Ethinyl Estradiol & Levonorgestrel
Seasonale
Seasonale is an FDA-approved contraceptive medication to prevent pregnancy. This medication is a combination of Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel, which are female hormones designed to inhibit ovulation, preventing the exact release of an egg from the ovary. In addition to their contraceptive function, this, Seasonale for menstrual cycle management, reducing blood loss, and alleviating menstrual pain is also found to be effective. Seasonale can be taken orally and available in packets. In one packet, there are 91 tablets: 84 pink ones with hormones Levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) & Ethinyl Estradiol (0.03 mg) and 7 white ones without hormones. So, if you want to buy Seasonale for birth control online from a Canadian Pharmacy, you need to get the prescription from your doctor first.
Product Overview
Seasonale is an FDA-approved oral contraceptive medication that prevents pregnancy by combining ethinyl estradiol (a synthetic estrogen) and levonorgestrel (a synthetic progestin). These hormones work by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining, thereby preventing fertilization. In addition to contraception, Seasonale helps regulate menstrual cycles, reduce blood loss, alleviate menstrual pain, and may also treat moderate acne and menopausal symptoms.
Each pack contains 91 tablets: 84 pink active tablets (containing hormones) and 7 white inert tablets. For effective use, take one pink tablet daily at the same time for 84 consecutive days, followed by 7 days of white tablets. Seasonale can be started on the first day of the menstrual period or the first Sunday after it begins. During the white tablet phase, users may experience withdrawal bleeding, which is a common and expected occurrence.
Like many other medications, Seasonale has common side effects, including breast tenderness, nausea, and headaches. Serious effects, although rare, may include chest pain and fluid-filled skin blisters. Smokers, individuals with liver disease, or those with specific health conditions should avoid using Seasonale. If a Seasonale dose is missed, patients should follow the instructions for use provided with the medication to ensure continued effectiveness. Store Seasonale at room temperature, shielded from light and extreme temperature fluctuations.
What Are the Uses of Seasonale?
Seasonale is used for the following purposes:
- Used to prevent pregnancy.
- Makes periods more regular.
- Reduces blood loss and painful periods.
- Lowers the risk of ovarian cysts.
- Effectively treats moderate acne.
- Alleviates hot flashes and night sweats during menopause.
- It can be used as emergency contraception when taken within the specified time after unprotected sex.
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Seasonale?
Seasonale is an extended-cycle oral contraceptive tablet consisting of 91 tablets in one packet:
84 Pink Tablets: Levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) & Ethinyl Estradiol (0.03 mg)
7 White Inert Tablets: No Hormones
What Is the Recommended Dosage of Seasonale?
The dosage of Seasonale for monthly period management varies from person to person and is based on their health needs and medical history. Women should follow the instructions given by their healthcare professionals to ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of unwanted side effects. The recommended dosage for Seasonale is as follows:
Starting Seasonale:
- Begin taking Seasonale either on the first day of your period or the first Sunday after it starts.
- Consider using backup birth control, like condoms or spermicide, in the beginning, as advised by your doctor.
Daily Dosage:
- Take one pink (active) tablet every day, around the same time, for 84 consecutive days.
Follow-up:
- After finishing the 84-day cycle, take the white (inert) tablets for 7 days.
- You might have withdrawal bleeding, similar to a period, during this time.
[Note: Remember, these above-mentioned recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist, and they’ll customize your Seasonale dosage accordingly.]
What Is the Correct Way to Take Seasonale?
Before using Seasonale for menstrual cycle management, follow all instructions on your patient information leaflet (PIL) and if available, the medication guide which came along with your prescription. If you have any doubts regarding the use of Seasonale or if you have difficulty understanding any part of the instructions for use, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.
- Take seasonale orally by mouth, usually once daily, exactly as your doctor has prescribed. To help you remember to take it, you should pick a time of the day that is most convenient for you and take the tablet at the same time each day.
- Do not use it less or more than recommended by your doctor, in large quantities, or more frequently than prescribed, as it can cause unwanted side effects.
- Before using Seasonale, properly wash your hands with soap and water and follow this for subsequent 91-day courses.
- The 91-day Seasonale pack contains three trays with cards that hold 84 active tablets and seven reminder tablets.
