Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 7/10/2024
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription
The use of norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol can lead to various side effects in some individuals.
Common mild side effects of norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol use include:
More severe side effects include:
If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
You should also mention medical conditions such as:
This medication has been given a black box warning from the FDA due to the risks of smoking cigarettes while using norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol. Doing so increases your risk of heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, and other side effects from taking oral contraceptives, especially for heavy smokers over the age of 35. Do not smoke cigarettes if you are taking oral contraceptives such as norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol.
Oral contraceptives such as norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol may increase your long-term risk of developing liver tumors, breast or liver cancer and your short-term risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clots – while reducing your overall risk of ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancers, so be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of oral contraceptives.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol with your healthcare provider.
Take norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
Norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol can cause dizziness or nausea. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your condition.
In case of a norethindrone-ethinyl estradiol overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.