Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo Side Effects

Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo is a birth control pill that contains ethinyl estradiol (a synthetic form of estrogen) and norgestimate (a synthetic form of progesterone), two hormones that can prevent contraception. While this pill contains lower doses of hormones than other oral contraceptives, there are still a number of possible side effects of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo. If these side effects are persistent, it may be necessary to use an alternate method of pregnancy prevention.

Nervous System

Headaches are one of the most common nervous system side effects of this drug. These headaches can occur in response to the estrogen contained in oral contraceptives like Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, frequent headaches may require a change to a pill that does not contain estrogen. If headaches persist, oral contraceptive use may be discontinued in favor of other contraceptives.

Cardiovascular System

Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, along with other oral contraceptives, has been associated with an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events. According to Drugs.com, oral contraceptives increase the risk of arterial blood clots, heart attack, hypertension, cerebral blood clots and blood clots in the veins. This drug is contraindicated in people who have high blood pressure and smokers, as smoking also increases the risk of blood clots.

Gastrointestinal System

According to Drugs.com, a number of the side effects of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo involve the digestive system. This drug can cause nausea, change in appetite, vomiting and weight changes. Taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo with food can help prevent or ease some of these side effects.

Urinary System

Use of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo is associated with some urinary problems. Cystitis-like syndrome can occur, which causes symptoms such as urinary urgency, urinary frequency and pain while urinating. Another possible side effect is hemolytic uremic syndrome, which usually affects the kidneys. This condition produces toxins that destroy the red blood cells. Impaired renal function can also occur as a side effect of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo.

Reproductive System

According to PDR Health, Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo can cause vaginal bleeding that is not part of a normal menstrual period. Other side effects that involve the reproductive system include absence of a menstrual period, breast changes, breast tenderness, change in cervical secretions, vaginal yeast infections and diminished lactation if the drug is given immediately after a woman has given birth.

Skin Effects

This drug can cause a darkening of the skin, particularly the skin of the face. According to Columbia University, this is known as melasma. Skin that has been exposed to the sun is the most affected by this condition. This side effect can be lessened by wearing sunscreen and protective coverings when outdoors, or limiting sun exposure. Other skin effects of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo include itching and rash, which occur during an allergic reaction to the drug, and acne.

General Effects

This drug is associated with several general side effects, which cannot be classified by one specific body system. Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo is associated with nervousness, reduced carbohydrate tolerance, intolerance to contact lenses, jaundice (a yellowing of the skin) and dizziness.