Pharmacy News

Friday 3 July 2009

Birth Control
Ovulite is an optical device which allows a woman to predict the ovulation phase of her cycle in order to know the days of the month during which she is most likely to conceive. It consists of a small cylindrical container about the size of a lipstick tube, a focalizable eyepiece and a small slide where the saliva sample is placed and illuminated with an LED (light emitting diode) when a button is pressed.
Ovulite personal ovulation microscope operates based upon the principle that saliva or cervical fluid forms a ferning pattern when dried which indicates the biochemical and hormonal changes (estrogen) taking place in the body during ovulation. These fern-like shapes (which appear like frost on a windowpane) are easily observable through the Ovulite ocular lens which is capable of a 40X magnification.

ORTHO TRI-CYCLEN
Ortho Tri-Cyclen, introduced in 1992, is the only oral contraceptive cleared in the U.S. for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in women 15 years of age or older who have no known contraindication to oral contraceptive therapy. Women who desire contraception, who have begun menstruation and who are unresponsive to topical anti-acne medications can benefit. It is also indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in women who elect to use oral contraceptives as a method of contraception.
There are a variety of health benefits associated with the use of oral contraceptives like Ortho Tri-Cyclen, including reduced cramping, increased menstrual regularity and lighter menstrual flow. In addition, the Pill may decrease the incidence of acute pelvic inflammatory disease -- a condition which, left untreated, can cause infertility. Iron-deficiency anemia and ectopic pregnancies may also occur less frequently among Pill users. The Pill does not, however, protect users against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.
Ethinyl estradiol is a form of estrogen and norelgestromin is a form of progesterone. These are both female hormones involved in conception. The ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin topical patch releases estrogen and progesterone that are absorbed directly through the skin.
HOW TO USE: Review the Patient Information Leaflet. Follow all instructions on how to use this medication patch and also the best time (during your menstrual cycle) to start using the patch. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Open the patch container and apply one patch to an area of clean, dry skin on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper body (torso) exactly as directed by your doctor. The patch is worn for 7 days. Do not apply the patch to the breast(s), the area around the breast(s); to red, cut, or irritated skin; or over other topical products (e.g., make-up, creams, lotions, powders). After 7 days, remove the old patch and apply a new patch. Repeat this weekly cycle for 3 weeks (3 patches equal 1 cycle). After your third patch is removed, you will have one week without using the patch. Your menstrual cycle (period) usually should start during the week when you do not use the patch. If your menstrual cycle (period) does not begin during this week, consult your doctor. After your 4th week, begin a new patch cycle, even if you still are experiencing some bleeding (still having your period). Do not go longer than 7 days without a patch. Doing so may make this medication less effective. If the medication patch accidentally comes off, is removed, or if it becomes detached, apply a new patch.