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DROSPIRENONE; ESTETROL (dro SPY re nown; ES te trol) prevents ovulation and pregnancy. It belongs to a group of medications called oral contraceptives. It is a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin.
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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): NEXTSTELLIS
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take this medication by mouth with water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medication at the same time each day and in the order directed on the package. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Do not take your medication more often than directed.
A patient package insert for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.
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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed. This medication has been used in children who have started having menstrual periods.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
If you miss a dose, refer to the patient information sheet you received with your medication for direction. If you miss more than one pill, this medication may not be as effective and you may need to use another form of contraception.
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
This medication may also interact with the following:
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. You will need a regular breast and pelvic exam and Pap smear while on this medication.
Use an additional method of contraception, such as a condom, during the first cycle of this medication.
If you have any reason to think you are pregnant, stop taking this medication right away and contact your care team.
Talk to your care team if you use tobacco products. Changes to your treatment plan may be needed. Tobacco increases the risk of getting a blood clot or having a stroke while you are taking this medication. This risk is higher if you are 35 years or older.
This medication can make your body retain fluid, making your fingers, hands, or ankles swell. Your blood pressure can go up. Contact your care team if you feel you are retaining fluid.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
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If you wear contact lenses and notice visual changes, or if the lenses begin to feel uncomfortable, consult your care team.
This medication can cause tooth and gum problems. Tenderness, swelling, or minor bleeding of the gums may occur. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly may reduce the risk of side effects. Visit your dentist on a regular basis. Tell your dentist about any medications you are taking.
If you are going to have elective surgery, you may need to stop taking this medication before the surgery. Consult your care team for advice.
Using this medication does not protect you or your partner against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
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Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep this medication in the original packaging until you are ready to take it. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
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NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.