Ashlyna is an oral contraceptive pill that follows a regimen of 84 days of active pills and 7 days of non-active pills. The following are Ashlyna’s usage guidelines:

• Step 1: Take 84 Active Pills: For the first 84 days of the treatment cycle, one active pill is taken each day. These active pills consist of ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and levonorgestrel (a progestin).
• Step 2: Follow the Placebo Week: Once the 84 active pills are finished, you will undergo a week of taking inactive, 7-day placebo pills that do not have any active hormones in them. It is likely that you will have withdrawal bleeding during this period (similar to having a menstrual cycle).
• Step 3: Start a New Pack: After finishing the placebo week, a new pack of Ashlyna should be taken and the cycle of 84 active pills and 7 placebo pills should be repeated.

If you forget a dose or take a pill too late, caution should be exercised and certain directions that come with the prescription must be followed.

Like other hormonal contraceptives, Ashlyna imitates the natural menstrual cycle of women with the exception of allowing menstrual flow and facilitating ovulation. It incorporates two synthetic constituents that creates an anti-conception effect in the following ways;

• Prevents Ovulation: Ashelyna hormones do not allow the ovaries to release eggs. Therefore, if there is no ovulation, there will be no egg and the sperm cannot meet an egg hence no pregnancy.
• Thickens Cervical Mucus: The progestin component of Ashlyna, which is Levonorgestrel, serves to thickens the cervical mucus therefore sperms have a hard time moving through the cervix to meet the eggs if any.
• Restricts Uterine Lining: The two hormones are responsible for making the uterine walls thinner; therefore, if a fertilized egg was to come to the uterus, it is unlikely it would stick to the wall.

The case is different when Ashlyna is used in extended cycles, in that the number of withdrawal menses is reduced

. Some of the more common side effects as well as a few of the more severe ones include: 

• Common Side Effects:

 o Nause

 o Tenderness of the breast 

o Headaches

 o Light menstrual bleeding\

 or bleeding in between the periods especially for the first few months of usage o Increase in body weight 

• Severe side effects (FKA when these side effects appear): 

o Heart attack and strokes: cardiovascular risk factors may be present in many young women who smoke, are over 35 years old or who have previous vascular disease.

 o Encephalopathy: any liver dysfunction including the development of jaundice should be reported to a medical practitioner.

There are a number of precautions and warnings that must be considered before an individual begins Ashlyna therapy:.

• Histrory of Clots or any Heart Condition Female dopers do not use Ashlyna, since they have already had an episode of deep vein thrombosis – DVT, pulmonary embolism – PE, stroke, doi because this could aggravate clotting
• Liver disease: Women with any cases of liver should seek the advice of their doctors on their eligibility for starting the use of Ashlyna, as the drug may worsen any liver complications.

 •Pregnancy: The use of Ashlyna is not recommended during pregnancy. If pregnancy is expected, who are taking Ashlyna should discontinue its use and report to a doctor.

Antibiotics: e.g., Rifampin, Tetracyclines – Some antibiotics such as rifampin used to treat tuberculosis, may decrease Ashlyna efficacy by enhancing the metabolism of the hormones and causing a greater incidence of breakthrough bleeding or pregnancy. A secondary contraceptive method should be used with an antibiotic.

Anticonvulsants (for example, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine): Medications like phenytoin and carbamazepine induce the activity of the enzymes in the liver that metabolize Ashlyna’s hormones thereby reducing the hormones and subsequently diminishing the efficacy of contraception. This medication must have alternative or supplementing other form of contraceptives used.

Antifungal Agents (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole): The azole antifungals for example, ketoconazole interfere with the liver enzymes which degrade Ashlyna thereby elevating hormone concentrations and predisposing the women to adverse effects as nausea and tenderness of breasts.

HIV Drugs such as Ritonavir and Efavirenz: The protease inhibitor Ritonavir increases Ashlyna’s hormones and increases the risk of side effects, which include blood clots. In contrast, the drug efavirenz could lower its effectiveness since it enhances the metabolism of the contraceptive.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking any other medication in combination with Ashlyna.

The recommended Ashlyna dosage is one pill per day, preferably around the same time. The pack is composed of 84 active pills and 7 inactive or placebo pills. 

•Missed Pills: If you forget to take one active pill, take it the moment you remember even if this means you will take two active pills in one day. In case two or more active pills are forgotten, follow the directions that accompany your prescription

Ashlyna is available only with a prescription.

 Healthcare professionals will review the patient’s medical history, particularly any predispositions to cardiovascular troubles, thromboembolic complications, hepatic conditions, or breast cancer, before recommending Ashlyna.

 The physician will also review your other medicines to check if they may conflict with Ashlyna’s use.

1. What is Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

   • Ashlyna is a type of oral contraceptive designed for extended use, allowing for fewer menstrual periods per year.

2. How does Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) work?

   • It contains hormones that prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy.

3. What are the active ingredients in Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

   • The active ingredients typically include ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone.

4. What is the dosing schedule for Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

   • Users typically take one pill daily for 84 consecutive days, followed by a week of inactive pills.

5. How is Ashlyna different from traditional birth control pills?

   • Unlike traditional pills taken for 21 days with 7 days off, Ashlyna allows for a longer cycle, resulting in fewer periods.

6. What are the benefits of using Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

   • Benefits include fewer menstrual cycles, reduced menstrual cramps, and potential relief from symptoms of endometriosis or PMS.

7. Are there any side effects associated with Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

   • Possible side effects include nausea, headaches, mood changes, and breast tenderness.

8. Who should consider using Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

   • It may be suitable for individuals looking for a long-term birth control solution and those who wish to manage their menstrual symptoms.

9. Can Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) be used for acne treatment?

   • Yes, some users find that hormonal birth control can help treat acne due to its anti-androgen effects.

10. What precautions should be taken while using Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

    • Women who smoke, have a history of blood clots, or certain health conditions should consult their doctor before use.

11. What should I do if I miss a dose of Ashlyna?

    • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule.

12. What happens during the inactive pill week in Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

    • During the inactive week, withdrawal bleeding typically occurs, similar to a menstrual period.

13. Can I use Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) while breastfeeding?

    • Breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider as hormonal contraceptives may affect milk supply.

14. Is Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) effective for preventing pregnancy?

    • When taken correctly, Ashlyna is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

15. How soon after starting Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) am I protected against pregnancy?

    • If you start taking it during the first five days of your menstrual cycle, you will be protected immediately. If started at another time, use a backup method for the first 7 days.

16. Can Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) affect my mood?

    • Some users may experience mood swings or other emotional changes; it’s important to monitor your mental health while using hormonal contraceptives.

17. What should I do if I experience severe side effects on Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

    • Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have severe headaches, chest pain, vision changes, or signs of a stroke or blood clot.

18. Is it safe to take Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) for an extended period?

    • Many women use extended-cycle birth control safely for several years, but regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are advised.

19. How does Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle) compare to other extended-cycle contraceptives?

    • Ashlyna’s unique hormone combination might offer different benefits or side effects compared to other brands, and individual responses can vary.

20. Where can I obtain Ashlyna (Extended-Cycle)?

    • It is available by prescription from a healthcare provider, and can be obtained at most pharmacies.