Indications 

Ovral Lo is a combination oral contraceptive pill that contains two hormones: norgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. It is taken for a 21-day cycle, followed by a 7-day break. During the 21 days, one active pill is taken daily at around the same time each day.  

Ovral Lo works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and by making the cervical mucus thicker, which makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus and reach an egg. 

Use and Dosage 

Ovral Lo Birth Control comes in packs of 21-day tablets to take by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Pick a time of day that is easy for you to remember and take your pill at the same time each day. Ovral Lo is typically taken once a day at the same time each day.  

The pills should be taken in the order specified on the blister pack. After completing 21 days of active pills, you should have a 7-day pill-free interval, during which you may experience withdrawal bleeding (similar to a period). After the 7-day break, start a new pack of Ovral Lo. 

If you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the regular time. If you miss two active pills in a row in the first or second week, take two pills on the day you remember and two pills the next day. Then continue taking one pill a day until you finish the pack. If you miss two active pills in a row in the third week or if you miss three or more active pills in a row, discard the current pack and start a new pack the same day. Use additional contraception (such as condoms) for the next seven days. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Acne 
• Bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods 
• Breast tenderness, enlargement, or discharge 
• Brown or black skin patches 
• Changes in menstrual flow 
• Constipation 
• Diarrhea 
• Gingivitis (swelling of the gum tissue) 
• Hair growth in unusual places 
• Increased or decreased appetite 
• Nausea 
• Painful or missed periods 
• Stomach cramps or bloating 
• Swelling, redness, irritation, burning, or itching of the vagina 
• Vomiting 
• Weight gain or weight loss 
• White vaginal discharge 

Serious Side Effects

• Bulging eyes 
• Coughing up blood 
• Crushing chest pain or chest heaviness 
• Dark-colored urine 
• Depression, especially if you also have trouble sleeping, tiredness, loss of energy, or other mood changes 
• Dizziness or faintness 
• Double vision 
• Extreme tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy 
• Fever 
• Leg pain 
• Light-colored stool 
• Loss of appetite 
• Partial or complete loss of vision 
• Rash 
• Severe headache 
• Severe stomach pain 
• Severe vomiting 
• Shortness of breath 
• Speech problems 
• Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs 
• Unusual bleeding 
• Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Cautions 

• Age: Ovral Lo is not recommended for use in women who have not yet started menstruating or who have reached menopause. Discuss your age and reproductive status with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate contraceptive method. 
• Allergies and Sensitivities: If you have a known allergy or sensitivity to any of the components of Ovral Lo, including norgestrel, ethinyl estradiol, or any other inactive ingredients, inform your healthcare provider. They can recommend alternative contraceptive options that are safe for you. 
• Blood Clotting Disorders: Ovral Lo may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women with a history of blood clotting disorders or a family history of such conditions. Inform your healthcare provider about any clotting disorders or related medical conditions. 
• Interactions: Ovral Lo may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, anticonvulsants, antifungals, and herbal supplements. These interactions can reduce the effectiveness of the birth control pill. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking. 
• Medical Conditions: Ovral Lo may not be suitable for everyone. Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, liver disease, or a history of blood clots. Certain conditions may increase the risk of complications or limit the use of Ovral Lo. 
• Migraines: Women who experience severe migraines with aura may have an increased risk of stroke while using combination hormonal contraceptives like Ovral Lo.  
• Pregnancy: Ovral Lo is contraindicated during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking the medication, stop using it and consult your healthcare provider. 
• Smoking: Smoking while taking Ovral Lo increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, such as blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. Quit smoking if you are using the birth control pill.