Sprintec

Sprintec is a combination of Ethinyl Estradiol and Norgestimate, which has been marketed as Mononessa, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Sprintec, Tri-Sprintec and other brand names. Sprintec is an oral contraceptive that combines natural and synthetic sex hormones (estrogens and progestins) in an effort to stop ovulation and pregnancy. Sprintec uses both and estrogens and progestins because a combination tends to work better than a single ingredient contraceptive. In addition to effective birth control, Sprintec can also be used for regulating menstrual flow, treating acne and resolving other hormonal problems in women.

Before You Use Sprintec Birth Control

Sprintec should be prescribed by a doctor since he or she will need to know about other medical conditions, possible allergic reactions and any other medications you are taking. Patients who suffer from blood clots, blood sugar problems, cancer, depression, heart problems, liver disease, stroke or menstrual problems may be at risk with the medication. In addition, women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant and smokers may also be at risk. There are many drugs (found in common beverages)that may directly or indirectly interact with Sprintec, including barbiturate medicines, caffeine, grapefruit juice, mineral oil, St. John's Wort, Theophylline and alcohol.

Tri Sprintec should be swallowed at a suitable time of the day and at the same time of the day, once you determine a schedule. Most products contain 21 day supplies, while some also have an extra 7 pills that can be taken during the week of menstruation. Usually, products should be started on the first Sunday after you start your period or on the first day of your period. However, you can ask your doctor which day is best for you. It is also recommended that you keep an extra month's worth of pills to make sure that you don't miss the first day of the next cycle. how long before sprintec becomes effective? As with most oral contraceptives, it is recommended that a couple use a back up method for at least fourteen days after starting on the pill. The body needs some time to adjust to changing hormone levels and thus prevent ovulation from occurring.

Sprintec Side Effects

Before taking Tri Sprintec birth control, it is important to relate any preexisting conditions or other medications you are taking to your doctor. Otherwise, you run the risk of experiencing allergic reactions to Sprintec, which could include blood clots, chest pain, coughing up blood, dizziness or fainting spells, severe headache or stomach pain, swelling, numbness in the arms or legs, or shortness of breath. Other conditions to watch for include breast tissue changes, vaginal bleeding, yellowing of the eyes or skin or vaginal infection. Besides these major side effects, minor reactions to Sprintec may include spottong beyond the three initial cycles of pills, breast tenderness, weight gain, mild upset stomach and changes in mood.

The average price for sprintec is just under $30.00 for 1 disp pack, found at such retailers as DrugStore.com.