Desogestrel Medications

Desogestrel is a third-generation progestogen used in hormonal contraception. It prevents ovulation and alters endometrial lining to avoid pregnancy.

Mircette

Desogestrel / Ethinyl Estradiol

$1.14 per pill

0.15/0.02mg

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About Desogestrel

Desogestrel is a third-generation progestin used worldwide as a key component of combined oral contraceptives and as a progestin-only pill (POP). Belonging to the synthetic hormonal class that mimics natural progesterone, Desogestrel exerts its contraceptive effect by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering endometrial receptivity. Brand-name products such as Marvelon®, Femodene® and of course the generic Desogestrel 75 µg tablet are widely available, and the ingredient is listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. While primarily prescribed for birth control, clinicians sometimes employ Desogestrel off-label for menstrual regulation and certain androgen-related skin disorders. Understanding its pharmacology, approved uses, and safety profile helps adults in Singapore make informed decisions when they buy Desogestrel online through a reputable source.

What is Desogestrel?

Desogestrel is a synthetic progestogen classified as a third-generation oral contraceptive. The Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) approved the first Desogestrel-containing POP in 1999, following earlier approvals by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 199 and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 1995. It is marketed globally under several brand names, including Marvelon®, Femodene®, and Mercilon®, while generic tablets are widely distributed.

At the molecular level, Desogestrel is a prodrug that is rapidly converted in vivo to its active metabolite, etonogestrel. Etonogestrel binds with high affinity to the progesterone receptor (PR) in target tissues, producing a cascade that suppresses the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge necessary for ovulation. Because the compound has minimal androgenic activity, it is associated with fewer acne-worsening effects compared with earlier progestins. Availability in our online pharmacy includes both the 75 µg progestin-only tablets and combination products that pair Desogestrel with an estrogen such as ethinylestradiol.

How Desogestrel Works

Mechanism of Action

Desogestrel itself is pharmacologically inactive; after oral intake it is hydrolyzed to etonogestrel, which acts as a selective progesterone receptor agonist. Binding of etonogestrel to the PR in the hypothalamus and pituitary reduces gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulsatility, leading to a marked decline in LH and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The blunted LH surge prevents the formation of a dominant follicle, thereby inhibiting ovulation. In the cervical canal, the progestin promotes secretion of a viscous mucus that impedes sperm penetration, and in the endometrium it induces a secretory state that is hostile to implantation.

Therapeutic Effects

The suppression of ovulation accounts for the primary contraceptive efficacy, delivering a Pearl Index of less than 1 % when taken correctly. The cervical mucus thickening adds a secondary barrier, while the endometrial changes reduce the likelihood of a fertilized egg implanting. Because etonogestrel has negligible estrogenic or androgenic activity, users often experience more stable menstrual bleeding patterns and fewer estrogen-related side effects such as breast tenderness.

Onset and Duration

Clinical pharmacokinetic studies indicate that steady-state plasma concentrations of etonogestrel are achieved after 7 days of daily dosing. Accordingly, many guidelines advise using a backup barrier method for the first 48 hours after initiating therapy. The biological effect persists for the 24-hour dosing interval; missed tablets should be taken as soon as remembered, and if more than 24 hours pass, a backup method is recommended for the next 48 hours.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Regulatory agencies-including the HSA, FDA, and EMA-list Desogestrel as approved for:

Progestin-only oral contraceptive (POP) for women seeking estrogen-free birth control.
Component of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) for prevention of pregnancy.

These indications are supported by large-scale phase III trials that demonstrated comparable efficacy to older POPs such as norethisterone, with a lower incidence of acne and a more favorable lipid profile.

Off-Label Uses

Outside the formal label, Desogestrel is sometimes employed for:

Management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related menstrual irregularities.
Treatment of mild to moderate acne in women who cannot tolerate androgenic progestins.

These uses are not officially sanctioned by the HSA, and clinicians base decisions on peer-reviewed evidence from journals such as The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.

Clinical Efficacy

A pooled analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials published in The New England Journal of Medicine reported a typical-use pregnancy rate of .9 % for Desogestrel POPs, matching the performance of levonorgestrel POPs. In combination products, a meta-analysis in Contraception showed a 30 % reduction in breakthrough bleeding compared with second-generation COCs, attributing the benefit to Desogestrel’s weaker androgenic profile.

Buying Desogestrel from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Access to hormonal contraception can be challenging due to limited shelf-space in local pharmacies and the need for discreet procurement. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap, offering a secure, privacy-first ordering experience that complies with Singapore’s health regulations.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Through our platform you will find the well-known brands Marvelon®, Femodene® and the generic Desogestrel 75 µg tablet. Generic versions typically cost 30-45 % less than the branded packs while meeting the same quality standards mandated by the WHO.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that source all shipments from manufacturers inspected under stringent GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) guidelines. Each batch is verified by an independent laboratory for potency and purity before it leaves the distribution center.

