Myrtilla (Desogestrel)

Desogestrel is a progestogen used in hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy.

• Prevention of pregnancy: provides reliable birth control for women of reproductive age.
• Cycle regulation: may help achieve more predictable menstrual cycles when used continuously.
• Family planning: supports long‑term contraception as part of a planned reproductive health regimen.

• Desogestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby inhibiting ovulation. It also induces changes in cervical mucus, making it thicker and less permeable to sperm, and alters the endometrial lining to reduce the likelihood of implantation.

Desogestrel may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset that usually resolves with continued use.
• Headache: occasional tension‑type headaches.
• Breast tenderness: temporary discomfort in the breast tissue.
• Irregular bleeding: spotting or changes in menstrual flow.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Deep vein thrombosis: blood clot formation in deep veins.
• Pulmonary embolism: clot migration to the lungs, a medical emergency.
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): rare but requires immediate attention.
• Liver dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme elevations.

Before prescribing Myrtilla, clinicians should evaluate patient history and potential risk factors.

• Medical history: assess for prior thromboembolic events or clotting disorders.
• Smoking: avoid use in women over 35 who smoke due to increased clot risk.
• Concomitant drugs: review medications that may affect clotting or hormone metabolism.
• Pregnancy: discontinue if pregnancy is confirmed; the product is not indicated for use during pregnancy.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and light.

Desogestrel can interact with several drug classes, influencing efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Combined estrogen‑containing products: increased risk of thrombosis.
• Antifungal azoles (e.g., ketoconazole): may raise desogestrel plasma levels.
• Protease inhibitor antiretrovirals: potential for reduced contraceptive effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine): may lower hormone concentrations.
• Rifampicin: can decrease contraceptive efficacy.
• St. John’s wort: may reduce plasma levels of desogestrel.