Indications 

Select 21-day contraceptive pills are a type of oral contraceptive designed to be taken daily for 21 days to prevent unplanned pregnancies.  

These pills contain hormones, typically a combination of estrogen and progestin, that work together to prevent ovulation and create a barrier for sperm to reach the egg for fertilization. The hormones in the pill can cause the cervical mucus to become thicker, making it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach the egg. 

Use and Dosage 

Select 21-day pills are designed to be taken for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break period. During this break period, you will likely experience withdrawal bleeding, which is similar to a menstrual period. Taking the pills after your evening meal or at bedtime may help if you have stomach upset or nausea with the medication. You may choose to take it at another time of day that is easier for you to remember. 

The Select 21-day contraceptive pills are typically packaged in a 21-day pack, with each pill containing hormones. You take one pill daily for 21 days, without any pill-free interval. After completing the 21 days, you may have a 7-day break where you do not take any pills, allowing for a withdrawal bleed like a period. During this pill-free interval, note that you are still protected against pregnancy as long as you have taken the pills correctly for the previous 21 days. 

If you miss a pill, refer to the instructions provided with your specific brand of contraceptive pills. If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time. If you miss multiple pills, consult your healthcare provider for guidance. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects  

• Nausea and vomiting 
• Headache 
• Breast tenderness or enlargement 
• Mood changes 
• Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, such as breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods 
• Decreased libido 
• Weight gain or fluid retention 

Serious Side Effects 

• Blood clots in the legs, lungs, heart, or brain 
• Heart attack or stroke 
• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Gallbladder disease 
• Breast, cervical, or liver cancer 
• Depression 
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Severe allergic reactions 

Cautions 

• Select 21-day may increase the risk of developing blood clots, especially in smokers over age 35 or individuals with a history of clots or certain medical conditions. 
• Select 21-day may cause severe mood problems in some individuals, particularly with older versions of oral contraceptives that contain ethinylestradiol. 
• Missing doses or taking the medication at different times of the day than usual may increase the risk of pregnancy. 
• Select 21-day may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, and epilepsy drugs. 
• Select 21-day may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, including a history of heart attack, stroke, or breast cancer. 
• These pills may cause high blood pressure or worsen existing high blood pressure, and therefore should be used with caution in individuals with a history of high blood pressure.  
• These pills may increase the risk of gallbladder disease.  
• It may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting, particularly during the first few months of use.  
• These pills may interact with herbal supplements, such as St. John’s Wort, which may reduce the effectiveness of the medication.  
• Individuals with liver disease should be monitored closely while taking Select 21 day, as it may worsen liver function.  
• These pills may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and cervical cancer. 
• These pills may cause serious allergic reactions in some individuals, including hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.