- You should follow the package instructions to find the first pill in the blister pack. You will take it on the first day of your menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after your period starts.
- Continue taking one pill every day in a certain order to keep you on a regular cycle without missing a dose. Do not keep a gap of more than 24 hours between each dose.
- Swallow the Seasonale tablet whole with a sip of water; do not crush or chew unless advised.
- If this is your first time using Seasonale, you may need to use a backup contraceptive method, such as a spermicide or condoms, during the first week of starting using Seasonale.
- You will not have a period every month while you are using an extended-cycle contraceptive pill. Instead, your period should occur every twelve weeks. Your menstrual period will begin while you are using the reminder tablets. After using the last reminder pill, start using a new pack regardless of whether you have had your period or not. If you do not get your period, you should consult your doctor.
- You may have breakthrough bleeding during the initial three months. If you have persistent or heavy bleeding, let your doctor or healthcare provider know.
- Visit your physician on a regular basis while using Seasonale.
- If you experience vomiting or diarrhea, your birth control pills may not work as well as they should, and you may need to use a backup birth control method.
- If you have stomach upset or nausea, you can take it after your evening meal or at bedtime.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
What Is the Mechanism of Action of Seasonale?
Seasonale (Levonorgestrel – Ethinyl Estradiol) is a special kind of birth control pill that has both progestin (levonorgestrel) and estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). People take it to avoid getting pregnant. This pill stops pregnancy by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary and by making it hard for sperm to get through the cervix mucus and for an egg to attach itself.
Important Safety Information for Using Seasonale
What Are the Side Effects of Seasonale?
Common side effects of Seasonale: Similar to other hormonal contraceptive medicines, Seasonale also causes certain temporary side effects that resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention.
- Nausea: This is a common side effect of Seasonale, which occurs due to the hormonal changes caused by the medication. In particular, the estrogen can irritate the lining of the stomach or slow down digestion, causing a sensation of nausea. To reduce the chance of nausea, you should take Seasonale tablets with food or at bedtime. If the nausea persists or becomes bothersome, you should consult your doctor.
- Breast Tenderness: Seasonale contains synthetic estrogen, which can affect the breast tissue, causing it to become sore, swollen, or more sensitive. Typically, this side effect disappears after a few weeks of use as the body adapts to the medicine. If the tenderness is severe or lasts for an extended period, get in touch with your doctor to discuss alternative contraception methods.
- Headaches: These are triggered by the hormonal fluctuations caused by Seasonale. They are usually noticeable during the first few months of starting treatment with this medication. They are usually temporary and resolve on their own without any medical intervention. If headaches become persistent or severe, talk to your healthcare professional, as it may indicate the need for a different form of contraception or a change in dosage.
- Breakthrough Bleeding: This is one of the most common side effects of Seasonale, which most likely occurs during the first few months of starting to use the oral contraceptive medication. The extended cycle of Seasonale can disrupt the normal uterine lining, leading to bleeding outside the scheduled breaks. It is often temporary, with bleeding typically stopping after the first 3 to 6 months of use. If the bleeding persists or becomes heavy, talk to your doctor. They are most likely to adjust the dosage or switch to another contraceptive method.
- Mood Changes: Seasonale may cause mood swings, irritability, and even symptoms of depression. Some women may also feel more emotional, anxious, or sad, especially during the initial few months of starting the medication. To manage mood changes, you should do regular physical exercise, practice stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, and maintain a balanced diet.
- Weight Changes: While this side effect is mild and can vary from person to person, it may be distressing for some women. To manage weight changes, you should follow a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity. If you have significant weight gain, you should speak with your doctor to discuss whether you should use a different contraceptive method.
- Changes in Libido: Hormonal contraceptive medications, like Seasonale, can alter the body’s hormonal levels, which can affect sexual desire. If this is persistent, you should discuss alternative birth control methods with your doctor.
Serious side effects of Seasonale: In rare cases, Seasonale can cause severe side effects that require immediate medical intervention and can become fatal if not promptly treated. Your doctor has recommended you use Seasonale because they have determined that its benefits justify the risks associated with its use. You should call your medical provider or 911 if you experience any of the following side effects.
