Min-Ovral Generic Formulation
Min-Ovral is a brand name for a combined oral contraceptive containing 0.3 mg norgestrel and 0.03 mg (30 mcg) ethinyl estradiol per tablet 1.
Active Ingredients
The generic formulation of Min-Ovral contains:
- Norgestrel 0.3 mg (progestin component)
- Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg (estrogen component)
This is a low-dose combined hormonal contraceptive (CHC) that falls into the 30 mcg estrogen category.
Generic Equivalents
According to FDA labeling, Lo/Ovral is listed as containing the same formulation and can be used interchangeably 1. The FDA has specifically recognized Lo/Ovral (4 white pills per dose) as safe and effective for emergency contraception purposes, confirming its equivalence to the Min-Ovral formulation 1.
Clinical Context
This combination represents a standard low-dose oral contraceptive formulation. The norgestrel component (0.3 mg) provides the progestational activity, while the 30 mcg ethinyl estradiol provides the estrogenic component necessary for cycle control and contraceptive efficacy.
When prescribing or dispensing, request "norgestrel 0.3 mg/ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg" or specifically "Lo/Ovral" as the generic equivalent.
Important Prescribing Note
If patients experience bleeding irregularities on this formulation, per current guidelines 2, management should explore patient goals first. For those wishing to continue the method, reassurance is appropriate. For those desiring treatment of breakthrough bleeding on CHCs, a hormone-free interval of 3-4 consecutive days may be considered, though this is not recommended during the first 21 days of use or more than once per month as contraceptive effectiveness may be reduced 2.