Siluette® (Dienogest, Ethinylestradiol) 2 mg/0.03 mg

What is Siluette® (Dienogest, Ethinylestradiol) 2 mg/0.03 mg?

Siluette® is an oral contraceptive that combines Dienogest and Ethinylestradiol.

This medication is used primarily for contraception and for treating mild to moderate acne in women who also require contraception.

Siluette® works by inhibiting ovulation, increasing the viscosity of cervical mucus, and altering the structure of the endometrium, which collectively helps prevent pregnancy.

How is Siluette® Administered?

Siluette® is taken orally, one tablet per day, ideally at the same time each day.

Each blister pack contains 21 tablets, and after completing a pack, a 7-day break follows, during which withdrawal bleeding typically occurs.

The next pack should be started immediately after this break.

If switching from another form of hormonal contraception, or after childbirth or abortion, specific guidelines should be followed for starting Siluette® to ensure effective contraception.

What Are the Ingredients in Siluette®?

Each tablet of Siluette® contains:

• Active Ingredients: 2 mg of Dienogest and 0.03 mg of Ethinylestradiol.
• Other Ingredients: Lactose monohydrate, corn starch, hypromellose, talc, potassium polyacrylate, and magnesium stearate.
• Film Coating: Includes polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide, macrogol 3350, and talc.

How Does Siluette® Work?

Siluette® provides its contraceptive effect through several mechanisms:

• Inhibition of Ovulation: Prevents the release of an egg from the ovaries.
• Thickening of Cervical Mucus: Makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.
• Endometrial Changes: Reduces the likelihood of implantation if fertilization occurs.

What Should You Consider Before Taking Siluette®?

Before starting Siluette®, it’s important to discuss your medical history with a healthcare provider, especially if you have conditions such as:

• History of blood clots or stroke
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes with vascular complications
• Liver disease
• Uncontrolled high cholesterol
• A history of hormone-sensitive cancers

Women over the age of 35 who smoke should not use Siluette® due to an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Siluette®?

Like all medications, Siluette® may cause side effects. Commonly reported side effects include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Weight gain
• Mood changes

More serious but rare side effects include blood clots, stroke, and liver tumors. It's crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of blood clots such as sudden leg pain, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.

How Should Siluette® Be Stored?

Store Siluette® at room temperature, not exceeding 25°C (77°F).

Keep the medication out of reach of children and protect it from moisture and direct sunlight.

What Should You Do If You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose of Siluette® and it's less than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember and continue with the next dose at the usual time.

If more than 12 hours have passed, follow the guidelines provided in the medication leaflet, which typically involves taking the missed dose as soon as possible and using additional contraception, like condoms, for the next 7 days.

Can Siluette® Be Used During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding?

Siluette® is not recommended for use during pregnancy.

If you become pregnant while taking Siluette®, stop the medication immediately.

It should also not be used while breastfeeding, as it may affect milk production and pass through breast milk.