Norethindrone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol(Oral Contraceptive)

Norethindrone acetate may be taken along with estradiol in order to help prevent pregnancy. This medication uses female hormones to protect women against unwanted pregnancy. The increase in hormone levels causes the body to think it is already pregnant and stop releasing eggs. The medication also causes other physical changes designed to prevent pregnancy.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication increases the risk that patients will have a heart attack or stroke, especially in women over the age of 35 and those who smoke. Heavy smokers–those who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day–have a higher risk of heart attack or stroke while on this medication than other women.

This medication does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. Women who are worried about STDs and their partners should use condoms or other forms of protection against STDs.