Norgestrel: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Labeled uses

Low-Ogestrel® (norgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP, 0.3 mg/0.03 mg) is indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in women who elect to use this product as a method of contraception. Oral contraceptives are highly effective. Table I lists the typical accidental pregnancy rates for users of combination oral contraceptives and other methods of contraception.1 The efficacy of these contraceptive methods, except sterilization, depends upon the reliability with which they are used. Correct and consistent use of methods can result in lower failure rates. TABLE I: PERCENTAGE OF WOMEN EXPERIENCING AN UNINTENDED PREGNANCY DURING THE FIRST YEAR OF A CONTRACEPTIVE METHOD Method | Perfect use | Average use | NA- not available | *Depending on method (calender, ovulation symptothermal, post-ovulation) Adapted from Hatcher RA et al, Contraceptive Technology: 17 th Revised Edition. NY, NY: Ardent Medi, Inc., 1998 | Levonorgestrel implants | 0.05 | 0.05 | Male sterilization | 0.10 | 0.15 | Female sterilization | 0.50 | 0.50 | Depo-Provera® (injectable progestogen) | 0.30 | 0.30 | Oral contraceptive | | 5 |     Combined | 0.10 | NA |     Progestin only | 0.50 | NA | IUD | | |     Progesteron…