Side Effects of Norgestimate & Ethinyl Estradiol
Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol are sold as a combined prescription drug under the Ortho-Tri-Cyclen brand name. This drug is used to prevent pregnancy by increasing levels of estrogen and progesterone. The medication inhibits ovulation, makes it more difficult for sperm to move into the uterus and reduces the chances of successful implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. Some doctors may use this drug to treat menopause symptoms and regulate the menstrual cycle.
Nervous System Related Effects
Some individuals have experienced abnormal side effects that are related to the nervous system while they used Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol. According to Drugs.com, some patients have noticed vision changes after starting to take this medicine. Some women complained of headaches. Some headaches may be severe and may develop suddenly. Dizziness has occurred with this drug. Some users have fainted after taking this medicine. Slurred speech has been observed in some patients.
Gastrointestinal and Reproductive System Related Effects
Unusual side effects related to the gastrointestinal and reproductive systems have been reported by some Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol patients. According to Drugs.com, some users have developed nausea or vomiting while they took this drug. Unusual weight changes have been reported. Severe stomach pain has occurred. Some women complained of bleeding between menstrual periods or missed menstrual periods. Some abnormal vaginal bleeding was persistent or recurrent.
Skin and Related Effects
Some women have seen strange skin related side effects while on Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol. According to Drugs.com, some people have observed unusual rashes or hives while they used this drug. Skin itching, swollen fingers and swollen ankles have been reported. Swelling of the face, mouth and tongue has occurred. Some patients noticed breast lumps or breast tenderness. Arm or leg numbness has developed in some cases. Yellowing skin or eyes has been reported.
Other Effects
Other side effects have been observed by some Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol patients. According to Drugs.com, some individuals have complained about chest tightness or shortness of breath while they were treated with this drug. Other breathing problems have also occurred. Leg pain and chest pain are possible. Weakness on one side of the body was reported in some cases. Some individuals had difficulty wearing contact lenses while they used this drug.
Precautions
Users of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol should take some precautions before they begin treatment with this medicine. According to Drugs.com, the risks of high blood pressure, heart attacks and stroke may increase when individuals take this drug. These risks may be greater for patients who smoke. Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol may become less effective if certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants or other drugs are taken. Patients should notify their doctors of all the drugs that they use.
