Lucette

Lucette is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing ethinylestradiol and drospirenone. It is a generic equivalent of Yasmin and is used for the prevention of pregnancy.

Beyond contraception, Lucette is also prescribed for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in women who wish to use an oral contraceptive, and for the management of symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Drospirenone is a fourth-generation progestogen with anti-androgenic and mild anti-mineralocorticoid activity.

The anti-androgenic properties make Lucette particularly suitable for women who experience acne, oily skin, or hirsutism.

The anti-mineralocorticoid effect counteracts oestrogen-related water retention, meaning Lucette is less likely to cause bloating and weight gain compared to pills containing older progestogens.

Lucette is taken as one tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval during which a withdrawal bleed occurs.

When taken correctly, it is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Take one tablet daily at the same time each day for 21 consecutive days. Then take a 7-day break during which a withdrawal bleed will usually occur.

Start the next pack after the 7-day break regardless of whether bleeding has stopped. If you miss a pill, follow the instructions in the patient leaflet carefully.

Starting the pill: begin on day 1 of your menstrual cycle for immediate protection.

One tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval. Each tablet contains ethinylestradiol 30 micrograms and drospirenone 3 mg.

If a pill is missed by less than 24 hours, take it as soon as remembered and continue as normal. If more than 24 hours late, follow the missed pill guidance in the product leaflet.

Common (1 in 10 to 1 in 100): headache, breast tenderness, nausea, mood changes, and breakthrough bleeding (especially in the first 3 months).

Uncommon (1 in 100 to 1 in 1,000): migraine, decreased libido, and vomiting.

Rare (less than 1 in 1,000): venous thromboembolism (VTE), arterial thromboembolism, and cervical or breast cancer (small increased risk).

Drospirenone-containing pills carry a slightly higher VTE risk than levonorgestrel-containing pills, though the absolute risk remains low.

Combined oral contraceptives increase the risk of blood clots. Seek urgent medical attention if you develop sudden leg swelling or pain, chest pain, breathlessness, or sudden severe headache.

Risk factors for VTE include obesity, prolonged immobility, major surgery, smoking, and age over 35. Stop the pill 4 weeks before major elective surgery.

Drospirenone has anti-mineralocorticoid activity — use with caution alongside potassium-sparing diuretics or ACE inhibitors.

Current or past venous or arterial thromboembolism. Known thrombophilic conditions. History of migraine with aura. Uncontrolled hypertension. Current breast cancer or history of breast cancer.

Severe hepatic disease or active liver tumour. Severe renal impairment or acute renal failure (drospirenone increases potassium). Smokers over 35 years of age. Diabetes with vascular complications.