From the Guidelines
Ortho Tricyclen is a combination hormonal birth control pill used primarily to prevent pregnancy and treat moderate acne in females. It contains two hormones, ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and norgestimate (a progestin), which work together to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to block sperm, and thin the uterine lining to prevent implantation 1. The standard regimen involves taking one pill daily for 21 days followed by 7 days of placebo pills, during which menstruation typically occurs. Ortho Tricyclen is also FDA-approved for treating moderate acne in females who are at least 15 years old and have started menstruating, as it has anti-androgenic properties that decrease ovarian androgen production, increase sex hormone-binding globulin, and reduce free testosterone 1. Some key points to consider when prescribing Ortho Tricyclen include:
- It is most effective in preventing pregnancy when taken at the same time each day, with a success rate of over 99% when used perfectly 1.
- Common side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, and spotting between periods, especially during the first few months of use.
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so barrier methods like condoms are recommended for STI prevention.
- It is recommended to counsel patients on strategies to promote daily adherence, such as cell phone alarms and support from a family member or partner, as typical use failure rates are 9% in adults and may be higher in adolescents 1. Overall, Ortho Tricyclen is a safe and effective option for preventing pregnancy and treating moderate acne in females, as long as it is used correctly and consistently.
From the FDA Drug Label
Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tabletsis a birth control pill (oral contraceptive) used by women to prevent pregnancy. The FDA drug label does not mention "Ortho Tricyclen" but mentions that Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets are used for birth control or to prevent pregnancy 2, 2, 2.
- The main use is for contraception.
- Ortho Tricyclen is not mentioned in the provided drug labels.
From the Research
Ortho Tricyclen Overview
- Ortho Tricyclen is a triphasic oral contraceptive containing norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol 3, 4, 5
- It is designed to suppress ovulation and provide cycle control 3, 4
Mechanism of Action
- The combination of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in Ortho Tricyclen works by inhibiting ovulation and altering cervical mucus to prevent sperm penetration 6, 4
- Norgestimate has a high affinity for the progesterone receptor, which contributes to its contraceptive effects 4, 7
Efficacy and Safety
- Ortho Tricyclen has been shown to be highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with a low Pearl index 4
- It has also been found to have a good safety profile, with minimal androgenic effects and a favorable impact on metabolic parameters 4, 7, 5
- Common side effects include breakthrough bleeding and spotting, but these are generally comparable to or less than those experienced with other oral contraceptives 3, 5
Comparison to Other Oral Contraceptives
- Ortho Tricyclen has been compared to other oral contraceptives, including monophasic and triphasic regimens, and has been found to have similar or superior efficacy and safety profiles 3, 4, 5
- It has also been found to have a more favorable effect on lipid profiles and user satisfaction compared to some other oral contraceptives 5