What are the key differences between Ashlyna and Amethia. How do these extended-cycle birth control pills compare in terms of effectiveness, side effects, and dosage. What should patients know when choosing between Ashlyna and Amethia for contraception.

Understanding Extended-Cycle Birth Control Pills

Extended-cycle birth control pills like Ashlyna and Amethia are a type of oral contraceptive designed to reduce the frequency of menstrual periods. These pills contain a combination of ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestin) taken continuously for an extended period, typically 84 days, followed by 7 days of low-dose estrogen or placebo pills.

How do extended-cycle pills differ from traditional birth control pills? Extended-cycle pills reduce the number of menstrual periods to about 4 per year, compared to 13 with conventional 28-day pill packs. This can be beneficial for women who experience menstrual migraines, severe menstrual cramps, or other period-related symptoms.

Composition and Dosage of Ashlyna and Amethia

Both Ashlyna and Amethia contain the same active ingredients:

• 0.15 mg levonorgestrel
• 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol

The dosing schedule for both medications is identical:

1. 84 active tablets containing hormones
2. 7 inactive tablets containing only ethinyl estradiol at a lower dose of 0.01 mg

This 91-day cycle is designed to be repeated continuously for ongoing birth control. The key difference between Ashlyna and Amethia lies primarily in their branding and manufacturing, rather than their composition or dosage.

Effectiveness as Contraceptives

Are Ashlyna and Amethia effective birth control methods? When used perfectly, extended-cycle birth control pills like Ashlyna and Amethia are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 women will become pregnant in a year of perfect use.

However, with typical use (which accounts for human error), the effectiveness rate drops to about 91%. This means that about 9 out of 100 women may become pregnant in a year of typical use. It’s crucial for users to take the pill consistently and as directed to maximize its effectiveness.

Common Side Effects and Risks

As with all hormonal contraceptives, Ashlyna and Amethia can cause various side effects. Some common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Irregular bleeding or spotting
• Weight gain

Are there any serious risks associated with these medications? While rare, extended-cycle birth control pills can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women who smoke or have certain health conditions. It’s essential to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before starting any hormonal contraceptive.

Benefits of Extended-Cycle Birth Control

Extended-cycle pills like Ashlyna and Amethia offer several advantages over traditional birth control pills:

• Fewer menstrual periods (about 4 per year)
• Reduced menstrual symptoms
• Potentially lower costs due to fewer periods
• Convenience of less frequent periods
• Possible reduction in menstrual migraines

For many women, the reduced frequency of periods can significantly improve quality of life, especially for those who experience severe menstrual symptoms or conditions exacerbated by menstruation.

Choosing Between Ashlyna and Amethia

Given that Ashlyna and Amethia have identical active ingredients and dosing schedules, how should a patient choose between them? The decision often comes down to factors such as:

• Cost and insurance coverage
• Availability at local pharmacies
• Personal preference for a particular brand
• Physician recommendation

It’s worth noting that generic versions of these medications may also be available, which could offer cost savings while providing the same effectiveness.

Interactions and Precautions

As with all medications, Ashlyna and Amethia can interact with other drugs and supplements. Some notable interactions include:

• Antibiotics (e.g., rifampin)
• Antiseizure medications
• St. John’s Wort
• HIV medications

What precautions should be taken when using these medications? Women should inform their healthcare providers about all medications and supplements they’re taking. Additionally, certain health conditions may make extended-cycle birth control pills unsuitable, including:

• History of blood clots
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Certain types of migraines
• Liver disease
• Smoking, especially in women over 35

Alternative Birth Control Options

While Ashlyna and Amethia are effective options for many women, they may not be suitable for everyone. Alternative birth control methods include:

• Traditional oral contraceptives
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs) like Mirena
• Implants like Nexplanon
• Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms)
• Non-hormonal options (copper IUD)

Each method has its own set of benefits and potential drawbacks. Discussing these options with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate choice based on individual health needs and preferences.

Comparing Ashlyna/Amethia to Other Options

How do Ashlyna and Amethia compare to other popular birth control methods? Let’s look at a brief comparison:

• Mirena (levonorgestrel-releasing IUD):
  • Lasts up to 5 years
  • May cause lighter or no periods
  • No daily pill to remember
  • Higher upfront cost but potentially more cost-effective long-term
• Nexplanon (etonogestrel implant):
  • Lasts up to 3 years
  • Very low failure rate
  • May cause irregular bleeding
  • Requires minor procedure for insertion and removal

While these methods offer longer-term contraception without the need for daily pills, they may not provide the same level of menstrual cycle control as extended-cycle pills like Ashlyna and Amethia.

Patient Experiences and Ratings

Understanding real-world experiences can be helpful when considering birth control options. According to user ratings on Drugs.com:

• Amethia has an average rating of 5.8 out of 10 based on 44 reviews
• 33% of reviewers reported a positive effect
• 28% reported a negative effect

It’s important to note that individual experiences can vary widely, and what works well for one person may not be ideal for another. Consulting with a healthcare provider and considering personal health factors is crucial in making an informed decision.

