What is Rigevidon?
Rigevidon (active hormones ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel) is a combined birth control pill that is manufactured by Gedeon Richter Plc. It is a generic version of the branded contraceptive pill Microgynon. The combination of oestrogen and progestogen is highly successful in preventing unwanted pregnancies. Most healthy women can safely use Rigevidon.
Rigevidon works in three main ways to stop you becoming pregnant. It prevents monthly ovulation, meaning that there is no egg to fertilise. The pill also thickens natural mucus at the neck of the womb, and alters the lining of the womb, creating an environment that is difficult for sperm to function in.
How to take Rigevidon?
Rigevidon is supplied in memo strips of 21 pills. Each pill is marked for a specific day of the week. Take each day’s pill at approximately the same time, e.g. first thing in the morning or before you go to bed.
When you have completed the 21 day phase, you will take a complete 7 day break before beginning a new 21 pill memo strip on the 8th day.
You will have your monthly period (menstruation) at some point during your 7 day break from taking the pill. Many women report experiencing lighter and easier periods while they are using Rigevidon.
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Important
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Who can use Rigevidon?
Most healthy women over the age of 18 can use Rigevidon to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
Rigevidon is a combined pill and may also help women who suffer from acne or difficult menstruation (heavy periods, PMS and pain). It can also protect against some forms of cancers and cysts.
When you complete your confidential medical questionnaire, our online GP will immediately review your health profile and check whether Rigevidon is the right medication for your needs. If it is not suitable and we cannot approve your order, you may be recommended a different form of contraception.
Please read the Side Effects section for full information about whether Rigevidon is suitable for you.
What is the dosage of Rigevidon?
Each Rigevidon pill contains 150 micrograms of levonorgestrel (progestogen hormone) and 30 micrograms of ethinylestradiol (oestrogen hormone). This combination of synthetic female hormones is the basis of ‘the pill’ and has been safely and successfully used by millions of women across the world for over half a century.
The relatively low doses of the active hormones may produce fewer unwelcome side effects than some other forms of oral contraception. Every woman reacts differently to birth control pills. You may also experience varied reactions to the same medication during your own lifetime.
Rigevidon tablets also contain 33mg of lactose monohydrate and 22.46mg of sucrose, as well as small amounts of other inactive ingredients.
What if I forget to take my Rigevidon pill?
If you forget to take a daily Rigevidon pill at the usual time (and less than 12 hours have passed) simply take the pill as soon as you remember - even if this means taking 2 pills on the same day. You will still be protected against pregnancy.
If you are more than 12 hours late you may be at risk of pregnancy. You should immediately refer to the manufacturer’s pamphlet (provided with your order) for advice.
What are the side effects of Rigevidon?
Rigevidon is generally safe for most women (provided that it is used exactly in accordance with the manufacturer’s and your GP’s instructions). As with all prescription medications, you may experience some side effects. If this occurs, you are welcome to contact our GP and request a different type of birth control pills.
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Can I smoke if I am using oral contraceptives? Smoking is generally not recommended while using hormonal contraception as it increases the risk of serious side effects. This is specifically true, If you are over 35 years old and smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day. Possible serious side effects may include strokes and blood clots. |
Possible common side effects
The majority of patients do not experience any significant side effects when using Rigevidon, but the following common side effects may occur in up to 10% of users:
- Vaginitis and/or vaginal candidiasis,
- Mood changes and altered emotional states
- Nausea
- Abnormal menstruation
- Altered sexual desire
- Abdominal pain
- Breast enlargement or soreness
Possible adverse reactions
Very rarely patients may experience an adverse reaction to Rigevidon. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should discontinue your treatment and seek immediate medical advice.
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Stroke
- Heart attack
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Important Your prescription will come with a patient leaflet giving detailed information about the medication, its ingredients, possible side effects and contraindications. Please read this leaflet carefully before you begin taking your tablets. |
If you experience serious discomfort, we recommend that you go straight to your nearest casualty department. In an emergency dial 999.
When not to take Rigevidon
Do not take Rigevidon if you:
- Are already pregnant
- Are very overweight
- Are over 35 and smoke
- Are over 35 and stopped smoking less than a year ago
There are certain serious medical conditions that prevent the safe use of Rigevidon. When you complete your short medical questionnaire, our online GP will immediately check your health profile to ensure that Rigevidon is a safe choice for you as an individual. You can renew your Rigevidon prescription quickly and conveniently at DoktorABC with free next day delivery.
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If you have any questions about birth control pills, contraceptive rings, or contraceptive patches you can login to your DoktorABC account and begin a free discreet online chat with our GP. |
Leaflet info
The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is the leaflet included in the pack with a medicine. It is written for patients and gives information about taking or using a medicine. It is possible that the leaflet in your medicine pack may differ from the PDF-version from this website because it may have been updated since your medicine was packaged or the medicine is from another brand.