- Blood clots: Seasonale can increase the chance of blood clots, particularly in people with certain risk factors. Its symptoms include a sudden loss of vision, pain in the chest, legs, or groin, and sudden shortness of breath. If left untreated, symptoms of blood clots can cause severe complications such as pulmonary embolism or stroke.
- Heart attack: Although rare, the hormonal changes caused by Seasonale can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks. Symptoms of a heart attack may include angina (chest pain), pain in the shoulder/arm, nausea, vomiting, and cold sweats. If you have any of these symptoms, seek medical emergency assistance. To prevent and manage a heart attack, you should stay physically active, maintain a balanced diet, and monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure levels regularly.
- High blood pressure: This medication can cause a significant increase in the blood pressure in some people using it. If your blood pressure elevates significantly while using Seasonale, you should consult your doctor. They are most likely to advise you to use an alternative form of contraception or recommend a strategy to manage hypertension.
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, Seasonale can cause allergic reactions in some people who use it. Its symptoms may include trouble breathing, shortness of breath, hives, and swelling of the eyes, mouth, lips, or throat. To prevent this, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients listed in the product before starting to use it.
- Liver problems: This medication may cause hepatic problems, which can manifest with symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, weight loss, reduced appetite, dark-colored urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor as liver dysfunction can be serious and may require Seasonale discontinuation.
- Stroke symptoms: Though rare, this can be due to the reaction of the body to the medication. Its symptoms include sudden severe headache, loss of coordination, slurred speech, weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body, unexplained pain, or difficulty walking. Seek emergency medical assistance promptly if you experience any of these signs and symptoms. To reduce your chance of developing a stroke, you should manage underlying conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. If you have a family history of stroke, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Vision loss: This medication can cause vision disturbances, such as partial or complete vision loss, which may be related to blood flow changes or pressure in the eyes or due to other underlying conditions that could be exacerbated by hormonal contraceptives. If you experience sudden vision changes, discontinue using Seasonale and seek medical assistance.
- Severe neurological symptoms: In rare cases, hormonal contraceptives like Seasonale can trigger neurological side effects such as severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, difficulty walking, weakness or numbness in the arms/legs, excessive sweating, or loss of coordination. These symptoms may indicate a severe reaction, such as a stroke or a neurological disorder, and should be treated immediately.
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Seasonale?
- Before using this medication, inform your physician or pharmacist if you have ever had an allergic reaction to ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel, other estrogens, or progestins, or if you have any other known allergies. Seasonale may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications. If you are not aware of the ingredients this product contains, ask your doctor to give you the complete list of ingredients present in the medication.
- Before using Seasonale, disclose your medical and personal history to your doctor or healthcare provider, particularly if you have the following conditions:
- Blood clots (e.g., in the legs, lungs, or eyes)
- Clotting disorders (e.g., protein C or protein S deficiency)
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal breast exams
- Certain types of cancer (particularly endometrial or breast cancer)
- High cholesterol or triglyceride levels
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Angioedema (family or personal history of swelling disorders)
- Gallbladder issues
- Severe headaches or migraines
- Heart conditions (e.g., heart valve disease, arrhythmia, previous heart attack)
- Liver or kidney disease (including tumors)
- History of jaundice during pregnancy or with hormonal birth control use
- Stroke
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Thyroid problems
- Seasonale can affect your blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes mellitus type 1 or 2. You should regularly measure your blood sugar and share the results with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you have signs & symptoms of hyperglycemia (high sugar levels), such as increased thirst or urination. They will most likely adjust your medication, diet, or exercise plan.
- If you have a scheduled surgery or plan to be immobile for an extended period, tell your doctor, as these situations can increase your chance of blood clots, particularly when using hormonal birth control. In some cases, your doctor may ask you to discontinue using the medication temporarily or take extra precautions.
- Before undergoing surgery, including a dental procedure, inform your doctor, dentist, or surgeon about all the medications you are using, including Seasonale. Also, tell them about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements.
- Seasonale may cause melasma, leading to dark, blotchy skin discoloration, particularly on your face. Sun exposure can exacerbate this condition. To minimize the risk, limit sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when under the sun.