Common Concerns and Questions

When considering extended-cycle birth control pills like Ashlyna and Amethia, patients often have several questions:

1. Is it safe to skip periods using these pills?

   Yes, it is generally considered safe for most women to use extended-cycle pills to reduce the frequency of periods. There is no medical need to have a monthly period when using hormonal contraceptives.

2. Will extended-cycle pills affect future fertility?

   No, using extended-cycle birth control pills does not affect long-term fertility. Fertility typically returns quickly after stopping the medication.

   

3. Can these pills help with menstrual-related conditions?

   Yes, extended-cycle pills may help manage conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, and menstrual migraines by reducing the frequency of periods and hormonal fluctuations.

4. What should I do if I miss a pill?

   The action to take depends on how many pills were missed and at what point in the cycle. It’s important to follow the instructions provided with the medication or consult a healthcare provider.

Cost Considerations and Insurance Coverage

The cost of extended-cycle birth control pills can vary depending on insurance coverage and whether a generic version is available. As of the last available data:

• Amethia costs approximately $170.65 for a 91-day supply without insurance
• Generic versions may be available at a lower cost
• Many insurance plans cover birth control pills, potentially reducing out-of-pocket expenses

It’s advisable to check with insurance providers about coverage and compare prices at different pharmacies. Some patients may be eligible for patient assistance programs or discount cards to help manage costs.

Long-Term Considerations

When choosing a birth control method, it’s important to consider long-term factors:

• Duration of use: How long do you plan to use contraception?
• Future pregnancy plans: When do you want to start trying to conceive?
• Health changes: How might your health needs change over time?
• Lifestyle factors: Will you be able to consistently take a daily pill?

Extended-cycle pills like Ashlyna and Amethia offer flexibility, as they can be stopped at any time if pregnancy is desired or if a change in contraception is needed. However, for those seeking very long-term contraception, methods like IUDs or implants might be more suitable.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing between Ashlyna, Amethia, or other birth control options is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. Factors to consider include:

• Medical history and current health status
• Desired level of menstrual suppression
• Tolerance for potential side effects
• Ability to adhere to a daily pill regimen
• Cost and insurance coverage
• Long-term contraceptive needs

By thoroughly discussing these factors with a healthcare provider, patients can make an informed decision about whether Ashlyna, Amethia, or another contraceptive method is the best choice for their individual needs.

Amethia Alternatives Compared – Drugs.com

Amethia Alternatives Compared – Drugs.com
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View side-by-side comparisons of medication uses, ratings, cost, side effects and interactions.

</p> ”> Prescription only Prescribed for Birth Control. Amethia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.	Prescription only Prescribed for Birth Control, Heavy Menstrual Bleeding. Mirena may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.	Prescription only Prescribed for Birth Control. Nexplanon may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.	Related suggestions Birth Control (Contraception) Lo Loestrin Fe NuvaRing Sprintec Depo-Provera Yaz Norethindrone
More about Amethia (ethinyl estradiol / levonorgestrel)	More about Mirena (levonorgestrel)	More about Nexplanon (etonogestrel)
Generic Status
Lower-cost generic is available	Lower-cost generic is available	No lower-cost generic available
Ratings & Reviews
Amethia has an average rating of 5. 8 out of 10 from a total of 44 ratings on Drugs.com. 33% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 28% reported a negative effect.	Mirena has an average rating of 6.0 out of 10 from a total of 2588 ratings on Drugs.com. 46% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 32% reported a negative effect.	Nexplanon has an average rating of 5.1 out of 10 from a total of 4846 ratings on Drugs.com. 32% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 42% reported a negative effect.
View all 44 reviews	View all 2588 reviews	View all 4846 reviews
Drug Class
Contraceptives	Contraceptives Progestins	Contraceptives Progestins
Side Effects
See also: Amethia side effects in more detail.	See also: Mirena side effects in more detail.	Common side effects include: irregular menses weight gain See also: Nexplanon side effects in more detail.
Pricing and Coupons * Prices are without insurance
Quantity 182 each Dosage biphasic extended cycle Per Unit* $0.94 Cost* $170.65 View all Amethia prices and generic prices	Quantity 1 device Dosage 52 mg Per Unit* $1,169. 59 Cost* $1,169.59 View all Mirena prices and generic prices	Quantity 1 implant Dosage 68 mg Per Unit* $1,159.88 Cost* $1,159.88 View all Nexplanon prices
Get free Discount Card	Get free Discount Card	Get free Discount Card
Dosage Form(s) Available
Oral tablet	Intrauterine device	Subcutaneous implant
Half Life The half-life of a drug is the time taken for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce to half its original value.
45 hours	45 hours	25 hours
CSA Schedule ** View glossary of terms
Is not subject to the Controlled Substances Act.	Is not subject to the Controlled Substances Act.	Is not subject to the Controlled Substances Act.
Pregnancy Category
See the full pregnancy warnings document.	See the full pregnancy warnings document.	See the full pregnancy warnings document.
Drug Interactions
A total of 448 drugs are known to interact with Amethia: 48 major drug interactions (130 brand and generic names) 354 moderate drug interactions (1275 brand and generic names) 46 minor drug interactions (509 brand and generic names)	A total of 240 drugs are known to interact with Mirena: 36 major drug interactions (103 brand and generic names) 190 moderate drug interactions (594 brand and generic names) 14 minor drug interactions (67 brand and generic names)	A total of 227 drugs are known to interact with Nexplanon: 35 major drug interactions (101 brand and generic names) 183 moderate drug interactions (549 brand and generic names) 9 minor drug interactions (49 brand and generic names)
Alcohol/Food/Lifestyle Interactions
Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of certain medications such as levonorgestrel. You… View more	Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of certain medications such as levonorgestrel. You… View more	Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of certain medications such as etonogestrel. You… View more
Disease Interactions
Smoking Abnormal genital bleeding Abnormal vaginal bleeding Carcinomas (estrogenic) Hypercalcemia in breast cancer Hypertension Thromboembolism/cardiovascular Hepatic neoplasms Intracranial HTN Thromboembolism Breast malignancy Liver disease Angioedema Gallbladder disease Hypercalcemia Hyperlipidemia Liver disease Melasma Depression Fluid retention Glucose intolerance Retinal thrombosis Thyroid function tests Hyperlipidemia Weight gain	Abnormal genital bleeding Hepatic neoplasms Intracranial HTN Thromboembolism Breast malignancy Liver disease Depression Fluid retention Glucose intolerance Retinal thrombosis Thyroid function tests Hyperlipidemia Weight gain	Abnormal genital bleeding Hepatic neoplasms Breast malignancy Liver disease Thromboembolism Depression Fluid retention Retinal thrombosis Gallbladder disease
First Approval Date
N/A	December 06, 2000	July 17, 2006
WADA Class View World Anti-Doping Agency classifications.
N/A	N/A	N/A
More Information
Side effects Pregnancy warnings Dosage information Drug images Drug interactions Pricing and coupons En Español	Side effects Pregnancy warnings Dosage information Drug interactions Support group Pricing and coupons En Español	Side effects Pregnancy warnings Breastfeeding warnings Dosage information Drug images Drug interactions Support group Pricing and coupons En Español
Patient resources
Overview Advanced reading	Overview	Overview
Professional Resources
Prescribing information	Prescribing information	Prescribing information

