Aranelle should be taken strictly as prescribed by a health care provider:
Taking the pill: Aranelle is usually taken once a day, at the same time each day. It’s necessary to take the pill at the same time each day to keep it effective.
Begin taking the pill: In the case that you just began taking Aranelle and for the first time, then your healthcare provider should have offered guidelines on when to take your first dose. Generally, you can be taken at the first day of starting it if you are yet to start with any previous forms of birth control.
Missed Dose If you forget to take a dose of Aranelle, then you need to take that dose right away. However, if two doses are forgotten, use the patient information guide, or you might talk with your healthcare provider, as such an action decreases the effects of Aranelle.
In case you forget to take a few pills or have some other problem, like vomiting or diarrhea, extra methods of contraception, such as condoms, are required until you have followed the instruction to take the pills for seven consecutive days correctly.
Aranelle works through a combination of hormonal mechanisms to prevent pregnancy:
Inhibits Ovulation: Aranelle blocks the release of eggs from the ovaries, or ovulation. In the absence of ovulation, there is no egg for sperm to fertilize, thus preventing pregnancy.
Thickens Cervical Mucus: The progestin in Aranelle thickens cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to travel through the cervix into the uterus and to the egg.
Changes Uterine Lining: Aranelle alters the uterine lining (endometrium) to be less receptive to a fertilized egg. Should sperm successfully fertilize an egg, the altered environment of the uterus would further decrease the chances of implantation.
The three mechanisms combined make Aranelle very effective at preventing pregnancy when used as prescribed.
Common side effects from taking Aranelle are :
Nausea and vomiting. Some women are known to feel nauseous during some periods especially the initiation process.
Headaches and dizziness. Most of these side effects may occur especially when hormonal balances shift their levels in women.
Breast tenderness: Estrogen and progestin can cause slight discomfort in the breasts.
Mood changes: Some women may experience mood swings or depression due to hormonal fluctuations.
Breakthrough bleeding: Spotting or light bleeding may occur between periods in some women, especially in the first few months of using this drug.
Serious side effects, though infrequent, include:
Blood clots: Symptoms may include swelling, pain, or redness in the legs, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Stroke or heart attack: Especially in women who are older than 35, smoke, or have risk factors for heart disease.
Severe abdominal pain or jaundice: Suggests a problem with the liver, and the drug should be discontinued immediately.
Smoking and Age: Smoking and being over the age of 35 place a woman in a special category to consider alternative modes of contraception as the potential for severe cardiovascular side effects is increased.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Aranelle is contraindicated for women who have had a history of blood clots, are not under control with medication for high blood pressure, and other cancers like breast.
Pregnancy: The drug is not indicated in pregnancy and must be stopped as soon as the pregnancy becomes known.
Some drugs may reduce the effectiveness of Aranelle. Examples include:
Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics, like rifampin, can diminish the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Anticonvulsants: Drugs to control seizures including phenytoin and carbamazepine, reduce Aranelle efficacy.
HIV drugs: Ritonavir and efavirenz are two examples of drugs that may influence how well the pill will work.
Tuberculosis drugs, other antifungal drugs and some herbal remedies such as St. John’s Wort have also been reported to inhibit the pill’s efficacy.
The usual dose of Aranelle is one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days. Then, for the next 7 days, there are 7 placebo pills to take. A new pack should be started immediately after completing a pack. Dosage should be adjusted by a healthcare provider for individual health needs or response.
Aranelle is a prescription-only medication, which means it must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation of your medical history, including any existing conditions and risk factors, will be necessary before starting Aranelle. Regular follow-up appointments may also be required to monitor for side effects and ensure the medication remains suitable.
1. What is Aranelle?
Answer: Aranelle is a combination oral contraceptive pill that contains two hormones, estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (norgestrel), used to prevent pregnancy.
2. How does Aranelle work?
Answer: Aranelle works primarily by preventing ovulation. It also thickens cervical mucus to block sperm and alters the uterine lining to prevent implantation.
3. What are the benefits of using Aranelle?
Answer: Benefits include effective pregnancy prevention, regular menstrual cycles, reduced menstrual pain, and lower risk of ovarian cysts.
4. How should I take Aranelle?
Answer: Take Aranelle once daily at the same time each day. If you miss a dose, follow the instructions provided in the package insert regarding missed pills.
5. What are common side effects of Aranelle?
Answer: Common side effects can include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood changes. Most side effects are mild and often resolve within a few months.
6. Are there any serious risks associated with Aranelle?
Answer: Serious risks include blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, particularly in smokers and women over 35. Discuss personal risk factors with a healthcare provider.
7. Can anyone take Aranelle?
Answer: While many women can safely take Aranelle, certain health conditions (like a history of blood clots or certain cancers) may contraindicate its use. Consult a healthcare provider to determine if it’s right for you.
8. Will Aranelle affect my menstrual cycle?
Answer: Aranelle often regulates menstrual cycles, leading to lighter and more predictable periods. Some users may experience missed periods, especially after prolonged use.
9. Can I use Aranelle if I’m breastfeeding?
Answer: Aranelle may not be recommended for breastfeeding mothers in the first few weeks postpartum due to possible effects on milk production. Consult with a healthcare provider for alternatives.
10. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Answer: If you miss a dose of Aranelle, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next pill at the regular time. Use backup contraception if needed.
11. Can Aranelle be used for purposes other than birth control?
Answer: Yes, Aranelle may be prescribed for conditions like acne or menstrual disorders due to its hormonal effects.
12. Is Aranelle effective immediately?
Answer: If taken correctly, Aranelle is effective in preventing pregnancy within 7 days. However, if you start taking it during your first five days of your menstrual cycle, it provides immediate protection.
13. Can I become pregnant while taking Aranelle?
Answer: While Aranelle is highly effective, no contraceptive method is 100% foolproof. Incorrect usage or missed doses can increase the risk of pregnancy.
14. Are there any drug interactions with Aranelle?
Answer: Yes, some medications can reduce the effectiveness of Aranelle, including certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and herbal supplements like St. John’s wort. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
15. What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Aranelle?
Answer: Discuss your medical history, any current medications, family history of blood clots or cardiovascular disease, and whether you smoke. This helps determine if Aranelle is safe for you.
16. Can I take Aranelle during my period?
Answer: Yes, you can start taking Aranelle at any time, including during your period. If you start during your period, it provides protection right away if started within the first five days.
17. What if I experience severe side effects?
Answer: If you experience severe side effects, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe headache, or vision changes, seek medical help immediately. These may indicate serious complications.
18. Can I stop taking Aranelle at any time?
Answer: Yes, you can stop taking Aranelle at any time, but if you are planning to conceive, it’s advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
19. Will Aranelle affect my weight?
Answer: Some users report weight gain while on hormonal contraceptives like Aranelle, but weight changes vary by individual. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about weight.
20. How long does it take for fertility to return after stopping Aranelle?
Answer: Fertility can return quickly after stopping Aranelle, often within one to three menstrual cycles, but this can vary by individual.