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Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill: uses, side effects & brands
The combined pill (oestrogen + progestogen) prevents pregnancy and can regulate periods. It belongs to the Hormonal & contraceptive medicine group. These provide contraception or hormone treatment for menopause and related conditions.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Hormonal & contraceptive medicine |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Prevents pregnancy
- Regulates periods
- Reduces heavy or painful periods
- Can improve acne
Common brand names
- India: Mala-N, Yasmin, Krimson
- Worldwide: Yaz, Microgynon
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Spotting between periods
Before taking it — precautions
- Not for smokers over age thirty-five, or those with migraine with aura, blood clots or some heart problems
- Some medicines reduce effectiveness, including rifampicin and some epilepsy medicines
- Tell your doctor about high blood pressure, liver disease or breastfeeding
When to see a doctor urgently
- Leg pain or swelling (urgent)
- Chest pain or breathlessness (urgent)
- Sudden severe headache or vision changes (urgent)
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of combined oral contraceptive pill depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Does it protect against STIs?
No. Use condoms for STI protection.
What if I miss a pill?
Follow the pill leaflet or ask your doctor; extra protection may be needed.
Can it cause blood clots?
Yes, though uncommon; risk is higher in smokers and some other people.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.