What is Alesse?

Alesse is a drug which contains female hormones that help in prevention of ovulation.

Uses

Alesse is basically used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. As it is a drug which releases the female hormones the release of the eggs from an ovary is also prevented. Alesse can also change the size of the uterine lining and the cervical mucus so that the sperm also has difficulty in reaching the uterus. So it is harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
This is the basic way Alesse works.
Alesse may also be prescribed by the doctor for other reasons than those stated above. Contact your doctor and pharmacist to find out why you are being subscribed this drug.

How should I take Alesse?

Alesse should only be used according to the prescribed way. Do not take Alesse for a longer time than the given course. Alesse is not to be used in bigger amounts than the prescribed amount.
The first tablet of the course is to be taken on the first day of your period. Follow your doctor's instructions on when to start your course. For the first few days you might need to use back up birth control pills or condoms. Take Alesse one pill per day. You have to take it regularly and irregular intake might not be able to prevent pregnancy.

Warning

Alesse is not to be used if you are pregnant or recently had a baby.
If you have a history of:

• Strokes or Blood Clot;
• Circulation Problems;
• Breast or Uterine Cancer;
• Liver Disease;
• Migraine Or
• Jaundice

Then do not use Alesse. Back up birth control should be used at all costs in the starting of the course as it may need time to settle with your body. Taking drug hormones can increase the risk of blood clots and heart attack. This can be increased if the patient smokes and is over the age of 35.
Taking other medicines can also affect the ability of Alesse. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking along with the dosage. This also includes herbal medicine and vitamins and minerals.
Alesse can also cause birth defects. So using this in pregnancy is not advisable. Tell your doctor about getting pregnant during the course immediately. Wait at least for 4 weeks after any child berth before using Alesse.
Alesse passes into breast milk and can cause harm to a nursing baby. Alesse may also cause a slow production of breast milk. Do not use if you are breast-feeding a baby. Inform your doctor before using Alesse about nursing.

What happens if I miss a dose?

A missed dose increases the chances of pregnancy.
If you miss a dose on a day then take the missed dose with the next scheduled dose. For the rest of the course continue with the planned schedule.
Use back up birth control for at least 7 days after missing a dose. Reminder pills may be allotted to keep you on schedule. If you miss these then do not take them any more. Continue with the planned schedule. Back up is not needed in case of missing a reminder pill.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.

Alesse side effects

The side effects of Alesse can be found out by the following symptoms:

• Numbness or tingly feeling;
• Uneven heartbeat;
• Urinating less than usual or not at all;
• Vaginal Bleeding
• Darkening and freckles on skin
• Shallow breathing And
• Nausea.

The patient might face side effects other than those listed here. If any unusual symptom is caused by the use of Alesse then contact your doctor immediately.

Proper storage of Alesse

Alesse is to be stored at room temperature. Room temperature: 68 to 77 Degrees F or 20 to 25o C. It is to be kept in a tightly closed container. Keep Alesse away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not place it in bathrooms. Keep Alesse out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information

For more information about Alesse consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms get worse after using this drug then inform this to your doctor.
Alesse is to be used only for the person it is prescribed for. Do not share your medication.