** The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) schedule information displayed applies to substances regulated under federal law. There may be variations in CSA schedules between individual states.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Ethinyl Estradiol and Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel 91 Day Oral Tablet Pack 0.01 mg [7] and 0.02mg/0.1 mg[84], 0.03 mg/0.15 mg [84]

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Ethinyl Estradiol and Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel 91 Day Oral Tablet Pack 0. 01 mg [7] and 0.02mg/0.1 mg[84], 0.03 mg/0.15 mg [84]

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

• acne
• birth control
• depression
• endocrine disorder
• menstrual problem

Brand Name(s): Amethia, Amethia Lo, Ashlyna, Camrese, Daysee, Fayosim, Jaimiess, Lojaimiess, LoSeasonique, Quartette, Rivelsa, Seasonique, Simpesse

Generic Name: Ethinyl Estradiol and Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel Quadriphasic

Instructions

Instructions

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

If this is the first time that you are using this medicine, please speak with your doctor about when you should start this medicine.

If you are switching from a different birth control pill, start this medicine on the same day you would start your other birth control pack.

If you are using a birth control pack with 28 pills, start the first pill of a new pack on the day after the last pill of the previous pack.

If you are using a birth control pack that has 21 pills, wait 7 days after taking the last pill of the empty pack before you take the first pill of a new pack.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, you are allowed to take 2 doses at once. Return to your normal dosing schedule on the following day. If you miss more than one dose, ask your doctor what you should do to get back on schedule.

Ask your doctor about using an extra form of birth control if you forget any doses of your medicine.

You may have mild vaginal bleeding or spotting while on this medicine. Do not stop taking the medicine if this happens. Contact your doctor if bleeding is heavy or lasts more than a few days.

This medicine may cause dark patches to appear on your face. Avoid sunlight and use sunscreen lotion to minimize further darkening of these skin patches.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Vomiting or diarrhea can prevent birth control pills from working well. If you have vomiting or diarrhea, ask if you need to use an extra form of birth control (such as condoms).

Cautions

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems, heart attack, and stroke. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for stroke, heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, and other diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Ask your doctor how to do a breast self-exam. Check monthly. Report any changes to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor about getting a complete physical exam every year while on this medicine.

Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• bloating
• breast pain or swelling
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• headaches
• high blood pressure
• menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
• nausea and vomiting
• stomach upset or abdominal pain
• weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• severe or persistent abdominal pain
• breast lumps
• chest or jaw pain
• changes in memory, mood, or thinking
• depression or feeling sad
• fainting
• severe or persistent headache
• sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• shortness of breath
• symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
• blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.

There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.

The display and use of this drug information is subject to Terms of Use.

https://api.meducation.com/V2.0/fdbpem/727

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Selected from data included with permission and copyright by First DataBank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.