Novelon Tablet

Drug | Tablet

Oral contraception (prevention of pregnancy); may also help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce menstrual bleeding/pain as directed by a doctor

This combined oral contraceptive suppresses ovulation by inhibiting gonadotropin release. It also thickens cervical mucus and alters the endometrium, making fertilization and implantation less likely.

Tablet (oral). Take 1 tablet once daily at the same time each day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval (or as per pack instructions). Start on Day 1 of menstruation (or as advised). Can be taken with or without food. If a dose is missed or vomiting/diarrhea occurs, follow missed-pill instructions and use backup contraception.

Nausea, headache, breast tenderness, breakthrough bleeding/spotting, abdominal pain, mood changes, weight change, acne, bloating

Not for use in pregnancy. Does not protect against HIV/STIs. Increased risk of blood clots (DVT/PE), stroke and heart attack—risk higher in smokers >35 years, obesity, prolonged immobilization, personal/family history of thrombosis. Avoid/contraindicated in current/past thromboembolism, migraine with aura, severe hypertension, severe liver disease/tumors, known/suspected breast or estrogen-dependent cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding. Stop before major surgery or prolonged immobilization as advised. Monitor BP; use caution in diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, depression, gallbladder disease.

Enzyme inducers may reduce efficacy: rifampicin/rifabutin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, primidone, topiramate, oxcarbazepine, griseofulvin, St John’s wort; some antiretrovirals (e.g., efavirenz, some protease inhibitors). Lamotrigine levels may decrease (reduced seizure control). May affect warfarin response; monitor INR. Broad-spectrum antibiotics may require backup in some cases—follow doctor advice.

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Marvelon Tablet, Desogen Tablet, Mercilon Tablet, Femilon Tablet, Novelon (other pack sizes/variants)