Pricing & Access

Our service offers competitive pricing tiers, and a Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders helps maintain affordability for long-term users. Shipping is processed within 24 hours of order confirmation, and you can track the parcel through a secure portal.

Discreet Delivery

Express delivery arrives in approximately 7 days, while standard shipping takes up to 3 weeks. All packages are sealed in unmarked, tamper-evident envelopes to protect your privacy.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Desogestrel is marketed as:

75 µg progestin-only tablets (single-ingredient POP).
150 µg combined tablets paired with 30 µg ethinylestradiol (e.g., Marvelon®).

Both forms are supplied in blister packs of 28 or 84 tablets, depending on the manufacturer.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For contraception, adults typically start with one 75 µg Desogestrel tablet taken at the same time each day. In combination regimens, the dose is fixed at one tablet containing 150 µg Desogestrel and 30 µg ethinylestradiol. Dose adjustments-if ever required-are made by a clinician based on individual risk factors such as body mass index, smoking status, or concomitant medications.

Administration Guidelines

The tablet should be swallowed whole with water. Food does not significantly affect absorption, so timing with meals is flexible. If a dose is missed and it has been less than 24 hours, take it immediately; if more than 24 hours have passed, skip the missed tablet and continue the regular schedule, using a barrier method for the next two days. A healthcare provider must determine the exact regimen, especially when switching between POP and COC formulations.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Clinical trials report the following adverse events in >10 % of users:

Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting.
Headache (often tension-type).
Breast tenderness.
Nausea, frequently mild and transient.

These effects usually diminish after the first three cycles as the body adapts.

Serious Adverse Events

Although rare, the following warrant immediate medical attention:

Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (incidence <1 per 10 000 user-years).
Severe allergic reaction characterized by rash, swelling, or respiratory difficulty.
Persistent, heavy vaginal bleeding lasting more than a week.

Contraindications

Desogestrel should not be used by individuals with:

Known or suspected pregnancy.
Active, untreated breast cancer.
Uncontrolled hypertension (≥160/100 mm Hg).
History of thromboembolic disorders.

Drug Interactions

Major interaction categories include:

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase plasma etonogestrel levels, potentially heightening side effects.
Enzyme inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine) can lower efficacy, increasing pregnancy risk.
Other hormonal agents (e.g., certain menopausal hormone therapies) may compound thrombotic risk.

Patients should inform their clinician of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Special Populations

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Desogestrel is contraindicated during pregnancy. Limited data suggest negligible transfer into breast milk; however, lactating women should discuss alternatives with their provider.
Older Adults: Age-related reductions in hepatic metabolism may modestly raise etonogestrel concentrations; monitoring is advisable for women over 45 who continue POP use.
Renal/Hepatic Impairment: Mild to moderate impairment does not require dose alteration, but severe hepatic disease may necessitate avoidance due to altered metabolism.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Desogestrel differ from levonorgestrel POPs? Desogestrel has a weaker androgenic effect, which translates into less acne and potentially more stable bleeding patterns compared with levonorgestrel.
How long does Desogestrel take to work for contraception? Etonogestrel reaches steady-state levels within 7 days; therefore, a backup barrier method is recommended for the first 48 hours after starting therapy.
Can I take Desogestrel with my birth control pill? Adding a POP to an existing combined oral contraceptive is unnecessary and may increase side-effect risk; consult a clinician before making any changes.
What should I do if I experience breakthrough bleeding? Minor spotting is common during the first three cycles. If bleeding is heavy, prolonged, or accompanied by pain, seek medical evaluation to rule out underlying pathology.
Are there foods I should avoid while taking Desogestrel? No specific dietary restrictions are required. Grapefruit juice can inhibit CYP3A4 and modestly raise etonogestrel levels, so it is prudent to limit excessive consumption.
Is Desogestrel safe for smokers over 35? Smoking combined with hormonal contraception increases thrombotic risk. For women over 35 who smoke, clinicians often recommend non-estrogenic options or alternative contraceptive methods.
Can Desogestrel help with my acne? Because Desogestrel exhibits minimal androgenic activity, it may improve acne in some users, but it is not formally approved for dermatological treatment.
What are the signs of a serious blood clot while on Desogestrel? Sudden leg swelling, calf pain, shortness of breath, or chest pain are red-flag symptoms that require emergency care.
How should I store Desogestrel tablets? Keep the medication in its original packaging at room temperature, away from excess heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing Desogestrel?
- Complete medical history, including any history of blood clots or hormonal cancers.
- List of current prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications.
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking status and body mass index.
- Specific concerns about side effects, menstrual patterns, or future pregnancy plans.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Desogestrel is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing Desogestrel for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing Desogestrel.