| drug details | | name | Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) | | Classification | Hormonal Contraceptives | | Pharmacokinetics | COCs contain estrogen and progestin, which are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and enter the bloodstream. The hormones bind to receptors in the body, suppressing ovulation and affecting the uterine lining, thus preventing pregnancy. Variations in formulation (types of estrogen and progestin, dosage) affect the specific pharmacokinetic profile. First-pass metabolism plays a role, and the duration of action is determined by the hormone levels within the pill. | | suggested dosage | Dosage varies greatly depending on the specific COC formulation. A typical regimen involves one pill daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day placebo or low-dose hormone period to induce menstruation. Consult the product information for your specific COC. | | indications | Primary indication: Contraception. Other potential indications (often requiring discussion with a physician): Regulation of menstrual cycles, treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), management of acne, hirsutism, and other hormonal imbalances. | | safety in pregnancy | Absolutely contraindicated if pregnant. If a woman becomes pregnant while taking COCs, she should discontinue immediately and seek medical advice. | | safety in breastfeeding | COCs may affect breast milk production and composition. Consult with a healthcare professional about potential effects on breastfeeding. | | side effects | | 1 | Nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes, weight fluctuations, fluid retention | | 2 | Blood clots (venous thromboembolism - VTE, or arterial thromboembolism), stroke, heart attack (risk factors may increase with age, smoking, or existing conditions) | | 3 | Increased blood pressure, increased risk of gallbladder disease | | 4 | Rarely: liver tumors, jaundice, allergic reactions, depression, or other severe side effects |
| | alternatives | | | contraindications | | 1 | History of blood clots (venous or arterial) | | 2 | Known or suspected thrombophilia | | 3 | History of stroke or heart attack | | 4 | Uncontrolled high blood pressure | | 5 | Severe liver disease | | 6 | Known estrogen-dependent cancers | | 7 | Known or suspected pregnancy | | 8 | Smokers over a certain age | | 9 | Migraines with aura |
| | interactions | | 1 | Certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, antifungals, anticonvulsants, some herbal remedies) may reduce the effectiveness of COCs. | | 2 | Certain medications can increase the risk of blood clots when used in conjunction with COCs. |
| | warnings and precautions | | 1 | Regular check-ups are important during COC use to monitor blood pressure, weight, and potential side effects. | | 2 | Women with certain risk factors for blood clots (e.g., smoking, obesity, family history) should be especially cautious. | | 3 | Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication while using COCs. | | 4 | Report any unusual symptoms (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headaches) immediately. | | 5 | COCs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. |
| | additional informations | | 1 | COCs are highly effective but not perfect. Consistent usage is crucial. | | 2 | Specific COC formulations exist and should be prescribed by a medical professional according to individual needs. | | 3 | Weight and age are important factors, but the final decision on COC type and dosage is best made by a physician who can assess individual health risks and needs. |
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