Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol
Kit
• Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are contraindicated in women over 35 years old who smoke. ( 4 )
• Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combination oral contraceptives (COC) use. ( 4 )
Uses
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are combinations of norgestimate, a progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen, indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. ( 1.1 ) Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are indicated for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in females at least 15 years of age, who have no known contraindications to oral contraceptive therapy and have achieved menarche. Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg should be used for the treatment of acne only if the patient desires an oral contraceptive for birth control. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Oral Contraceptive Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg and Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )]. 1.2 Acne Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are indicated for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in females at least 15 years of age, who have no known contraindications to oral contraceptive therapy and have achieved menarche. Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg should be used for the treatment of acne only if the patient desires an oral contraceptive for birth control [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )].
Dosage and administration
• Take one tablet daily by mouth at the same time every day. ( 2.1 )
• Take tablets in the order directed on the blister pack. ( 2.1 )
• Do not skip or delay tablet intake. ( 2.1 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosage and Administration Take one tablet by mouth at the same time each day with or without food. Table 1 provides the recommended dosage and administration instructions for norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg and Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg. Table 1: Instructions for Administration of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg Starting COCs in women not currently using hormonal contraception (Day 1 Start or Sunday Start) Important: Consider the possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of this product. Tablet Color:
• Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg active tablets are blue (Day 1 to Day 21).
• Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg active tablets are white to off-white (Day 1 to Day 7), light blue (Day 8 to Day 14) and blue (Day 15 to Day 21).
• Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, and Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg both have light green inactive tablets (Day 22 to Day 28). Day 1 Start:
• Take first active tablet without regard to meals on the first day of menses.
• Take subsequent active tablets once daily at the same time each day for a total of 21 days.
• Take one light green inactive tablet daily for 7 days and at the same time of day that active tablets were taken.
• Begin each subsequent pack on the same day of the week as the first cycle pack (i.e., on the day after taking the last inactive tablet) Sunday Start:
• Take first active tablet without regard to meals on the first Sunday after the onset of menses. Due to the potential risk of becoming pregnant, use additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) for the first seven days of the patient’s first cycle pack of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg.
• Take subsequent active tablets once daily at the same time each day for a total of 21 days.
• Take one lightgreen inactive tablet daily for the following 7 days and at the same time of day that active tablets were taken.
• Begin each subsequent pack on the same day of the week as the first cycle pack (i.e., on the Sunday after taking the last inactive tablet) and additional non-hormonal contraceptive is not needed. Switching to Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg from another oral contraceptive Start on the same day that a new pack of the previous oral contraceptive would have started. Switching from another contraceptive method to Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg Start Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg:
• Transdermal patch
• On the day when next application would have been scheduled
• Vaginal ring
• On the day when next insertion would have been scheduled
• Injection
• On the day when next injection would have been scheduled
• Intrauterine contraceptive
• On the day of removal
• If the IUD is not removed on first day of the patient’s menstrual cycle, additional non-hormonal contraceptive (such as condoms and spermicide) is needed for the first seven days of the first cycle pack.
• Implant
• On the day of removal Complete instructions to facilitate patient counseling on proper tablet usage are located in the FDA-Approved Patient Labeling. Starting Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg after Abortion or Miscarriage First-trimester
• After a first-trimester abortion or miscarriage, Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg may be started immediately. An additional method of contraception is not needed if Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are started immediately.
• If Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are not started within 5 days after termination of the pregnancy, the patient should use additional non-hormonal contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) for the first seven days of her first cycle pack of Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg. Second-trimester
• Do not start until 4 weeks after a second-trimester abortion or miscarriage, due to the increased risk of thromboembolic disease. Start Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, or Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, following the instructions in Table 1 for Day 1 or Sunday start, as desired.
