There is a very small risk of cardiovascular complications (thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, hypertension, cardiac infarction, cerebrovascular seizure) when small doses of an ethinylestradiol-progestogen combination are taken. Smoking women over 35 years of age are most endangered. The risk of breast cancer might be minimally increased in nulliparous women who have been treated with contraceptives over a long period of time and who are 25 years or younger. Cervical alterations and hepatobiliary complications (e.g. liver adenoma) are rare. The newer contraceptives can influence glucose tolerance negatively.

Frequent but harmless side-effects are nausea, headaches, libido alterations, mental depressions, spotting, weight alterations.

Ethinylestradiol/Progestogen: Interactions

The contraceptive effect can be deteriorated by enzyme inducers (antiepileptic agents, rifampicin) and exceptionally also by antibiotics.

Table of Contents | Indications | Pharmacology | Contraindications & Cautions | Risk Groups | References