Deciding which brand of birth control to use can be difficult. Even when you have it narrowed down to either Yaz or Tri-Sprintec, it can be hard to know which one will be the best choice for your specific situation. Learning which factors to consider when comparing these two medications is the first step in selecting the oral contraceptive pill that is best for you.
Step 1
Compare the uses of each medication. While Tri-Sprintec is only intended to prevent pregnancy, Yaz can be used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder and moderate acne. It also contains only four inactive pills each cycle, unlike Tri-Sprintec, which contains seven inactive pills; so periods may become lighter and shorter, according to the official website for Yaz.
Step 2
Discuss the ingredients of each medication with a doctor or pharmacist. Both medications contain ethinyl estradiol, a synthetic hormone, but Yaz contains drospirenone, a synthetic progestin, while Tri-Sprintec contains norgestimate, a form of progesterone. Ask how each of these ingredients may affect you.
Step 3
Study the difference between monophasic birth control pills and multiphasic birth control pills with a doctor. Yaz is a monophasic birth control pill, which means each pill contains the same amount of hormones. Tri-Sprintec is a multiphasic birth control pill, so each week of pills may contain a different amount of hormones. Although the World Health Organization states that multiphasic pills generally do not appear to have any advantages over monophasic pills, discuss your specific situation with your doctor to determine which choice may be best for you.
Step 4
Check your health insurance and local pharmacies to compare the monthly cost of each medication. Since Tri-Sprintec is a generic birth control medication and Yaz is a brand name, Tri-Sprintec may be less expensive.
Tips and Warnings
- Check Yaz's official website for coupons when determining the monthly cost of the medication. Ask family members and friends if they have any personal experiences they could share about either medication that may make your decision easier.
- Both Yaz and Tri-Sprintec can cause serious side effects. Women who experience sudden numbness, weakness, chest pain, swelling or symptoms of depression while taking either of these medications should contact a doctor as soon as possible.
