Loestrin is a brand name for a combination oral contraceptive pill containing norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol [1]. It was used to prevent pregnancy [1].
When did Loestrin pills become unavailable?
The Loestrin brand name for these oral contraceptives was discontinued by Allergan, the manufacturer, in 2014 [2]. However, the active ingredients, norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, are still available in other generic and brand-name formulations [3].
What are the active ingredients in Loestrin?
Loestrin contains two hormones: norethindrone acetate, a progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen [1].
What are the generic alternatives to Loestrin?
Many generic versions of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol combination pills are available, often with different brand names [3]. These generics typically offer the same active ingredients and dosages as the original Loestrin formulation.
What is the difference between Loestrin and other birth control pills?
Loestrin was a specific formulation of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol. Birth control pills vary in their type of progestin, dosage of hormones, and hormone-free interval [4]. These differences can affect side effects, efficacy, and suitability for individual users [4].
What side effects were associated with Loestrin?
Common side effects of oral contraceptives like Loestrin include nausea, breast tenderness, headache, and mood changes [5]. More serious but rare side effects can include blood clots, stroke, and heart attack [5].
What are the risks of taking combination birth control pills?
Combination oral contraceptives carry risks, including an increased chance of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, particularly in women over 35 who smoke [5].
Who manufactures Loestrin?
The Loestrin brand was manufactured by Allergan [2].
Are there any patents related to Loestrin?
While the original Loestrin brand has been discontinued, patents related to specific formulations or manufacturing processes of norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol combination products would have existed. Information on specific patent expiry dates for discontinued medications can be complex to track, but DrugPatentWatch.com provides resources for drug patent information [6].
Where can I find more information on drug patents?
DrugPatentWatch.com offers a database of drug patents, patent litigation, and exclusivity information, which can be useful for understanding the patent landscape of pharmaceutical products [6].
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1. Loestrin Fe - norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol tablet [Internet]. DailyMed. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=192758f8-a51a-498e-a998-19d3a93a6148
2. Loestrin 24 Fe [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/loestrin-24-fe.html
3. Norethindrone Acetate And Ethinyl Estradiol Oral [Internet]. DailyMed. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=768393b8-8936-4d39-a8a3-85c7a16055e3
4. Combination Birth Control Pills [Internet]. Planned Parenthood. Available from: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-pill/combination-birth-control-pills
5. Birth Control Pills: MedlinePlus [Internet]. MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/birthcontrolpills.html
6. DrugPatentWatch.com [Internet]. Available from: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/