Mercilon

Manufacturer
Merck Sharp & Dohme
 
Contents
Desogestrel 150 mcg, ethinylestradiol 20 mcg
 
Indication
Mercilon is used for preventing pregnancy. Mercilon is a progesterone and estrogen combination birth control pill. It works by preventing ovulation, thickening the mucus in the cervix, and changing the lining of the uterus.
 
Instruction
Use Mercilon as directed by your doctor.

• Take Mercilon by mouth with or without food.
• Talk with your doctor about how you should start to take your first pack of Mercilon. If you begin to take Mercilon during the first 24 hours of your period, you do not need to use an extra form of birth control. If you begin to take Mercilon on the Sunday after your period starts, you will need to use an extra form of birth control for 7 days after you start taking Mercilon.
• If you are switching from another birth control pill to Mercilon, start Mercilon on the same day that would have started a new pack of your previous birth control pills. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions about how to switch from another form of hormonal birth control to Mercilon.
• Take Mercilon at the same time every day, not more than 2 hours apart. After taking the last pill in the pack, start taking the first pill from a new pack the very next day.
• For Mercilon to be effective, it must be taken every day. Do not skip doses even if you do not have sex very often. Do not skip pills if you are spotting, bleeding, or nauseated. If you have these side effects and they do not go away, check with your doctor.
• If you miss 1 dose of Mercilon, take it as soon as you remember. Take your next dose at the regular time. This means you may take 2 doses on the same day. You do not need to use a backup form of birth control if you only miss 1 pill. If you miss more than 1 dose, read the extra patient leaflet that comes with Mercilon or contact your doctor for instructions. You must use a backup form of birth control if you miss more than 1 dose. If you are not sure how to handle missed doses, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms) until you talk with your doctor.