Brand: Kariva
Generic: Desogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol
Kariva is an oral contraceptive containing Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol which is used to prevent pregnancy. This drug is available as a 28-day pill pack.
Instructions:
You should read the product information leaflet before using this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication should be taken by mouth as instructed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the drug because it may diminish its effects. This medication should be taken with a full glass of water unless your doctor tells you otherwise. You should swallow the drug whole.
Your dosage is based on your medical condition and the way you will respond to treatment. Take this drug regularly to experience the most benefits. You should also take this drug at the same time each day.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to use it as prescribed by your doctor or as stated on the package label.
Interactions:
Kariva may interact with medications such as:
- Aromatase inhibitors such as:
- Anastrazole
- or Exemestane
- Raloxifene
- Sodium tetradecyl sulfate
- Tamoxifen
- Medication for underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Drugs that may increase blood levels of this drug such as:
- Acetaminophen
- Ascorbic acid/vitamin C
- Atorvastatin and
- Azole antifungals such as:
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- or Vaginal miconazole
- Griseofulvin
- Modafinil
- Rifamycins such as:
- Rifampin
- or Rifabutin
- St. John's wort
- Drugs used to treat seizures such as:
- Barbiturates
- Carbamazepine
- Felbamate
- Phenytoin
- Primidone
- or Topiramate
- HIV drugs such as:
- Nelfinavir
- Nevirapine
- or Ritonavir
- Acetaminophen
- Certain beta blockers such as:
- Clofibrate
- Cyclosporine
- Morphine
- Corticosteroids such as:
- Certain benzodiazepines such as:
- Lorazepam
- or Temazepam
- Theophylline
- Tizanidine
Side Effects:
There are no side effects known aside from a possible allergic reaction in people who have previous or unknown hypersensitivity to the drug.
Watch out for signs of allergic reactions such as:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling
Warnings:
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have the following:
- Allergy to Ethinyl estradiol or Desogestrel, or to any Other estrogen or Progestin
- History of stroke or other blood clots
- Severe high blood pressure
- Abnormal breast exam
- Cancer especially endometrial or breast cancer
- Diabetes with end-organ damage
- Severe headaches
- History of heart disease
- Heart valve disease
- Liver problems
- Current or suspected pregnancy
- Recent major surgery
- Long periods of sitting or lying down or immobility
- Blood clotting disorders
- History of yellowing eyes or skin during pregnancy or while using birth control pills
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Heavy tobacco use especially if age 35 or over
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol or triglyceride blood levels
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Edema
- Gallbladder problems
- Kidney disease
- Migraine
- Obesity
- Irregular, missed or very light periods
- Recent pregnancy
- Thyroid problems
- Pregnancy or lactation
