Generic name:ethinyl estradiol, norethindrone and ferrous fumarate tablets
Drug classes:Contraceptives, Sex hormone combinations
What is Loestrin 24 Fe?
Loestrin 24 Fe (ethinyl estradiol, norethindrone and ferrous fumarate) is a combination medicine that contains 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.
Loestrin 24 Fe is used as contraception to prevent pregnancy.
Loestrin 24 Fe may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Loestrin 24 Fe if you are pregnant or if you have recently had a baby. You should not take Loestrin 24 Fe 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, a blood clot, or if you will be having major surgery.
You may need to use back up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using Loestrin 24 Fe or if you miss a dose. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Missing a pill increases your risk of becoming pregnant. Carefully follow the "missed dose" instructions if you forget to take your Loestrin 24 Fe tablets.
Some drugs can make Loestrin 24 Fe less effective in preventing pregnancy, including antibiotics, hepatitis C medications, HIV/AIDS medications, seizure medications, or barbiturate sedatives. Tell your doctor about all other medications you use.
