Generic name:ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel [ ETH-in-ill-ess-tra-DYE-ol-and-LEE-vo-nor-JESS-trel ]
Brand names: Alesse, Altavera, Amethyst, Aviane, Enpresse,
... show all 18 brands
Drug class:Contraceptives
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 30, 2021.
The Alesse brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
What is Alesse?
Alesse contains a combination of female hormones that prevent ovulation (the release of female hormones that prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). This medication also causes changes in your cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
Alesse is used as contraception to prevent pregnancy.
Alesse may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Alesse if you are pregnant or if you have recently had a baby. You should not take Alesse if you have any of the following conditions: uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, a blood-clotting disorder, circulation problems, diabetic problems with your eyes or kidneys, unusual vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, severe migraine headaches, if you smoke and are over 35, or if you have ever had breast or uterine cancer, jaundice caused by birth control pills, a heart attack, a stroke, or a blood clot.
You may need to use back up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using Alesse or if you miss a dose. Follo
