hours late taking your pill you will not be protected against pregnancy (except if you are taking Cerazette®, in which case if you are more than 12 hours late, you will not be protected). In such cases, take a tablet as soon as you remember and continue taking it as normal but you must also use another method of contraception such as a condom for the next 2 days. Read the paragraph in the manufacturer's information leaflet which will be headed 'what to do if you forget to take your tablet'. If you are unsure about what to do, or if you need further advice, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Getting the most from your treatment

• To help decide whether this contraceptive tablet is suitable for you, your doctor will assess your general health. If you have an existing medical condition your health may need to be more closely monitored. The manufacturer's leaflet lists the conditions that may need to be taken into consideration. Make sure you tell your doctor if you suffer from any of these.
• Always attend your regular appointments with the doctor or nurse. Your doctor may want you to have regular blood pressure checks and pelvic or breast examinations while you are taking these tablets.
• If you suspect that you may be pregnant, stop taking the tablets and make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.
• Some medicines can reduce the effectiveness of this pill. These include antiepileptics, antifungals, the herbal preparation St. John's wort, and medicines used to treat tuberculosis (TB). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you are given any other medicines.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment or medical tests, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking the 'mini-pill'.
• If you are sick or have severe diarrhoea within 2 hours of taking a tablet, you should take another as soon as possible. If a replacement tablet is not taken within 3 hours of your normal time for taking the pill (or 12 hours if you are taking Cerazette®), you will need to use an additional method of contraception such as a condom during the illness and for 2 days after your recovery.

Can progestogen-only contraceptive tablets cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Make sure you read the guidelines in the manufacturer's leaflet which gives the reasons for stopping taking these tablets. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, tell your doctor.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store progestogen-only contraceptive tablets

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)