Logynon

Logynon is a triphasic combined oral contraceptive containing levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol. It is prescribed for the prevention of pregnancy.

The triphasic design means that the hormone doses change across three phases during the 21-day cycle, mimicking the natural hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle more closely than monophasic pills.

Levonorgestrel is a well-established second-generation progestogen that prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and modifies the endometrium.

Ethinylestradiol complements the contraceptive effect by suppressing follicular development and provides good cycle control.

The levonorgestrel component is associated with a lower risk of venous thromboembolism compared with third-generation progestogens.

Logynon contains three types of tablet in a single strip: six light-brown tablets, five white tablets, and ten ochre tablets, each containing different proportions of the two hormones.

The tablets must be taken in the correct order as indicated on the blister pack to maintain contraceptive efficacy and cycle control.

Take one tablet daily at the same time each day, following the order indicated on the blister pack.

Start with the light-brown tablets, proceed to the white tablets, and finish with the ochre tablets over 21 days.

After the last tablet, observe a seven-day tablet-free break, during which a withdrawal bleed normally occurs. Begin the next strip on the eighth day.

If starting for the first time, take the first tablet on the first day of your period. If you miss a pill by fewer than 12 hours, take it as soon as possible and continue as normal.

If more than 12 hours late, follow the missed-pill guidance in the patient information leaflet, which varies depending on which week of the pack you are in.

The 21-tablet strip contains: days 1-6: levonorgestrel 50 micrograms plus ethinylestradiol 30 micrograms; days 7-11: levonorgestrel 75 micrograms plus ethinylestradiol 40 micrograms; days 12-21: levonorgestrel 125 micrograms plus ethinylestradiol 30 micrograms.

One tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break. The regimen is not dose-adjustable. Tablets must be taken in the correct sequence for reliable contraception.

Common side effects include headache, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and altered menstrual bleeding patterns including breakthrough bleeding, particularly in the first three cycles.

Uncommon effects include migraine, decreased libido, acne, weight fluctuation, and fluid retention. Chloasma (facial pigmentation) may develop with prolonged use and ultraviolet exposure.

Serious but uncommon risks include venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism), with an incidence of approximately 5 to 7 per 10,000 woman-years for levonorgestrel-containing pills.

Arterial thromboembolism (stroke, myocardial infarction) is rare but the risk is increased by smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and older age.

Hepatic tumours and a small increased risk of breast and cervical cancer have been associated with combined pill use.

Stop Logynon and seek immediate medical advice if you develop symptoms of thromboembolism: sudden severe headache, chest pain, breathlessness, unilateral leg pain or swelling, or visual disturbance.

Women who smoke, especially over the age of 35, face a significantly increased risk of arterial complications and should not use combined oral contraceptives.

Blood pressure should be checked before prescribing and monitored regularly.

Because Logynon is triphasic, the tablets must be taken in the correct order; mixing up the tablet phases may reduce contraceptive reliability.

Logynon is contraindicated in women with current or previous venous or arterial thromboembolism, known thrombophilic disorders, migraine with aura, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes with vascular complications, severe hepatic disease or liver tumours, known or suspected oestrogen-dependent malignancy, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, and known or suspected pregnancy.

Women who smoke and are over 35 should not use this product.