Ortho-tri cyclen Lo is a pill used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. Each pill contains a combination of female hormones, norgestimate (progestational compound) and ethinyl estradiol (estrogenic compound), to prevent ovulation. It may also help regulate your menstrual cycle so that your monthly periods are easier and predictable. This birth control pill is to be taken daily, preferably at the same time of day or no more than 24 hours apart.
Missing a dose may get you pregnant. If the pills run out, you can start with a new pack the following day. When you first start using Ortho-tri cyclen or when you miss a dose, you may need to use back up contraceptives, such as condoms. Ortho-tri cyclen is not to be taken if you are pregnant or if you recently gave birth. This pill is also not for people suffering from uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetic problems with your eyes and kidneys, heart disease, unusual vaginal bleeding, circulation problems, liver disease, severe migraine, and those who have had breast cancer or uterine cancer due to birth control pills. Women over 35 years of age who smoke cigarettes or use tobacco should also not use this medication as smoking may increase the risk of heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure and stroke.
Ortho-tri cycle lo Cost Information
The Ortho-tri cycle Lo contraceptive pill may range anywhere between $27 and $50 from various online stores. You compare prices and find discounts online to avail of the best deals.
Dosage | Quantity | Price Without Insurance |
CVS Pharmacy |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $130.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $261.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $387.00 |
Kmart |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $128.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $256.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $384.00 |
Kroger |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $118.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $235.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $349.00 |
Publix |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $148.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $297.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $445.00 |
Rite Aid |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $143.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $286.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $417.00 |
Target |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $128.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $256.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $383.00 |
Walgreens |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $127.00 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $256.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $382.00 |
Walmart |
| 28 tablets | 1 package | $116.11 |
| 28 tablets | 2 packages | $230.00 |
| 28 tablets | 3 packages | $344.43 |
Side Effects
Serious side effects from taking the pill are rare, especially if the person taking the pill is young and in good health condition. However, they may occur in some cases. These side effects include:
• Sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on the side of the body
• Severe headache
• Problems with vision, speech and balance
• Sudden cough, rapid breathing, or coughing of blood
• Nausea
• Dark urine
• Clay-colored stools
• Swelling or redness in one or both legs
• Breast lump
• Symptoms of depression
If you notice any of these side effects while taking the pill, you should stop using the pill and call your doctor immediately. Although this medication rarely causes serious problems, there have also been known medical conditions associated with or made worse by taking the pill, such as blood clots, gallbladder disease, heart attack, stroke, dangerous liver tumors, breast and cervical cancer. That is why your doctor will consider your medical history to see if you can take this pill.
How It Works
Ortho-tri cyclen is a triphasic birth control pill. In other words, it prevents pregnancy in three ways. Its primary goal is to prevent ovulation, which is the release of the egg from the uterus, by delivering low dose of progestin and estrogen. If the egg is not released, it means fertilization cannot occur. Therefore, you cannot get pregnant. The pill also causes changes in the uterus lining, which in turn makes it difficult for the egg to be implanted. The hormones contained in the pill thicken the mucus around the cervix as well, making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg.
Generic Alternatives
There is no generic equivalent for Ortho-tri cyclen lo. However, there is a generic version for Ortho-tri cyclen (not the lo version) called Trinessa Tri-Spritec or Tri- Previfem. It has the same effects but you will want to consult with your doctor first before you make the switch.
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