Dosage forms and strengths
Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are available in blister packs containing 28 tablets, in the following order:
• 21 blue, round, flat faced beveled edged, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A7’ on one side and plain on the other. Each blue tablet contains 0.25 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 light green, round, flat faced beveled edged, uncoated tablets debossed with ‘A2’on one side and plain on the other. Each light green tablet contains inert ingredients. Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are available in blister cards. Each blister card contains 28 tablets in the following order:
• 7 white to off-white, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A9’ on one side and plain on the other. Each white to off-white tablet contains 0.18 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 light blue, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A8’ on one side and plain on the other. Each light blue tablet contains 0.215 mg norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 blue, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A7’ on one side, and plain on the other. Each blue tablet contains 0.25 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 light green, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A2’ on one side and plain on the other. Each light green tablet contains inert ingredients. Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, consist of 28 round, flat faced beveled edged, uncoated tablets in the following order ( 3 ):
• 21 blue tablets each containing 0.25 mg norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol, USP
• 7 light green tablets (inert) Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, consist of 28 round, flat faced beveled edged, uncoated tablets in the following order ( 3 ):
• 7 white to off-white tablets each containing 0.18 mg norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol, USP
• 7 light blue tablets each containing 0.215 mg norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol, USP
• 7 blue tablets each containing 0.25 mg norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol, USP
• 7 light green tablets (inert)
Contraindications
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are contraindicated in females who are known to have or develop the following conditions:
• A high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases. Examples include women who are known to: o Smoke, if over age 35 [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] o Have deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, now or in the past [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] o Have inherited or acquired hyper coagulopathies [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] o Have cerebrovascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] o Have coronary artery disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] o Have thrombogenic valvular or thrombogenic rhythm diseases of the heart (for example, subacute bacterial endocarditis with valvular disease, or atrial fibrillation) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] o Have uncontrolled hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] o Have diabetes mellitus with vascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] o Have headaches with focal neurological symptoms or migraine headaches with aura [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] ▪ Women over age 35 with any migraine headaches [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )]
• Liver tumors, benign or malignant, or liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]
• Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )]
• Current diagnosis of, or history of, breast cancer, which may be hormone-sensitive [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )]
• Use of Hepatitis C drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, due to the potential for ALT elevations [see Warnings and Precautions( 5.3 )]
• A high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases ( 4 )
• Liver tumors or liver disease ( 4 )
• Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding ( 4 )
• Breast cancer ( 4 )
• Co-administration with Hepatitis C drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
• Thromboembolic Disorders and Other Vascular Problems: Stop norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if a thrombotic event occurs. Stop at least 4 weeks before and through 2 weeks after major surgery. Start no earlier than 4 weeks after delivery, in women who are not breastfeeding. ( 5.1 )
• Liver disease: Discontinue norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if jaundice occurs. ( 5.2 )
• High blood pressure: If used in women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure and stop norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if blood pressure rises significantly. ( 5.4 )
• Carbohydrate and lipid metabolic effects: Monitor prediabetic and diabetic women taking norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets. Consider an alternate contraceptive method for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia. ( 5.6 )
• Headache: Evaluate significant change in headaches and discontinue norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if indicated. ( 5.7 )
• Bleeding Irregularities and Amenorrhea: Evaluate irregular bleeding or amenorrhea. ( 5.8 ) 5.1 Thromboembolic Disorders and Other Vascular Problems
• Stop norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if an arterial thrombotic event or venous thromboembolic (VTE) event occurs.
• Stop norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if there is unexplained loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, papilledema, or retinal vascular lesions. Evaluate for retinal vein thrombosis immediately [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
• If feasible, stop norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets at least 4 weeks before and through 2 weeks after major surgery or other surgeries known to have an elevated risk of VTE as well as during and following prolonged immobilization.
• Start norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets no earlier than 4 weeks after delivery, in women who are not breastfeeding. The risk of postpartum VTE decreases after the third postpartum week, whereas the risk of ovulation increases after the third postpartum week.
• The use of COCs increases the risk of VTE. However, pregnancy increases the risk of VTE as much or more than the use of COCs. The risk of VTE in women using COCs is 3 to 9 cases per 10,000 woman-years. The risk of VTE is highest during the first year of use of COCs and when restarting hormonal contraception after a break of 4 weeks or longer. The risk of thromboembolic disease due to COCs gradually disappears after use is discontinued.
• Use of COCs also increases the risk of arterial thromboses such as strokes and myocardial infarctions, especially in women with other risk factors for these events. COCs have been shown to increase both the relative and attributable risks of cerebrovascular events (thrombotic and hemorrhagic strokes). This risk increases with age, particularly in women over 35 years of age who smoke.