- If you are are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may experience vision changes or discomfort while wearing your contacts. If these issues arise, consult an eye care professional.
- It may take longer to conceive after discontinuing this hormonal birth control. Discuss this with your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy.
- This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, let your doctor know immediately. If you have recently given birth or had a miscarriage beyond the first trimester, consult your doctor about suitable birth control options and when it is safe to begin using hormonal birth control again.
- This medication may reduce the amount of milk your breast produces, and a small amount of Seasonale can pass into breast milk. Before breastfeeding, consult your doctor to evaluate potential risks to your infant.
What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Seasonale?
Boxed Warning for Smokers: If you smoke, then this medication is not for you. Smoking cigarettes heightens the likelihood of experiencing severe cardiovascular complications when using oral contraceptives. This risk escalates with age and is particularly pronounced in individuals engaging in heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes daily), especially among women aged 35 and older. It is strongly recommended that women using oral contraceptives abstain from smoking.
Liver Disease: Do not use Seasonale in women with acute viral hepatitis or severe cirrhosis. Don’t take it if you are a woman with benign & malignant liver tumors.
Pregnant: Don’t take this if you’re pregnant. If you get pregnant or miss two periods in a row, stop using it and tell your doctor immediately. If you’ve had a baby recently, wait at least 4 weeks before starting birth control pills.
What Are the Precautions for Seasonale?
Do not take Seasonale if you have:
- High blood pressure that is not being treated or controlled.
- Heart problems, like coronary artery disease, a history of heart attack, uncontrolled heart valve issues, stroke, or blood clots.
- Issues with blood clotting or circulation.
- Problems with kidneys, eyes, or circulation linked to diabetes.
- A history of hormone-related cancers, such as breast or uterine cancer.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding that hasn’t been checked by a doctor.
- Severe migraine headaches, especially if you’re older than 35, come with aura, weakness, numbness, or vision changes.
- History of jaundice caused by pregnancy or birth control pills.
What Are the Contraindications for Seasonale?
Seasonale is contraindicated in women:
- Who are above 35 years of age
- Who have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients present in the product.
- Who smoke
- Who have uncontrolled high blood pressure
- With known or suspected pregnancy
- Who have cardiovascular disease
- With circulation issues
- Having liver disease or liver cancer
- Who have Severe migraine
- With unusual vaginal bleeding
- Who have a history of breast or uterine cancer
What If You Miss a Dose of Seasonale?
- If you forget to take one pink tablet on days 1 through 84, take it as soon as you remember. Then, take the next tablet at your usual time and continue taking one tablet each day until you finish the 91-day course.
- If you miss two consecutive pink tablets on days 1 through 84, take two tablets on the day you remember and two tablets the next day. After that, continue with one tablet a day until you complete the 91-day course. Use extra non-hormonal contraception like condoms or spermicide if you have sex within 7 days after missing two tablets.
- If you miss three or more consecutive pink tablets on days 1 through 84, don’t take the missed tablets. Keep taking one tablet a day until you finish the 91-day course. Use additional non-hormonal contraception if you have sex within 7 days after missing three tablets.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Seasonale?
If you have taken more Seasonale than you were supposed to and you’re experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, or unusual vaginal bleeding, it’s important to contact your doctor right away. In case of emergency, you can also call 911 for quick assistance. Don’t delay seeking medical attention if you’re worried about an overdose.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended Seasonale dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Properly Store Seasonale?
- Maintain a storage temperature for the Seasonale tablet between 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F).
- Permissible temperature excursions are within the range of 15°C-30°C (59°F-86°F).
- Ensure that the tablet is shielded from direct light exposure.
- Store in a cool environment to prevent any adverse effects on the tablet.
- Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, and do not expose the tablet to temperatures outside the specified range.
- Keep the tablet in its original packaging or an airtight container to protect it from many environmental factors.
- Store away from moisture and humidity to maintain the integrity of the tablet.
- Follow any additional storage instructions provided by the manufacturer for optimal product stability.
- Regularly check the storage conditions to ensure compliance with the recommended guidelines.
- Do not store the tablet near heat sources or in areas prone to temperature extremes.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Drugs Interact with Seasonale?
