Alesse is an oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel manufactured by Wyeth a division of Pfizer. The combination of these female hormones prevents the release of an egg so a woman cannot get pregnant. It can also increase the cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg or for the egg to attach to the uterus. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Alesse as it can be harmful to both the unborn baby and the nursing infant. Alesse, like any birth control pill, has the potential for side effects.
Common Effects of Birth Control
Similar to other oral contraceptives, Alesse increases the risk of t thromboembolic disorders such as blood clots, myocardial infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, carcinoma of the reproductive organs and breasts, benign liver tumors, lesions of the eyes, gallbladder disease, carbohydrate and lipid effects, elevated blood pressure and headaches, including migraines.
Mild Side Effects
An increase in acne, weight gain, changes in mood, menstrual changes, nausea, and spotting are mild side effects associated with the use of Alesse. Some women may welcome the changes as Alesse may reduce acne, shorten the period or reduce menstrual cramps. Drugs.com also identifies other mild side effects to be breast pain or tenderness, darkness of the skin, vaginal itching or discharge and decreased sex drive. Any mild side effects that cause too much discomfort should be reported to your medical care provider.
Serious Side Effects
Hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, swelling of the tongue or swelling of the throat are potential signs of allergy to Alesse and require medical attention. Other serious side effects that require medical attention include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, sudden headache, confusion, pain behind the eyes, blurred vision or speech, pain in the chest that moves down the arm or shoulder, a change in pattern or severity of migraine headaches, abdominal pain, appetite changes, dark urine or jaundice, swelling of the extremities and any signs of depression, sleeplessness or severe mood swings.
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