Dosage instructions for Ortho Tri-Cyclen and Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo--which are almost exactly the same, except for the amount of estrogen--are identical. Both are available only by prescription and must be taken every day, exactly as directed, in order to effectively prevent pregnancy. Also known as "The Pill," Ortho Tri-Cyclen may help protect against ovarian and uterine cancer and acute pelvic inflammatory disease and may help reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.
Step 1
Start taking your Ortho Tri-Cyclen pills either on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period starts.
Step 2
Take one pill every day, starting with the white pills, then the light-blue and finally the dark-blue pills, followed by the seven green pills. You will menstruate during the time when you take the green pills.
Step 3
Start a new pack of Ortho Tri-Cyclen--beginning with the white pills again--the day after you take your last green pill from the previous pack.
Tips and Warnings
- Taking your pill at the same time each day helps make it a part of your daily routine, ensuring that you won't accidentally miss pills. If you miss taking one of the white, light blue or dark-blue pills, you should take it as soon as you notice the oversight and then take the next pill at the normal time.
- If you start taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen the first Sunday after your period starts, you must use another form of birth control for backup during the first seven days of Ortho Tri-Cyclen usage. If you miss more than one pill, you may need to use a form of backup birth control (see Resources). Always keep your doctor informed about any prescription drugs and herbal supplements you take; some may interact with and lessen the efficacy of your Ortho Tri-Cyclen pills.
