Indications 

Select 28-day contraceptive pills are a type of combined hormonal contraceptive (CHC) that are designed to be taken daily for 28 days to prevent unplanned pregnancies.  

These pills contain a combination of hormones, typically Ethinyl estradiol and Norethindrone, that work together to prevent ovulation and create a barrier for sperm to reach the egg for fertilization. 

Use and Dosage 

Select 28-day tablets should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food. Begin taking the pills on either the first day of your menstrual cycle, or on the first Sunday after the start of your menstrual cycle. 

The 28-day contraceptive pack will typically contain 21 active pills and 7 inactive or placebo pills. Begin by taking one active pill daily, starting from the first day of your menstrual cycle or as directed by your healthcare provider. Take the active pills at the same time each day to maintain the effectiveness of the contraceptive. Setting a daily reminder or using alarms can help you remember to take the pill consistently. 

Take one active pill every day for 21 days, ensuring you don’t miss any doses. This will provide continuous hormone levels to prevent ovulation and protect against unplanned pregnancies. After completing the 21 days of active pills, switch to the 7 inactive or placebo pills. These pills do not contain hormones but are included to help you maintain a daily pill-taking routine. During this time, you may experience a withdrawal bleed, similar to a period. After completing the 21 days of active pills, switch to the 7 inactive or placebo pills. After taking all 7 inactive pills, begin a new pack of Select 28-day contraceptive tablets, starting with the active pills. Continue this cycle of taking active pills for 21 days, followed by the inactive pills for 7 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 
• Menstrual bleeding that is unusually heavy or that lasts for longer than 7 days in a row 
• 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 

• In the context of alcohol treatment, a caution is that selecting a 28-day inpatient rehab program may not be the best fit for everyone. Treatment options should be tailored to individual needs, and there are other treatment methods available that may be more suitable for certain individuals. 
• In the context of immunizations, there are guidelines stating that certain vaccines, such as MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and varicella-containing vaccines, can be administered on the same day. However, if these vaccines are not administered on the same day, they should be separated by at least 28 days. 
• PEP is a treatment option for preventing HIV infection after possible exposure. If prescribed PEP, HIV medicines are taken every day for 28 days.  
• Some medications, particularly antibiotics, may need to be taken for 28 days or longer to effectively treat certain infections.  
• In certain industries, such as skincare or beauty, “Select 28 day” may refer to product trials or testing periods. When participating in these trials, carefully read and understand the terms and conditions, potential side effects, and any commitments required during the 28-day period. 
• When making a purchase, especially for certain products like electronics or appliances, some stores may offer a 28-day return policy. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of the return policy, including any limitations, restocking fees, or required documentation. 
• In the context of financial transactions or subscriptions, “Select 28 day” may refer to a billing cycle. Be aware of billing periods and due dates to avoid late payments, service interruptions, or unexpected charges.