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Cyclessa Side Effects

Generic name: desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Cyclessa Side Effects associated with desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Cyclessa.

Applies to desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol: oral tablet.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Oral route (kit)

Smoking is not advised in women using oral contraceptives.

Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from oral contraceptive use.

This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in women over 35 years of age.

Oral route (tablet)

Ortho-Cept®: Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from combination oral contraceptive use.

This risk increases with age and with the number of cigarettes smoked and is quite marked in women over 35 years of age.

Use of combination oral contraceptives is not recommended in women who are over 35 years of age that smoke.

Velivet(TM): Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from oral contraceptive use.

This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in women over 35 years of age.

Women who use oral contraceptives should be strongly advised not to smoke.Desogen®: Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combination oral contraceptive (COC) use.

This risk increases with age, particularly in women over 35 years of age, and with the number of cigarettes smoked.

For this reason, COCs are contraindicated in women who are over 35 years of age, and smoke.

Serious side effects of Cyclessa

Along with its needed effects, desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol:

Incidence not known

  • absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods
  • anxiety
  • change in vision
  • changes in skin color
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • chills
  • clay-colored stools
  • constipation
  • cough
  • dark urine
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting
  • fever
  • hives or welts
  • itching skin or rash
  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
  • nausea
  • pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
  • pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg
  • pains in the chest, groin, or legs, especially in the calves of the legs
  • severe headaches of sudden onset
  • slow or fast heartbeat
  • stomach pain
  • sudden loss of coordination or slurred speech
  • sudden troubled breathing
  • sweating
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vomiting
  • vomiting of blood

Other side effects of Cyclessa

Some side effects of desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

  • bloating
  • blotchy spots on the exposed skin
  • breast enlargement or tenderness
  • feeling sad or empty
  • irritability
  • itching of the vagina or outside the genitals
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • pain during sexual intercourse
  • thick, white curd-like vaginal discharge without odor or with mild odor
  • trouble wearing contact lenses

For healthcare professionals

Applies to desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol: oral tablet.

Genitourinary

Diminution of lactation may theoretically occur when this drug is given immediately postpartum.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Psychiatric

Nervous system

Metabolic

Dermatologic

Cardiovascular

Ocular

Hypersensitivity

Other

Hepatic

Oncologic

Renal

Respiratory

Hematologic

Musculoskeletal

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Ortho-Cept (desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol)." Ortho McNeil Pharmaceutical

2. (2001) "Product Information. Cyclessa (desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol)." Organon

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

4. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

Further information

Cyclessa side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.