• Use COCs with caution in women with cardiovascular disease risk factors. 5.2 Liver Disease Impaired Liver Function Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are contraindicated in women with liver disease, such as acute viral hepatitis or severe (decompensated) cirrhosis of liver [see Contraindications ( 4 )]. Acute or chronic disturbances of liver function may necessitate the discontinuation of COC use until markers of liver function return to normal and COC causation has been excluded. Discontinue norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if jaundice develops. Liver Tumors Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are contraindicated in women with benign and malignant liver tumors [see Contraindications ( 4 )]. Hepatic adenomas are associated with COC use. An estimate of the attributable risk is 3.3 cases/100,000 COC users. Rupture of hepatic adenomas may cause death through intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Studies have shown an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in long-term (>8 years) COC users. However, the risk of liver cancers in COC users is less than one case per million users. 5.3 Risk of Liver Enzyme Elevations with Concomitant Hepatitis C Treatment During clinical trials with the Hepatitis C combination drug regimen that contains ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, ALT elevations greater than 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), including some cases greater than 20 times the ULN, were significantly more frequent in women using ethinyl estradiol-containing medications, such as COCs. Discontinue norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets prior to starting therapy with the combination drug regimen ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir [see Contraindications ( 4 )]. Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets can be restarted approximately 2 weeks following completion of treatment with the Hepatitis C combination drug regimen. 5.4 High Blood Pressure Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are contraindicated in women with uncontrolled hypertension or hypertension with vascular disease [see Contraindications ( 4 )]. For women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure and stop norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets if blood pressure rises significantly. An increase in blood pressure has been reported in women taking COCs, and this increase is more likely in older women with extended duration of use. The incidence of hypertension increases with increasing concentrations of progestin. 5.5 Gallbladder Disease Studies suggest a small increased relative risk of developing gallbladder disease among COC users. Use of COCs may worsen existing gallbladder disease. A past history of COC-related cholestasis predicts an increased risk with subsequent COC use. Women with a history of pregnancy-related cholestasis may be at an increased risk for COC related cholestasis. 5.6 Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolic Effects Carefully monitor prediabetic and diabetic women who take norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets. COCs may decrease glucose tolerance. Consider alternative contraception for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia.
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions with the use of COCs are discussed elsewhere in labeling:
• Serious cardiovascular events and stroke [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]
• Vascular events [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]
• Liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] The most common adverse reactions reported during clinical trials (≥2%) were: Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg: headache/migraine, abdominal/gastrointestinal pain, vaginal infection, genital discharge, breast issues (including breast pain, discharge, and enlargement), mood disorders (including depression and mood altered), flatulence, nervousness, rash. ( 6.1 ) Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg: headache/migraine, breast issues (including breast pain, enlargement, and discharge), vaginal infection, abdominal/gastrointestinal pain, mood disorders (including mood alteration and depression), genital discharge, changes in weight (including weight increased or decreased). ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA at 1 (888) 721-7115 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg The safety of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, was evaluated in 1,647 healthy women of child-bearing potential who participated in 3 clinical trials and received at least 1 dose of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, for contraception. Two trials were randomized active-controlled trials and 1 was an uncontrolled open-label trial. In all 3 trials, subjects were followed for up to 24 cycles. Common Adverse Reactions (≥ 2% of subjects): The most common adverse reactions reported by at least 2% of the 1,647 women were the following in order of decreasing incidence: headache/migraine (32.9%), abdominal/gastrointestinal pain (7.8%), vaginal infection (8.4%), genital discharge (6.8%), breast issues (including breast pain, discharge, and enlargement) (6.3%), mood disorders (including depression and mood altered) (5.0%), flatulence (3.2%), nervousness (2.9%), and rash (2.6%). Adverse Reactions Leading to Study Discontinuation: Over the three trials, between 11 to 21% of subjects discontinued the trial due to an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions (≥1%) leading to discontinuation were: metrorrhagia (6.9%), nausea/vomiting (5.0%), headache (4.1%), mood disorders (including depression and mood altered) (2.4%), premenstrual syndrome (1.7%), hypertension (1.4%), breast pain (1.4%), nervousness (1.3%), amenorrhea (1.1%), dysmenorrhea (1.1%), weight increased (1.1%), and flatulence (1.1%). Serious Adverse Reactions: breast cancer (1 subject), mood disorders including depression, irritability, and mood swings (1 subject), myocardial infarction (1 subject), and venous thromboembolic events including pulmonary embolism (1 subject) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (1 subject). Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg The safety of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, was evaluated in 4,826 healthy women of child-bearing potential who participated in 6 clinical trials and received at least 1 dose of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, for contraception. Two trials were randomized active-controlled trials and 4 were uncontrolled open-label trials. In 3 trials, subjects were followed for up to 24 cycles; in 2 trials, subjects were followed for up to 12 cycles; and in 1 trial, subjects were followed for up to 6 cycles. Common Adverse Reactions (≥ 2% of subjects): The most common adverse reactions reported by at least 2% of the 4,826 women were the following in order of decreasing incidence: headache/migraine (33.6%), breast issues (including breast pain, enlargement, and discharge) (8.0%), vaginal infection (7.1%), abdominal/gastrointestinal pain (5.6%), mood disorders (including mood alteration and depression) (3.8%), genital discharge (3.2%), and changes in weight (including weight fluctuation, increased or decreased) (2.5%). Adverse Reactions Leading to Study Discontinuation: Over the trials, between 9 to 27% of subjects discontinued the trial due to an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions (≥1%) leading to discontinuation were: metrorrhagia (4.3%), nausea/vomiting (2.8%), headache/migraine (2.4%), mood disorders (including depression and mood altered) (1.1%), and weight increased (1.1%). Serious Adverse Reactions: breast cancer (1 subject), carcinoma of the cervix in situ (1 subject), hypertension (1 subject), and migraine (2 subjects). 6.2 Postmarketing Experience Five studies that compared breast cancer risk between ever-users (current or past use) of COCs and never-users of COCs reported no association between ever use of COCs and breast cancer risk, with effect estimates ranging from 0.90 to 1.12 (Figure 1). Three studies compared breast cancer risk between current or recent COC users (<6 months since last use) and never users of COCs (Figure 1). One of these studies reported no association between breast cancer risk and COC use. The other two studies found an increased relative risk of 1.19 to 1.33 with current or recent use. Both of these studies found an increased risk of breast cancer with current use of longer duration, with relative risks ranging from 1.03 with less than one year of COC use to approximately 1.4 with more than 8 to 10 years of COC use.
Drug interactions
Consult the labeling of concurrently used drugs to obtain further information about interactions with hormonal contraceptives or the potential for enzyme alterations. No drug-drug interaction studies were conducted with norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets. Drugs or herbal products that induce certain enzymes including CYP3A4, may decrease the effectiveness of COCs or increase breakthrough bleeding. Counsel patients to use a back-up or alternative method of contraception when enzyme inducers are used with COCs. ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Effects of Other Drugs on Combined Oral Contraceptives Substances decreasing the plasma concentrations of COCs Drugs or herbal products that induce certain enzymes, including cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), may decrease the plasma concentrations of COCs and potentially diminish the effectiveness of COCs or increase breakthrough bleeding. Some drugs or herbal products that may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives include phenytoin, barbiturates, carbamazepine, bosentan, felbamate, griseofulvin, oxcarbazepine, rifampicin, topiramate, rifabutin, rufinamide, aprepitant, and products containing St. John’s wort. Interactions between hormonal contraceptives and other drugs may lead to breakthrough bleeding and/or contraceptive failure. Counsel women to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method when enzyme inducers are used with COCs, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing the enzyme inducer to ensure contraceptive reliability. Colesevelam: Colesevelam, a bile acid sequestrant, given together with a COC, has been shown to significantly decrease the AUC of EE. The drug interaction between the contraceptive and colesevelam was decreased when the two drug products were given 4 hours apart. Substances increasing the plasma concentrations of COCs: Co-administration of atorvastatin or rosuvastatin and certain COCs containing ethinyl estradiol (EE) increase AUC values for EE by approximately 20 to 25%. Ascorbic acid and acetaminophen may increase plasma EE concentrations, possibly by inhibition of conjugation. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, grapefruit juice, or ketoconazole may increase plasma hormone concentrations. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/Hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitors, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and HIV/AIDS medications containing strong inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A Significant changes (increase or decrease) in the plasma concentrations of estrogen and/or progestin have been noted in some cases of co-administration with HIV protease inhibitors (decrease [e.g., nelfinavir, ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, (fos)amprenavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and tipranavir/ritonavir] or increase [e.g., indinavir and atazanavir/ritonavir])/HCV protease inhibitors (decrease [e.g., boceprevir and telaprevir]) or with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (decrease [e.g., nevirapine] or increase [e.g., etravirine]) or with HIV/AIDS medications containing strong inhibitors (e.g., cobicistat and ritonavir) or inducers of CYP3A. 7.2 Effects of Combined Oral Contraceptives on Other Drugs
• COCs containing EE may inhibit the metabolism of other compounds (e.g., cyclosporine, prednisolone, theophylline, tizanidine, and voriconazole) and increase their plasma concentrations.
