Ortho Evra is a medication in a classification known as oral contraceptives. They are used for the prevention of pregnancy. Ortho Evra comes in the form of a transdermal skin patch that is applied to the skin once weekly for a period of three weeks, with a break on the fourth week. The patch uses the hormones estrogen and progestin to inhibit ovulation and alter cervical mucous and the uterine lining. There are some side effects of Ortho Evra that users should be aware of.
Common Side Effects
According to Planned Parenthood, some of the most common side effects usually clear up after two or three months. These side effects include menstrual irregularity, breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting. Patients may experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods. Breakthrough bleeding usually diminishes after the body has a chance to adjust to hormonal contraception. Users may experience breast tenderness similar to the tenderness they may experience prior to a menstrual period. Nausea and vomiting may occur with Ortho Evra. Contact a physician if vomiting becomes severe, as it may lead to dehydration.
Less Serious Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, bloating, stomach cramps, unpleasant taste, freckles or darkening of skin, increased hair growth, loss of scalp hair, changes in weight and appetite, difficulties with contact lenses, vaginal itching, vaginal discharge, decreased sex drive, fatigue and dizziness may occur while using the Ortho Evra birth control patch. Users may also experience mild skin irritation at the site of the applied patch. These side effects are not considered dangerous but should be reported to a healthcare provider. If side effects become intolerable, a patient may consider changing her method of contraception.
Serious Side Effects
Users over 35 years of age who smoke are at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke while using oral contraceptives. Women who experience severe migraine headaches should not use Ortho Evra. Signs and symptoms of a severe reaction include chest pain, pain spreading to the arm or jaw, numbness on one side of the body, generalized weakness, shortness of breath, swelling of the extremities, a yellowing of the skin or sclera (white part of the eye), a lump in the breast or severe mood changes and depression. These side effects should be reported to a physician immediately.
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