7.3.1 Combined hormonal contraceptives

General Guidance
 

• Oral contraceptives containing an oestrogen and a progestogen are the most effective preparations for general use.
• The oestrogen content varies considerably, generally the preparation with the lowest dose of oestrogen and progestogen which gives good cycle control whilst minimising adverse effects.
• There is an increased risk of thromboembolism in users of oral contraceptives, but this risk remains much lower than that associated with pregnancy. In all the risk of VT increases with age and the presence of other risk factors (e.g. obesity).
• First generation products should be considered first line.

Recommended drugs

Cilique 250/ 35 microgram tablets

Levest 150/30 microgram coated tablets

Rigevidon coated tablets

Yacella 0.03 mg/3 mg tablets

Lucette 0.03 mg/ 3 mg film-coated tablets

Drug Traffic Light Key:

Green – On Formulary

Amber – Restricted use, see local guidelines      

Purple – Specialist use/initiation

Red – Non Formulary

Relative Costs Key (where indicated):

£££££ - high

£££ - moderate

£ - low