Side Effects of Ortho Evra

Overview

Ortho Evra is a contraceptive patch that contains norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol. Every week the user applies a small patch onto the body in one of several locations. During the week of menstruation, no patch is worn. According to the manufacturer, when used appropriately, Ortho Evra leads to pregnancy only 1 percent of the time in women using this method of contraception. Like any other contraceptive, Ortho Evra does have a potential for side effects.

Local Side Effects

Mild irritation at the side of Ortho Evra application may occur. This includes mild redness and itching. Contact a medical professional if the skin blisters, peels, or becomes extremely irritated. Individuals with sensitive skin may notice more irritation initially.

Common Side Effects

According to OrthoEvra.com, the most commonly occurring side effects include breast tenderness, headache, nausea, upper respiratory infection, menstrual cramps and abdominal pain. These symptoms should be mild. Contact your doctor if you have concerns about these side effects.

Severe Risks

Patients using Ortho Evra increase their risk of several serious medical concerns. The patch exposes users to 60 percent more estrogen than oral contraceptives. This is due to the method of receiving hormones via the skin. Estrogen increases the likelihood of side effects. Blood clots in the legs and lungs can be the most serious result of using the patch. Other risks include hemorrhaging, hypertension, gallbladder disease and benign liver tumors.

Smoking

Smoking is not recommended for anyone using hormonal contraceptives. This applies to Ortho Evra as well. The risk of serious cardiovascular side effects is dramatically increased for smokers when using the contraceptive patch. Smokers should stop using cigarettes before using Ortho Evra.

Who Should Not Use Ortho Evra

Individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer of any reproductive organs should not use Ortho Evra. Other serious health complications that can prevent the prescribing of Ortho Evra include cardiovascular ailments, liver disease, and blood clots.

When to Avoid Ortho Evra

According to Drugs.com, individuals with elevated blood pressure, or any diabetes-related complications of the kidneys, eyes, nerves or blood vessels should not use the contraceptive patch. Ortho Evra is not safe to use while breastfeeding.