Name: The Pill (Various)
Class: Oral Contraceptive (Estrogen/Progestin Combination)
Mechanism: Blocks ovulation, suppresses endometrial growth, produces changes in cervical mucus ® block of sperm penetration.
Absorption: Oral.
Dist.: Metabolism.: Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Breakthrough bleeding, amenorrhea, water retention, headache, breast fullness, depression, dizziness, edema, headache, n/v, weight gain, acne, cardiovascular disease (esp. in smokers over age 35). Absolute C/Is—thromboembolic disorder, CVA, CAD, ¯ liver fxn, hepatic adenoma, estrogen-dependent cancer (e.g., breast, endometrium), pregnancy, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, tobacco use over age 35. Relative C/Is—migraine headaches, hypertension, leiomyomata, diabetes mellitus or prev. gestational diabetes, elective surgery, seizures or anticonvulsant use, obstructive jaundice in pregnancy, sickle cell disease, gall bladder disease.
Utility: Contraception, dysmenorrhea, prophylaxis against endometriosis.
Special Features: Decreases the risks of endometrial and ovarian cancer and benign breast disease.