Opill OTC vs other birth control pills: What's the difference?
Opill is a progestin-only pill, which makes it different from other birth control pills that contain both estrogen and a progestin (such as Yaz, Junel FE, Lutera, or Sprintec) although you can get progestin-only pills (such as Cerazette, errin, and Heather) on prescription. Progestin-only pills are often called mini-pills, so Opill is a type of mini-pill.
Is Opill as effective as other birth control?
Progestin-only pills, including Opill, may have a slightly lower effectiveness compared to combination estrogen/progestin pills. To enhance their efficacy, it is recommended to take them consistently at the same time each day or within a 3-hour window of the same time daily. Progestin-only pills are often chosen for birth control by individuals who cannot take estrogen, including those who are breastfeeding.
How does Opill work?
Opill prevents conception in several different ways:
- Thickening cervical mucus to inhibit sperm penetration
- Lowering the midcycle LH and FSH peaks
- Slowing the movement of the egg through the fallopian tubes
- Altering the lining of the endometrium
- Suppressing ovulation in approximately half of the menstrual cycles of females who use it.
References
- Opill Tablets https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/017031s035s036lbl.pdf
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