• COCs have been shown to decrease plasma concentrations of acetaminophen, clofibric acid, morphine, salicylic acid, temazepam and lamotrigine. Significant decrease in plasma concentration of lamotrigine has been shown, likely due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation. This may reduce seizure control; therefore, dosage adjustments of lamotrigine may be necessary. Women on thyroid hormone replacement therapy may need increased doses of thyroid hormone because the serum concentration of thyroid-binding globulin increases with use of COCs. 7.3 Interference with Laboratory Tests The use of contraceptive steroids may influence the results of certain laboratory tests, such as coagulation factors, lipids, glucose tolerance, and binding proteins. 7.4 Concomitant Use with HCV Combination Therapy – Liver Enzyme Elevation Do not co-administer norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets with HCV drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, due to potential for ALT elevations [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )].
Use in specific populations
Lactating women: Not recommended; can decrease milk production. (8.2) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There is no use for contraception in pregnancy, therefore, norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be discontinued during pregnancy. Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb reduction defects) following exposure to CHCs before conception or during early pregnancy. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4 percent and 15 to 20 percent, respectively. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Contraceptive hormones and/or metabolites are present in human milk. CHCs can reduce milk production in breastfeeding females. This reduction can occur at any time but is less likely to occur once breastfeeding is well-established. When possible, advise the nursing female to use other forms of contraception until she discontinues breastfeeding. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and efficacy of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets have been established in women of reproductive age. Efficacy is expected to be the same for post-pubertal adolescents under the age of 18 and for users 18 years and older. Use of this product before menarche is not indicated. There was no significant difference between norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, and placebo in mean change in total lumbar spine (L1-L4) and total hip bone mineral density between baseline and Cycle 13 in 123 adolescent females with anorexia nervosa in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, one-year treatment duration clinical trial for the Intent To Treat (ITT) population. 8.5 Geriatric Use Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets have not been studied in postmenopausal women and are not indicated in this population. 8.6 Hepatic Impairment The pharmacokinetics of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets have not been studied in subjects with hepatic impairment. However, steroid hormones may be poorly metabolized in patients with hepatic impairment. Acute or chronic disturbances of liver function may necessitate the discontinuation of COC use until markers of liver function return to normal and COC causation has been excluded [See Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. 8.7 Renal Impairment The pharmacokinetics of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets have not been studied in women with renal impairment.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There is no use for contraception in pregnancy, therefore, norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets should be discontinued during pregnancy. Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb reduction defects) following exposure to CHCs before conception or during early pregnancy. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4 percent and 15 to 20 percent, respectively.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and efficacy of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets have been established in women of reproductive age. Efficacy is expected to be the same for post-pubertal adolescents under the age of 18 and for users 18 years and older. Use of this product before menarche is not indicated. There was no significant difference between norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets, 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg, and placebo in mean change in total lumbar spine (L1-L4) and total hip bone mineral density between baseline and Cycle 13 in 123 adolescent females with anorexia nervosa in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, one-year treatment duration clinical trial for the Intent To Treat (ITT) population.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets have not been studied in postmenopausal women and are not indicated in this population.
Overdosage
There have been no reports of serious ill effects from overdosage of oral contraceptives, including ingestion by children. Overdosage may cause withdrawal bleeding in females and nausea.
Description
Each of the following products is a combination oral contraceptive containing the progestational compound norgestimate, USP and the estrogenic compound ethinyl estradiol, USP. Norgestimate, USP is designated as (18,19-Dinor-17-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one,17-(acetyloxy)-13-ethyl-,oxime,(17α)-(+)-) and ethinyl estradiol, USP is designated as (19-nor-17α-pregna,1,3,5(10)-trien-20-yne-3,17-diol). Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
• Each blue tablet contains 0.25 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP. Inactive ingredients include lactose monohydrate, povidone, FD&C Blue No. 2, colloidal silicon dioxide, talc, magnesium stearate, and pregelatinized starch.
• Each light green tablet contains only inert ingredients, as follows: D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Blue No. 2, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch and talc. Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg
• Each white to off-white tablet contains 0.18 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP. Inactive ingredients include lactose monohydrate, povidone, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, talc and pregelatinized starch.
• Each light blue tablet contains 0.215 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP. Inactive ingredients include FD & C Blue No. 2, lactose monohydrate, povidone, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, talc and pregelatinized starch.
• Each blue tablet contains 0.25 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP. Inactive ingredients include FD & C Blue No. 2, lactose monohydrate, povidone, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, talc and pregelatinized starch.
• Each light green tablet contains only inert ingredients, as follows: D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Blue No. 2, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch and talc. chemstructures
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action
• Oral Contraception COCs lower the risk of becoming pregnant primarily by suppressing ovulation.
