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Ortho Tri-Cyclen FAQ

Ortho Tri-Cyclen is a birth control pill manufactured by Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals. It's primary use it to prevent pregnancy, but it can also be used to regulate periods and treat menopause. Ortho Tri-Cyclen contains two hormones: estrogen and progestin. It works by increasing hormone levels in the body to prevent a woman from ovulating, and changing the mucus in the cervix to make it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant on the uterine wall.

  1. How and When to Take Ortho Tri-Cyclen

    • You should begin taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen on the first day of your period or the first Sunday after starting your period. Because it takes awhile for the pill to be effective at preventing pregnancy, it is important to use a secondary form of birth control for the first month you are using it. Ortho Tri-Cyclen is most effective when it is taken at the same time each day, so it's best to pick a time when you will be able to take it each day. If you forget to take a pill, take it as soon as you remember and then take the following day's dose at the regular time. It is OK to take two doses on the same day if you forgot to take one pill at the normal time.

    Warnings

    • Ortho Tri-Cyclen should not be used by women who smoke because it increases the risk of developing heart problems or suffering a heart attack or stroke. The risk is greatest in women older than 35 and those who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day. Certain medications, including some antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can diminish the effectiveness of Ortho Tri-Cyclen. If you are taking one of these medicines, you should use a second form of birth control for as long as you are taking the medication.

    Side Effects

    • Most women taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen will experience few if any side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting, unexplained changes in weight, and bleeding or spotting between periods. In rare cases, women taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen may experience severe or serious side effects that could indicate a potential complication requiring medical treatment. Stop taking the medicine and notify your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following: severe stomach pain, headaches or a sudden severe headache, chest pain, calf pain or swelling, vision changes, slurred speech, dizziness or fainting, difficulty breathing, missed period, persistent or abnormal vaginal bleeding, breast lumps, arm or leg numbness, weakness on one side of the body, jaundice, swelling of the feet or ankles, or difficulty wearing contact lenses.

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