Microlite (Ethinylestradiol, Levonorgestrel)

Microlite, a combined oral contraceptive, is indicated for hormonal contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy.

• Pregnancy prevention: provides reliable contraception by inhibiting ovulation and preventing implantation.
• Menstrual cycle regulation: helps achieve more predictable bleeding patterns and reduces menstrual discomfort.
• Acne improvement: may lessen androgen‑related skin lesions in some women.

• Microlite contains ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel, which bind to estrogen and progesterone receptors respectively. The combination suppresses the mid‑cycle surge of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle‑stimulating hormone (FSH), thereby inhibiting ovulation. It also thickens cervical mucus and induces endometrial changes that reduce the likelihood of sperm penetration and implantation.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Headache: tension‑type or migraine‑like pain.
• Breast tenderness: temporary swelling or discomfort.
• Spotting: irregular breakthrough bleeding.
• Weight fluctuation: mild fluid retention.
• Mood changes: irritability or mild depression.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Thromboembolic events: deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
• Hypertensive crisis: sudden severe high blood pressure.
• Liver dysfunction: jaundice or abnormal liver enzymes.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Vision changes: sudden loss of vision or eye pain.
• Gallbladder disease: inflammation or stones.

Before using Microlite, consider the following precautions to ensure safe and effective use.

• Smoking status: avoid use if over 35 and a smoker due to increased cardiovascular risk.
• Cardiovascular history: assess for hypertension, stroke, or clotting disorders.
• Liver disease: use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.
• Migraine with aura: contraindicated because of stroke risk.
• Breast cancer history: avoid as hormones may stimulate tumor growth.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original packaging, protected from moisture and light.

Microlite can interact with several medicines that alter its effectiveness or increase adverse risks.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): may reduce contraceptive efficacy and alter clotting.
• Certain antiepileptics (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): increase hormone metabolism, lowering effectiveness.
• Rifampicin: induces hepatic enzymes, decreasing plasma levels of ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole): may increase hormone concentrations, raising side‑effect risk.
• St. John’s wort: can reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline): may slightly diminish hormone levels.