Lo Loestrin Fe contains a low dose of estrogen, specifically ethinyl estradiol, at 10 micrograms. This is combined with norethindrone acetate, a progestin. The formulation is designed as a continuous daily oral contraceptive.
What is the typical dosage for Lo Loestrin Fe?
Lo Loestrin Fe is administered as a single oral tablet taken once daily. The active tablets contain 10 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol and 1 milligram of norethindrone acetate. For three days of the cycle, patients take placebo tablets that do not contain active hormones [1].
What are the different forms of Lo Loestrin Fe?
Lo Loestrin Fe is available as a combined oral contraceptive containing both estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (norethindrone acetate). The specific dose of ethinyl estradiol in Lo Loestrin Fe is 10 micrograms.
How does Lo Loestrin Fe's estrogen dose compare to other birth control pills?
The 10 microgram dose of ethinyl estradiol in Lo Loestrin Fe is considered a low dose. Many other combined oral contraceptives contain higher doses of ethinyl estradiol, typically ranging from 20 to 35 micrograms. Lower estrogen doses are often associated with a reduced risk of certain side effects, although they may not be suitable for everyone.
What are the ingredients in Lo Loestrin Fe?
Lo Loestrin Fe contains two active pharmaceutical ingredients: ethinyl estradiol, a synthetic estrogen, and norethindrone acetate, a synthetic progestin. The ethinyl estradiol is present at a dose of 10 micrograms per active tablet. It also contains iron supplements in the placebo tablets [1].
When does the patent for Lo Loestrin Fe expire?
Information on the specific patent expiry dates for Lo Loestrin Fe can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [2]. Pharmaceutical patents protect the intellectual property of drug formulations and are crucial for determining when generic versions can enter the market.
Are there generic versions of Lo Loestrin Fe available?
The availability of generic versions of Lo Loestrin Fe depends on patent expiries and any subsequent regulatory approvals. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information that would indicate when generic competition might be expected [2].
What are the potential side effects of Lo Loestrin Fe?
Common side effects associated with Lo Loestrin Fe, like other oral contraceptives, can include nausea, breast tenderness, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Patients may experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding, especially during the first few months of use. More serious, though less common, side effects are also possible and should be discussed with a healthcare provider [1].
What is the purpose of the iron tablets in Lo Loestrin Fe?
The three days of placebo tablets in the Lo Loestrin Fe pack contain 1 milligram of ferrous fumarate. These iron supplements are intended to help prevent iron deficiency anemia, which can sometimes occur in individuals with heavy menstrual bleeding [1].
Who manufactures Lo Loestrin Fe?
Lo Loestrin Fe is manufactured by AbbVie Inc.