Sprintec (Ortho-Cyclen)

Sprintec is a combination progestin and an estrogen, which means the two hormones work together to prevent pregnancy. On this pill, your body will reduce the number of annual ovulations or stop them entirely. The pill will also thin out your uterine wall, leading to lighter periods. Finally, your cervical mucus will thicken, preventing most sperm from reaching the egg to fertilize it.

Sprintec is most effective when taken every day at the same time each day. Patients taking Sprintec are encouraged to keep the pills in a cool, dry place where they won't get damaged.

Sprintec is currently available in most pharmacies in the United States; however, you need a written prescription by your doctor to receive the medication. This pill is common and fairly affordable, with most health insurance plans covering the cost entirely. If you don't have health insurance or your health insurance doesn't cover Sprintec, we may be able to provide it to you at an affordable cost.

Always tell your doctor about any medication that you are taking or any allergies you have before starting Sprintec. This can prevent life-threatening allergies reactions or severe side effects that could be triggered by a combination of multiple medications. Birth control pills can sometimes cancel out other medications, which is why you want to be clear about your conditions when talking with your doctor.

Like all medications, you may experience a few common side effects when taking Sprintec. These are normally mild but can become severe. You may experience bloating, swelling of the feet or ankles, breast tenderness, moodiness, nausea, or weight change.

There are some signs that you want to look out for when taking Sprintec that could be serious. Seek medical help right away if you experience unexpected heavy bleeding, severe stomach pain, severe headaches, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, dizziness, difficulty breathing or depression.

Sprintec is often used to treat severe acne, and you may notice that your acne symptoms diminish while you are on the pill. However, not all women will have clearer skin while taking Sprintec, and it should not be your exclusive acne treatment. You should tell your dermatologist that you are taking it.

Birth control affects all women differently, and you may notice some weight gain as a result of taking Sprintec. Most women, however, only gain about 10 pounds while on the medication. Talk to your doctor if your weight gain is more significant, as they may recommend a birth control alternative.

Sprintec is less effective if you experience nausea or diarrhea shortly after taking it. If you experience gastrointestinal distress, use backup birth control until your stomach issues subside. If your nausea persists or is caused by Sprintec, talk to your doctor about switching birth control.

Sprintec is not meant for terminating a pregnancy and should not be used by women who are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking Sprintec, stop taking the pill and consult your doctor immediately.