Mercilon Contraceptive Pill

About Mercilon

Mercilon is a low-dose combined oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy when taken correctly. Each tablet contains two female sex hormones: desogestrel 150 micrograms and ethinyl estradiol 20 micrograms. These hormones work by stopping the release of an egg from the ovaries and thickening the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach the womb.

Mercilon is a 21-day contraceptive pill. You take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day pill-free break, during which a withdrawal bleed usually occurs.

Mercilon is supplied as:

• 21-tablet strips (box of 3 strips)

What Is Mercilon Used For?

Mercilon is used to prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the womb.

Who Is Mercilon Suitable For?

Mercilon may be suitable for healthy adult women who want a reliable, reversible method of contraception.

Do not take Mercilon if you:

• Have or have ever had blood clots in the legs, lungs or other organs
• Have had a heart attack, stroke, angina or TIA
• Have migraine with aura
• Have severe liver disease or liver tumours
• Have hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast or womb cancer
• Are pregnant or might be pregnant
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Are allergic to any of the ingredients

How to Take Mercilon

1. Take one tablet every day at the same time.
2. Follow the arrows on the blister strip.
3. Take tablets for 21 consecutive days.
4. Have a 7-day break with no tablets.
5. Start the next strip on time, even if bleeding continues.

Possible Side Effects of Mercilon

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Nausea or abdominal pain
• Breast tenderness
• Weight gain
• Mood changes or low mood

Uncommon side effects:

• Migraine
• Fluid retention
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Skin rash or hives

Rare but serious side effects:

• Blood clots in veins or arteries
• High blood pressure
• Liver problems

Warnings and Precautions

• May slightly increase the risk of blood clots.
• Risk is higher if you smoke and are over 35 years old.
• Tell your doctor if you have migraines, diabetes, liver disease or depression.
• Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C.
• Do not refrigerate.
• Keep in the original packaging to protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.