Belara® (Chlormadinon, Ethinylestradiol) 2 mg/0.03 mg, 21 tablets

What is Belara®?

Belara® is an oral contraceptive that contains two active ingredients: Chlormadinone Acetate (2 mg) and Ethinylestradiol (0.03 mg).

It is specifically designed to prevent pregnancy by employing multiple mechanisms.

Firstly, it inhibits ovulation, and secondly, it alters the properties of cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus.

Additionally, Belara® helps regulate the menstrual cycle, reduces the severity of premenstrual symptoms, and lowers the risk of certain reproductive system disorders.

This comprehensive approach makes Belara® not just a contraceptive but also a tool for improving menstrual health.

How Does Belara® Work?

Belara® works by suppressing the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are essential for ovulation.

By preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries, Belara® effectively prevents pregnancy.

Moreover, it causes changes in the cervical mucus, making it thicker and more difficult for sperm to pass through.

The active ingredient Chlormadinone Acetate is a progestogen with anti-androgenic properties, meaning it can reduce the effects of male hormones (androgens) in the body.

This is particularly beneficial for women who experience androgen-related issues such as acne or excessive hair growth.

The other active component, Ethinylestradiol, increases the production of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which helps to lower the levels of free testosterone in the blood, thereby enhancing the contraceptive effect.

What Are the Benefits of Belara®?

Beyond its primary role as a contraceptive, Belara® offers several additional benefits:

• Regulation of the menstrual cycle: Belara® helps maintain a regular menstrual cycle, which can be especially beneficial for women with irregular periods.

• Reduction in premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms: The medication can alleviate common PMS symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, and irritability, making the days leading up to your period more manageable.

• Lower risk of iron-deficiency anemia: By reducing the amount of menstrual bleeding, Belara® lowers the risk of developing anemia due to iron loss during heavy periods.

• Prevention of ovarian cysts: Belara® decreases the likelihood of developing functional ovarian cysts, which can cause pain and other complications.

• Protection against certain cancers: Regular use of Belara® has been associated with a lower risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers, offering long-term health benefits beyond contraception.

  
  

How Should You Take Belara®?

Belara® should be taken daily, starting on the first day of your menstrual cycle.

The tablet should be taken at the same time each day for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break during which you may experience withdrawal bleeding, similar to a menstrual period.

After this 7-day break, start a new pack, even if the bleeding has not stopped.

If you miss a dose and it’s been less than 12 hours, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember.

If it’s been more than 12 hours, take the missed tablet immediately, but use additional contraception methods (like condoms) for the next 7 days.

This is crucial for maintaining the contraceptive effectiveness of Belara®.

What Should You Know Before Taking Belara®?

Before starting Belara®, it’s important to assess any personal health conditions that might affect its use. Women with a history of blood clots, certain types of cancers, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or other serious health issues should avoid taking Belara®.

Additionally, smoking, especially in women over 35, significantly increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects when using hormonal contraceptives like Belara®. It's essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits based on your health status and lifestyle.

What Are the Potential Side Effects?

While Belara® is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects, including:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are common in the initial days of use as the body adjusts to the hormones.
• Headaches or migraines: Some women may experience an increase in the frequency or severity of headaches.
• Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes can cause the breasts to feel tender or swollen.
• Mood changes, such as depression or irritability: Hormonal fluctuations can impact mood, and it’s important to monitor these changes.
• Changes in body weight: Some users might notice slight weight gain or loss.
• Skin reactions, such as acne or pigmentation changes: Belara® can sometimes cause or exacerbate skin conditions.

In rare cases, more serious side effects like blood clots, liver tumors, or increased blood pressure may occur. If you experience symptoms like severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or visual disturbances, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

How Should Belara® Be Stored?

Store Belara® tablets in their original packaging at a temperature not exceeding 30°C (86°F) and keep them out of reach of children.

The product has a shelf life of 3 years from the manufacturing date, so it’s important to check the expiration date before use.