• Acne Acne is a skin condition with a multifactorial etiology, including androgen stimulation of sebum production. While the combination of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate increases sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and decreases free testosterone, the relationship between these changes and a decrease in the severity of facial acne in otherwise healthy women with this skin condition has not been established.
How supplied
16.1 How Supplied Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are available in blister packs containing 28 tablets, as follows:
• 21 blue, round, flat faced beveled edged, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A7’ on one side and plain on the other. Each blue tablet contains 0.25 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 light green, round, flat faced beveled edged, uncoated tablets debossed with ‘A2’on one side and plain on the other. Each light green tablet contains inert ingredients. NDC 68462-309-29 1 carton containing 3 blister cards of 28 tablets Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are available in blister packs containing 28 tablets, as follows:
• 7 white to off-white, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A9’ on one side and plain on the other. Each white to off-white tablet contains 0.18 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 light blue, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A8’ on one side and plain on the other. Each light blue tablet contains 0.215 mg norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 blue, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A7’ on one side, and plain on the other. Each blue tablet contains 0.25 mg of norgestimate, USP and 0.035 mg of ethinyl estradiol, USP.
• 7 light green, round, flat faced beveled edge, uncoated tablets, debossed with ‘A2’ on one side and plain on the other. Each light green tablet contains inert ingredients. NDC 68462-565-29 1 carton containing 3 blister cards of 28 tablets 16.2 Storage Conditions
• Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
• Protect from light.
• Keep out of the reach of children.
Patient information
See FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information and Instructions for Use). Counsel patients about the following information:
• Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from COC use, and that women who are over 35 years old and smoke should not use COCs [see Boxed Warning].
• Increased risk of VTE compared to non-users of COCs is greatest after initially starting a COC or restarting (following a 4-week or greater pill-free interval) the same or a different COC [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )].
• Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets do not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections.
• Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are not to be used during pregnancy; if pregnancy occurs during use of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets instruct the patient to stop further use [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )].
• Take one tablet daily by mouth at the same time every day. Instruct patients what to do in the event tablets are missed [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.2 )].
• Use a back-up or alternative method of contraception when enzyme inducers are used with norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )].
• COCs may reduce breast milk production; this is less likely to occur if breastfeeding is well established [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.2 )].
• Women who start COCs postpartum, and who have not yet had a period, should use an additional method of contraception until they have taken an active tablet for 7 consecutive days [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 )].
• Amenorrhea may occur. Consider pregnancy in the event of amenorrhea at the time of the first missed period. Rule out pregnancy in the event of amenorrhea in two or more consecutive cycles [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )]. Distributed by: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA Elmwood Park, NJ 07407 Questions? 1 (888) 721-7115 www.glenmarkpharma-us.com April 2025 logo1
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA (revised Feb 6, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol NDC products (14)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50090-2259 | Kit | A-S Medication Solutions | ANDA |
| 50090-2603 | Kit | A-S Medication Solutions | ANDA |
| 42291-553 | Kit | AvKARE | ANDA |
| 42291-565 | Kit | AvKARE | ANDA |
| 42291-590 | Kit | AvKARE | ANDA |
| 68462-309 | Kit | Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA | ANDA |
| 68462-565 | Kit | Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA | ANDA |
| 68180-838 | Kit | Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | ANDA |
| 68180-840 | Kit | Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | ANDA |
| 79929-008 | Kit | Naari Pte Limited | ANDA |
| 79929-009 | Kit | Naari Pte Limited | ANDA |
| 72789-434 | Kit | PD-Rx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | ANDA |
| 72789-435 | Kit | PD-Rx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | ANDA |
| 71205-191 | Kit | Proficient Rx LP | ANDA |
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol recalls
- D-0007-2026 Oct 15, 2025 · Class II · Ongoing
Failed Content Uniformity Specifications
Frequently asked questions
What is Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol used for?
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets are combinations of norgestimate, a progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen, indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. ( 1.1 ) Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol tablets 0.18 mg/0.035 mg, 0.215 mg/0.035 mg, 0.25 mg/0.035 mg are indicated for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in females at least 15 years of…
What are the side effects of Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol?
The following serious adverse reactions with the use of COCs are discussed elsewhere in labeling: • Serious cardiovascular events and stroke [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Vascular events [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] The most common adverse reactions reported during clinical trials (≥2%) were:… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol?
Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol is listed by 7 labelers in the FDA NDC directory, including A-S Medication Solutions, AvKARE, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA, Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc..
Has Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol been recalled?
The FDA enforcement database lists 1 recall for Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol, most recently D-0007-2026 (class ii): Failed Content Uniformity Specifications