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There are many methods of contraception available, and one of the most effective is oral hormone therapy. It consists of preparations usually containing two components, less often one. Synthetic hormones are derivatives of progesterone and estrogens. Rigevidon is a classic, two-component preparation, not recommended for use in lactating women due to the presence of ethinylestradiol. How does Rigevidon work? What are the possible side effects of taking this preparation?
Manufacturer of the drug: Gedeon Richter Plc.
Form, dose, packaging: coated tablets, coated tablets; 0,03 mg + 0,15 mg, 21 pcs.
Availability category: Rp – prescription drug
Active substance: ethinylestradiol, levonogestrel
Rigevidon – action
The active substances in Rigevidon are the synthetic hormonal agents ethinylestradiol and levonogestrel. Taking these drugs is designed to inhibit the process of ovulation, i.e. ovulation, and thus prevent the development of a mature egg capable of fertilization. This type of process prevents unwanted pregnancies. Two-component preparations are generally well tolerated, however, sometimes synthetic estrogens can cause adverse side effects. It is then possible to change the contraceptive treatment to monotherapy with gestagens.
Inhibition of ovulation while taking Rigevidon is possible due to the influence of hormones on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. This inhibits the release of luteinizing hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. This hormone allows the egg to be released and it becomes ready for fertilization. In addition, the ethinylestradiol and levonogestrel in Rigevidon thicken the mucus secreted in the cervix, making it thicker, which in turn makes it difficult for sperm to move towards the egg. In addition, the drug also makes it difficult for the embryo to implant in the uterine mucosa.
Rigevidon – indications
The main indication for the use of Rigevidon is, of course, hormonal contraception. In addition, the preparation can also be indicated in women struggling with painful menstruation and irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding. Rigevidon is not an agent that can be used by breastfeeding women due to the possibility of changing the composition of the food or stopping lactation altogether.
Rigevidon – dosage
Regarding the dosage of Rigevidon, you should take 1 tablet daily for 3 consecutive weeks (21 days). There should be an interval of one week (7 days) between taking the next 21 doses. For women who have not used any hormonal contraception in the last month, the first dose should be taken on the first day of menstrual bleeding, which is considered to be the first day of the cycle. However, if another contraceptive (mono, combined, IUD or transdermal patch) has already been used in the last month, the first dose of Rigevidon should be taken the next day. It is recommended to start treatment with the drug about 1-3 weeks after childbirth, unless the woman is breastfeeding. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and then continue as before. If the dosing interval is longer than 4 hours, an additional barrier form of contraception should be used.
Rigevidon – contraindications to use
Rigevidon should not be used in the following diseases:
- deep vein thrombosis,
- coronary heart disease,
- pulmonary embolism,
- cerebral circulation failure,
- heart rhythm disturbances,
- unregulated blood pressure,
- vaginal bleeding of unknown cause,
- hypersensitivity to ethinylestradiol or levonogestrel.
Rigevidon – warnings
Taking hormonal contraceptives carries a serious risk of developing venous thromboembolism, even if the woman is not genetically predisposed. The main symptoms may then be: headaches and dizziness, leg swelling, double vision or partial vision loss, movement disorders, severe abdominal pain. Taking Rigevidon may also increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. Long-term contraception can contribute to the development of breast cancer. Some studies also show a risk of developing cervical cancer, however it is rather related to HPV infection.
Rigevidon – interactions
Rigevidon may interact with the following drugs: phenytoin, primidone, ritonavir, efavirenz, topiramate, cyclosporin, modafinil, etoricosib. The drug should not be combined with preparations containing St. John’s wort.
Rigevidon – side effects
The most common side effects seen with Rigevidon include vaginitis or mycosis, headache, nervousness, mood swings, acne, abdominal pain, painful menstruation, menstrual disorders, edema, water retention, weight gain.