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Description
What is Micronor (Norethindrone) prescribed for?
Micronor is a medication used to prevent pregnancy. And it is quite often referred to as the “mini pill”, since it does not contain any estrogen.
Norethindrone, the active ingredient in Micronor, is a hormone that prevents pregnancy by making caginal fluid thicker to help prevent sperm from reaching the egg and changes the lining of the uterus to prevent an attachment of a fertilized egg. If a fertilized egg does not attach to the uterus, it simply passes out of the body. This medication also stops the release of the egg in about half of a woman’s menstrual cycle.
While this “mini pill” is known to be more effective then certain other methods of birth control, such as condoms, cervical cap and a diaphragm, it is less effective than the combination birth control because it does not consistently prevent ovulation. In truth, this medication is usually taken by women whom cannot take estrogen.
Directions
This medication is to be taken by mouth, and usually once a day. However this medication must be taken at the same time, every day. Pick a time during your day and stick with that time.
However if you take this medication after an evening meal or at bedtime, it may help you out if you have had a upset stomach or nausea while on this medication. You may choose to take this medication at another time, however it is important you keep to a strict schedule concerning when you take it.
Do not take a break between the packs of pills, once you have finished one pack, simply move onto the next for your next dose. Pregnancy is more likely if you miss any pills. If you do encounter any vaginal bleeding while on this medication, keep in mind this may happen, along with irregular or heavier/lighter periods. But do not stop taking the medication.
Cautions
Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to norethindrone; or to other progestins; or to any other medications or allergies in general.
Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform you doctor of you Medical history. Especially of; blood clots (for example, in the legs, eyes, lungs), blood clotting disorders (such as protein C or protein S deficiency), high blood pressure, abnormal breast exam, cancer (especially endometrial or breast cancer), low levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL), depression, diabetes, severe headaches/migraines, heart problems (such as heart valve disease, irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack), history of yellowing eyes/skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or while using hormonal birth control (such as pills, patch), liver disease (including tumors), unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Smoking raises your risk of stroke, heart attack, blood clots, and high blood pressure from hormonal birth control (such as the pill, patch, ring). The risk of these serious problems increases with age and with the number of cigarettes you smoke. Do not smoke or use tobacco.
This medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma). Sunlight may worsen this effect. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
Side Effects
Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Nausea, vomiting, headache, bloating, breast tenderness, or weight gain may occur. Vaginal bleeding between periods (spotting) or missed/irregular periods may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away. If you miss 2 periods in a row (or 1 period if the pill has not been used properly), contact your doctor for a pregnancy test.
This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: lumps in the breast, mental/mood changes (such as new/worsening depression), severe stomach/abdominal pain, unusual changes in vaginal bleeding (such as continuous spotting, sudden heavy bleeding, missed periods), dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.
This medication may rarely cause serious (sometimes fatal) problems from blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke). Get medical help right away if any of these side effects occur: chest/jaw/left arm pain, confusion, sudden dizziness/fainting, pain/swelling/warmth in the groin/calf, slurred speech, sudden shortness of breath/rapid breathing, unusual headaches (including headaches with vision changes/lack of coordination, worsening of migraines, sudden/very severe headaches), unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body, vision problems/changes (such as double vision, partial/complete blindness).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
FAQs
What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?
There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.
What is the best dosage to take?
The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.
What happens if I miss a dose?
You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.
What is the best way to store this medication?
This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.
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