Lizinna (Ethinylestradiol / Norgestimate)

Lizinna is a monophasic combined contraceptive pill containing ethinylestradiol (oestrogen) and norgestimate (progestogen). These hormones work together to prevent pregnancy while also helping to regulate periods and manage menstrual symptoms.

Lizinna provides contraceptive protection through three mechanisms:

• Prevents ovulation – stops the release of an egg from the ovaries.
• Thickens cervical mucus – makes it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
• Alters the womb lining – reduces the likelihood of a fertilised egg implanting.

When taken correctly, Lizinna is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so additional protection, such as condoms, should be used for STI prevention.

• Starting the pill:
  • Start Lizinna on day one of your period for immediate protection.
  • If starting after day five, use extra contraception (e.g., condoms) for 7 days.
• Daily use:
  • Take one pill at the same time each day for 21 days.
  • Follow the sequence on the blister strip to take the pills in the correct order.
  • After completing the 21-day pack, have a 7-day break before starting a new strip.
  • A withdrawal bleed (similar to a period) usually occurs during the break.

If you vomit within 2 hours of taking Lizinna, it may not be absorbed properly. Take another pill from a spare pack or consult a doctor for advice.

Some individuals may experience mild side effects when starting Lizinna, which usually settle within a few months.

Common side effects:

• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Breast tenderness

Less common side effects:

• Migraines
• Mood changes
• Acne or skin rashes
• Vaginal infections such as thrush
• Weight gain or weight loss

Rare but serious side effects:

• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, or heart attack)
• Severe abdominal pain (possible sign of pancreatitis)
• Breast lumps or significant breast changes

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, leg swelling, shortness of breath, vision disturbances, or sudden weakness, as these could indicate a serious complication.

Do NOT take Lizinna if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (within the first 6 weeks postpartum).
• Have ever had a blood clot, stroke, heart attack, or angina.
• Have high blood pressure, severe diabetes, or high cholesterol.
• Have migraines with aura.
• Have been diagnosed with breast cancer, liver disease, or hepatitis C.

Consult your doctor before taking Lizinna if you:

• Have inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• Have recently given birth and are unsure when to start contraception.