USES
To use Aviane effectively:
Start the Pack: Begin taking Aviane on the first day of your menstrual cycle, or as advised by your healthcare provider. The pill is taken once daily at the same time each day for 28 days. You’ll take the 21 active pills with hormones first, followed by the 7 inactive (placebo) pills.
Taking the pill: The Pill needs to be taken daily, once. Try to take the same pill at the same time each day. That is important to try to keep the pill in good working order.
Missed Pills: This is always an easy one-one forgotten pill can be taken immediately when remembered, followed by return to the routine schedule
Dormant Pills: By the time you have your 7th inactive pill in the pack, you will generally have the menstrual period, or withdrawal bleeding. You can start a new pack the next day, even though bleeding has not stopped.
WORKING
The main way in which Aviane functions to prevent pregnancy is through the combined actions of estrogen and progestin:
Inhibition of Ovulation: Probably the most important way Aviane prevents pregnancy is by inhibiting ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary). The hormones in Aviane suppress the pituitary gland’s release of the hormones that induce ovulation.
Thicken the cervical mucus: The progestin component of Aviane thickens the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to swim through to the egg.
Thin the uterine lining: Progestin causes the uterine lining to become thin, thereby making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant and grow.
SIDE EFFECTS
Though Aviane is relatively harmless, some women may suffer from side effects. General side effects include:
Nausea: Some women might feel a bit nauseous especially in the first few weeks of taking the pill.
Breast Tenderness: Changes in the hormonal balance can make breasts become tender or swollen.
Headaches: Some women may experience headaches or migraine that usually appears in the first few months.
Mood Changes: Hormonal contraceptives like Aviane can cause mood changes, and some women experience depression or anxiety.
Spotting or Breakthrough Bleeding: This is a common occurrence in the first few months of use but usually resolves with continued use.
Less frequent but more serious side effects can be:
Liver Issues: In rare cases, Aviane can cause liver problems, such as jaundice or elevated liver enzymes.
High Blood Pressure: Some women may experience elevated blood pressure while taking Aviane.
WARNINGS
Before taking Aviane, you should report to your physician any past medical history issues that may be important to know, especially if you have:
- A history of blood clots or stroke
- Heart disease or high blood pressure
- A history of liver disease
- Breast cancer or other estrogen-dependent neoplasms
- Migraine headache with aura
- Smoking history greater than 35 years
SMOKING IS A HIGHER RISK FOR LIFE-THREATENING VASCULAR EVENTS, INCLUDING THROMBOTIC/EMBOLIC STROKE AND MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION, WHEN TAKING ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES. Women over 35 who smoke should not take Aviane or any other oral combination contraceptives.
But for any unexplained vaginal bleeding; severe headache with aura; change in vision; sudden, severe abdominal pain; inform your doctor right away.
INTERACTIONS
Antibiotics (e.g., Rifampin): Certain antibiotics like rifampin can reduce the effectiveness of Aviane by increasing the metabolism of ethinyl estradiol, potentially leading to contraceptive failure. Backup contraception is recommended.
Anticonvulsants (e.g., Phenytoin, Carbamazepine): These medications may lower the effectiveness of Aviane by inducing liver enzymes that metabolize hormonal contraceptives more quickly. Alternative or additional contraceptive methods should be used.
St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement may reduce the effectiveness of Aviane by inducing liver enzymes, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy.
Antifungals (e.g., Ketoconazole): Ketoconazole may increase the concentration of Aviane’s active ingredients, raising the risk of side effects like nausea or blood clots. Monitoring is recommended.
DOSAGE
Aviane is administered in a package of 28 pills, with the active pills consisting of 21 and the placebo pills 7. Each of the active pills contains ethinylestradiol (estrogen) 0.03mg and levonorgestrel (progestin) 0.15mg. The recommended dosage regimen is:
Take one pill per day at approximately the same time every day
Start taking the next pack the following day after completing one pack even if you are still bleeding.
If you miss a pill or more, consult the instructions accompanying your prescription or your health care provider for guidance on whether you require backup contraception.
PRESCRIPTION
Aviane is a prescription drug; to get a prescription for it, you need to have a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor will discuss your health history, risk factors, and your desire for contraception before he/she prescribes Aviane.
Women should regularly check up with their doctors while on birth control pills to assess any effects and may need to have the prescription filled every few months.
FAQ's
What is Aviane?
- Aviane is an oral contraceptive pill that contains a combination of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, used to prevent pregnancy.
How does Aviane work?
- Aviane works by preventing ovulation, altering the uterine lining to prevent fertilization, and thickening cervical mucus to inhibit sperm movement.
Is Aviane effective for birth control?
- When taken correctly, Aviane is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Usage and Administration
How is Aviane taken?
- Aviane is taken orally, usually one pill daily at the same time for 28 days.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Aviane?
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed pill and take the next one at the regular time.
Can Aviane be taken at any time of the month?
- It’s typically recommended to start Aviane at the beginning of your menstrual cycle; however, consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions.
Side Effects and Risks
What are the common side effects of Aviane?
- Common side effects include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual flow.
Are there any serious risks associated with Aviane?
- Serious risks can include blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially in women with certain risk factors.
Who should not take Aviane?
- Women with a history of blood clots, certain cancers, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or those who smoke and are over 35 should avoid it.
Interaction and Precautions
What medications can interact with Aviane?
- Certain medications such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and herbal supplements like St. John’s wort can affect the efficacy of Aviane.
Can I take Aviane if I’m breastfeeding?
- It is generally advised to avoid combination hormonal contraceptives like Aviane while breastfeeding; consult a healthcare provider for alternatives.
Effectiveness and Monitoring
How long does it take for Aviane to become effective?
- If taken as directed, Aviane can be effective within 7 days; however, it’s recommended to use backup contraception during this time.
Will Aviane protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
- No, Aviane does not protect against STIs; additional protection, such as condoms, should be used.
Lifestyle Considerations
Can I use Aviane while traveling?
- Yes, Aviane is suitable for travel; however, ensure to keep it on schedule due to time zone changes.
Is there a need for regular doctor visits while on Aviane?
- Regular check-ups are recommended to monitor for side effects and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Cost and Availability
Is Aviane available over-the-counter?
- No, Aviane is only available by prescription from a healthcare provider.
What is the cost of Aviane?
- The cost of Aviane can vary depending on insurance coverage, but it generally ranges from $25 to $50 per month.
Alternatives
- What are some alternatives to Aviane?
- Alternatives include other oral contraceptives, hormonal implants, patches, injections, or non-hormonal methods like condoms.
Miscellaneous
Can Aviane cause weight gain?
- Some users report weight changes, but studies show that the effect is generally minimal and varies by individual.
Where can I find more information about Aviane?
- More information can be found on the manufacturer’s website, through healthcare providers, or reputable medical sources like the CDC or FDA.