What is Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel) used for?

Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel) is an oral contraceptive prescribed to women to prevent pregnancy. The medication operates by adjusting hormone levels within the body to prevent the release of an egg from the ovaries to hinder fertilization. It also changes the lining of the uterus and cervix to prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg if it does occur. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine to be used along with others or for the treatment of other unlisted conditions, as well.

How should I use Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel)?

Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel) should always be used according to your doctor`s instructions to get the safest and most effective results from treatment. One tablet should be administered each day exactly as indicated by the labelled or calendar packaging as the balance of hormones is very important. The first tablet should be taken on the first day of menstruation, but the best directions will be based on your age, weight, current health, and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a full glass of water and may be taken with or without food, although a meal or snack is suggested before use if you get an upset stomach. Never chew, split, or crush the tablets before using them as this may destroy or change the effects of their contents. Ask your pharmacist or doctor any questions you have about the medicine as any misuse may lead to unexpected pregnancy.

What are the side effects of Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel)?

Some patients using Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel) have reported experiencing side effects such as:

• Freckles or darkened facial skin
• Bloating or stomach cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unusual weight changes
• Tenderness or swelling of the breast area
• Disrupted menstrual periods
• Discharge from the nipples
• Reduced sex drive
• vaginal irritation or discharge

Stop using the medication and contact your doctor as soon as possible if any serious side effects occur including coughing, choking sensations, migraines, changes in migraine frequency, pain or swelling of the legs or extremities, chest pain, depression, darkened urine, discoloured stools, jaundice, or a lump in the breast. These conditions may require reduced dosages, application frequency, or immediate medical attention in serious cases to prevent more health complications from occurring.

Please Note

Do not use Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel) if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have porphyrias, or have known or suspected breast cancer. Also disclose if you have any conditions that can cause complications with the medication such as upcoming surgery, immobilization, diabetes, liver cancer, liver cirrhosis, clotting disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, history of migraines, systemic lupus erythematosus, history of breast cancer, history of jaundice, or gallbladder disease. These conditions may require alterations to your regimen to prevent any unexpected problems.

Strictly use Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Mercilon (Ethinylestradiol/Dogestrel) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.