Contraception treatment Rigevidon

rigevidon, contraception treatment

What is Rigevidon?

Rigevidon is a combined oral contraceptive (COC), commonly referred to as the pill. Comprising a low dose of two female hormones, ethinylestradiol (an oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestogen), it serves as an effective means of preventing pregnancy. 

Note that while combined oral contraceptives such as Rigevidon are effective against pregnancy, they do not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. For STI prevention, the use of condoms is essential. 

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What is Rigevidon used for?

Rigevidon is primarily used as a combined oral contraceptive (COC), commonly known as the pill. It contains two female hormones, ethinylestradiol (an oestrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestogen), in a low dose.  

This contraceptive works by preventing pregnancy in three ways: 

  • inhibiting the release of an egg from the ovary each month (ovulation) 

  • thickening the cervical fluid at the neck of the womb, making it more challenging for sperm to reach the egg 

  • modifying the lining of the womb to decrease the likelihood of accepting a fertilised egg 

In addition to its contraceptive purpose, Rigevidon may also be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate menstrual cramps, and manage conditions like acne. It's essential to note that Rigevidon does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and for STI prevention, the use of condoms or other barrier methods is recommended. Always adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions and communicate any concerns or side effects you may encounter while using Rigevidon. 

Who can and cannot take medicines containing Rigevidon?

Before starting Rigevidon, it's crucial to be aware of certain conditions and situations that may affect its suitability for you. Here's a guide to help you navigate whether Rigevidon is the right contraceptive choice for you: 

During your consultation, the doctor will inquire about your personal health history and that of close relatives. Additionally, blood pressure measurement and, in some cases, additional tests may be conducted. 

You should avoid or discontinue Rigevidon use if: 

  • you are allergic to ethinylestradiol, levonorgestrel, or any other ingredients included in Rigevidon 

  • you have a history of blood clots in the legs, lungs, or other organs 

  • you have a blood clotting disorder or related condition 

  • you have an upcoming operation or will be immobile for a period of time  

  • you've experienced a heart attack, stroke, or angina pectoris 

  • you have or have previously had migraines with aura 

  • specific diseases that increase the risk of arterial clots, such as severe diabetes, very high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, or hyperhomocysteinaemia 

  • you have or are suspected of having breast or genital cancer 

  • you have liver disease, a liver tumour, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or take certain medications to treat hepatitis C 

Warnings and precautions

Before taking Rigevidon, consult your doctor if you have: 

  • elevated fat levels in the blood or a family history of this condition 

  • planned surgery or extended immobility 

  • cardiovascular issues in you or close family 

  • vein inflammation, varicose veins, or a family history of blood clotting problems 

  • migraines, diabetes, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or certain medical conditions 

  • conditions like depression, movement disorder, liver or gall bladder disease, porphyria, sickle cell anaemia, or haemolytic uraemic syndrome 

  • systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), herpes gestationis, or chloasma 

Blood clot risks

Using Rigevidon increases the risk of blood clots. Factors influencing risk include age, smoking status, obesity, family history, surgery, and immobility. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of blood clots. 

Other medications and Rigevidon

Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking, as certain drugs may interact with Rigevidon. St. John's wort should be avoided. 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid Rigevidon if pregnant. If breastfeeding and considering the pill, consult your doctor for guidance. 

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How effective is Rigevidon as a contraceptive?

When taken correctly, the pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 who use the combined pill as contraception will get pregnant in 1 year.  

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Frequently asked questions

Like all medications, Rigevidon may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. It's important to be aware of potential effects, both common and rare, and seek medical advice if needed. 

Serious side effects: 

Contact your doctor immediately if you encounter symptoms of angioedema, including a swollen face, tongue, or throat, difficulty swallowing, hives, or breathing difficulties. Additionally, all women using combined hormonal contraceptives, including Rigevidon, face an increased risk of blood clots in veins (VTE) or arteries (ATE).  

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): 

  • vaginitis 

  • mood swings, including depression 

  • changes in interest in sex 

  • nervousness 

  • dizziness 

  • nausea 

  • abdominal pain 

  • acne 

  • tender breasts 

  • breast pain, enlargement, and discharge 

  • painful menstruation 

  • abnormality of the cervix (change in cervical ectropion) and vaginal secretion 

  • no or reduced bleeding 

  • fluid retention/oedema 

  • changes in weight 

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): 

  • changes in appetite 

  • elevated blood pressure 

  • abdominal cramps 

  • bloating 

  • rash 

  • chloasma (yellow-brown patches on the skin) 

  • excessive hair growth or hair loss 

  • changes in serum lipid levels, including hypertriglyceridemia 

Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): 

  • severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic reaction with rare cases of hives, facial swelling, circulatory and respiratory disorders) 

  • glucose intolerance 

  • eye irritation with contact lenses 

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin) 

  • erythema nodosum (painful reddish skin nodules) 

  • harmful blood clots in veins or arteries (DVT, PE, heart attack, stroke, TIA, blood clots in liver, stomach/intestine, kidneys, or eye) 

Very rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people): 

  • benign or malignant liver tumours 

  • aggravation of immune system diseases (lupus) 

  • aggravation of porphyria 

  • exacerbation of chorea (involuntary movement disorder) 

  • inflammation of the optic nerve 

  • blood clots in eye blood vessels 

  • aggravation of varicose veins 

  • ischaemic colitis (inflammation of the large intestine) 

  • pancreatitis 

  • gallbladder disease (including gallstones) 

  • erythema multiforme (rash with target-shaped reddening or sores) 

  • haemolytic uraemic syndrome - HUS (a disorder causing kidney failure due to blood clots) 

  • decrease in serum folate levels 

Side effects with unknown frequency based on limited available data: 

  • inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis) 

  • hepatocellular injury (e.g., hepatitis, abnormal hepatic function) 

Rigevidon is a white, round, and coated tablet that contains two active ingredients: levonorgestrel (150 micrograms) and ethinylestradiol (30 micrograms). Other ingredients include colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate, talc, maize starch, lactose monohydrate, sucrose, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide (E171), copovidone, macrogol 6000, and povidone carmellose sodium. 

One pill should be taken every day for 21 days, before a 7-day break when you will have a bleed like a period. You’ll then resume taking one pill per day from the next packet for 21 days before your next week-long break. Each box of Rigevidon will provide a 3-month supply (3 packets).  

You may be able to take some types of the pill with no or shorter breaks (a tailored regime), which may reduce some side effects. Speak to a doctor or nurse about your options.  

Aim to take the pill at around the same time every day. This will help ensure optimal protection. Your chances of pregnancy could increase if you miss a pill, experience sickness and vomiting, or have severe diarrhoea.