Crisanta

Uses
Crisanta (Ethinylestradiol IP/Drospirenone) is a combined hormonal contraceptive pill which can prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation. Women affected by PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) or acne who wish to take an oral contraceptive (in addition to treating their condition) may be told by their doctor that this product is a suitable option, as it can relieve PMDD symptoms and treat acne.

This medicine is made up of 2 ingredients, one of which (Ethinylestradiol) is a bioactive oestrogen. The other one (drospirenone) is a synthetic progesterone which has antiandrogenic and progestogenic activity. When used for contraception, its mechanism of action involves preventing the full development of an egg every month. As a result of this, sperm are unable to fertilize the egg and pregnancy can thereby be prevented. Although it does not work 100 per cent of the time, clinical trials have shown it to be highly effective in the prevention of pregnancy.

Dosage and Administration
Crisanta (Ethinylestradiol IP/Drospirenone) comes in a 21 tablet calendar pack with the days marked on it so that you can keep track of when to take each one. You will need to see your doctor before beginning treatment, so that specific instructions can be given to you. Adult females are normally directed to take one tablet per day (it is best if the time of administration is consistent) for a period of 21 days, followed by a 7 day pill free period after which the dosage cycle is repeated. Doctors normally advise administering the tablet after dinner or before going to bed. If any doses are missed, its effectiveness may be reduced. Ask your doctor what to do should this occur.

Side effects
Oral administration of Crisanta (Ethinylestradiol IP/Drospirenone) could cause women to experience side effects, such as:

• Nausea
• A lowered libido
• Spotting or vaginal bleeding
• Itchiness affecting the vagina
• Tender feeling affecting the breasts

You are advised to make the doctor treating you aware of any side effects which occur during the course of treatment, even if they are mild. Certain reactions are significantly serious and could pose a threat to your health. See your doctor straight away if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, lumps appearing on the breast, visual disturbances, problems balancing, feelings of weakness or any other serious side effects that have not been mentioned here.

Precautions
Smoking cigarettes while taking oral hormonal contraceptives increases the risk of cardiovascular events, especially in women who are older than 35 years of age.

Diarrhoea which is severe in nature (especially that which persists for longer than 24 hours) could reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. Discuss this with your doctor.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Crisanta (Ethinylestradiol IP/Drospirenone) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.