Alesse

Other Names: Estrogen and Progestin (Oral Contraceptives)

Commonly Prescribed For: Alesse is normally prescribed for preventing pregnancy. Oral contraceptives can be used as an effectual method of birth control. It does not thwart the spread of HIV and certain sexually transmitted disease. This medication can also be used for treating acne in certain patients.

How to Take it: Oral contraceptives is available in the form of tablets to be taken via mouth once every day. Take Alesse along with food to avoid nausea. Take this medication as prescribed.

How it Works: It prevents ovulation and hence leads to certain changes in the mucus lining of the cervix, thereby making it difficult for the sperm to penetrate. This can cause a difficulty for the eggs to implant.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, white vaginal discharge, vomiting, itching of the vagina, stomach cramps or bloating, difficulty wearing contact lenses, diarrhea, breast enlargement, constipation, painful or missed periods, gingivitis, and changes in menstrual flow, increased or decreased appetite and acne. Serious side effects include rash, severe headache, unusual bleeding, severe vomiting, speech problems, and light-colored stool, dizziness, and dark-colored urine, shortness of breath, fever, double vision, stomach pain and loss of appetite.