Certain medications may interact with Seasonale and reduce its effectiveness or lead to unfavorable symptoms. To avoid such interactions, you should tell your doctor about all medications you currently use or plan to use, including all prescription and non-prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and herbs or vitamin supplements. This information helps you and your doctor identify and prevent Seasonale interactions. Some of the potential drug interactions of Seasonale include:
- St. John’s Wort
- Theophylline
- Antibiotics
- Barbiturates
- Seizure Medicines
- Prednisolone
- Acetaminophen
- HIV medicines
- Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C)
- Cyclosporine
- Phenylbutazone
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Seasonale. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Other Seasonale Interactions?
Certain herbs, vitamin supplements, food items, and beverages may interact with Seasonale and affect its effectiveness. Always tell your healthcare provider or doctor about such items to avoid potential interactions. It includes:
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can affect the metabolism of certain medicines, and while it is not as common with oral contraceptives, it is generally advised to avoid excessive grapefruit juice while taking hormonal birth control to prevent potential drug interactions.
- Alcohol: While there is no direct interaction between alcohol and seasonale, it can increase the risk of missed doses, especially if drinking leads to vomiting or diarrhea, which may reduce the effectiveness of birth control.
- St. John’s Wort: This herb can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, including Seasonale. St. John’s Wort induces enzymes in the liver (CYP450), which can increase the metabolism of birth control hormones, reducing their effectiveness and potentially increasing the risk of pregnancy.
What Are the Seasonale Alternatives?
While Seasonale for birth control is an effective option, it may not be suitable for every woman or is contraindicated for use. In such cases, people look for alternatives to Seasonale. While there are many effective alternatives present in the market, you should not use them without talking to your physician or healthcare provider first, as it can cause harm. If you plan to use a different contraceptive medication, discuss it with your doctor. Based on your age, medical history, and other factors, they will help you determine the medicine that works the best for you.
- Iclevia (ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel)
- Introvale (ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel)
- Quasense (ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel)
- Setlakin (ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Seasonale Cost & Coupons
Several factors, including health insurance coverage, prescription, and the pharmacy you choose to buy Seasonale from, can affect the price of obtaining it at a reduced price. Individuals find out that their health insurance plan does not cover medicines such as Seasonale, leading to out-of-pocket expenses. To manage such financial expenses, some Americans turn to online pharmacies such as Polar Bear Meds to buy Seasonale online from Canada in the USA and have it delivered to their doorstep conveniently. First-time buyers can enjoy an additional 10% discount on their first order of affordable Seasonale contraceptive using the coupon code WELCOMEPB10.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can you take Seasonale?
Consume one active tablet every day for a total of 84 days. Afterward take one inactive tablet daily for the next 7 days. Following this, commence with the next pack to initiate the 91-day cycle once more. It’s advisable to discuss with your doctor regarding the most suitable time to begin this medication. However, the first day of a woman’s menstrual period is known as Day 1 to start this medication.
What is the difference between Seasonale and Seasonique?
Both Seasonale and Seasonique consist of 84 days containing 0.15 mg/30 mcg of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. However, Seasonique diverges in the last 7 days, featuring 10 mcg of ethinyl estradiol, whereas Seasonale includes 7 days of sugar/placebo/bleeding pills during the same period. This distinction in the composition marks the difference between the two formulations.
What are the benefits of taking Seasonale?
This medication is used to prevent pregnancy. However, by following the Seasonale regimen, you’ll only have one period every three months, translating to 4 periods per year instead of the usual 12 or 13. Despite having fewer periods, the ones you do experience are expected to be lighter than usual.
What are the white pills in Seasonale?
White pills in Seasonale are also known as inactive pills without hormones. These are taken for 7 days and come in the same package with 84 pink pills. This unique combination of active and inactive pills in a single package reflects the careful design and consideration given to Seasonale’s formulation, contributing to its efficacy as a birth control option for individuals seeking a longer interval between menstrual periods.
Is Seasonale a good birth control?
Despite experiencing fewer periods, Seasonale offers protection comparable to a regular birth control pill. When taken consistently at the same time every day, the likelihood of getting pregnant in any given year is only 1 percent. However, if a dose is missed or the pill is taken late, the chance of pregnancy increases to 5 percent. Consistency in taking the pill is crucial for its effectiveness.
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