Nextstellis

Nextstellis is a combined oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones: drospirenone (a progestin) and estetrol (a newer form of estrogen derived from plant sources). This combination works by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining to prevent fertilization and implantation. Nextstellis may be less effective if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It is not known if Nextstellis is safe and effective in females with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher. If you are moderately obese, discuss with your healthcare provider whether Nextstellis is appropriate for you.

Benefits

• Provides effective and reliable birth control when taken daily as prescribed.
• Contains estetrol, a naturally derived estrogen with a potentially lower risk of side effects compared to traditional synthetic estrogens.
• May help reduce menstrual cramps, regulate periods, and lessen acne in some users.
• Associated with a lower impact on liver proteins and certain clotting factors than older contraceptives.
• Offers a well-tolerated alternative for women sensitive to conventional hormones.

Dosage

• Take one tablet by mouth daily, at the same time each day.
• Each pack contains 24 active pills (with hormones) and 4 inactive pills (placebo) to maintain a regular cycle.
• Begin a new pack immediately after finishing the last one — no break is needed between packs.
• If a pill is missed, follow the instructions on the pack or speak with a healthcare provider.

Warnings and Precautions

• Thromboembolic Disorders and Other Vascular Problems: Stop Nextstellis if a thrombotic or thromboembolic event occurs. Start no earlier than 4 weeks after delivery. Consider all cardiovascular risk factors before initiating in any female, particularly in the presence of multiple risk factors.
• Hyperkalemia: Check serum potassium concentration during the first Nextstellis treatment cycle in females on long-term treatment with medications that may increase serum potassium concentration.
• Hypertension: Monitor blood pressure periodically and stop use if blood pressure rises significantly.
• Migraine: Discontinue if new, recurrent, persistent, or severe migraines occur.
• Hormonally-Sensitive Malignancy: Discontinue Nextstellis if a hormonally-sensitive malignancy is diagnosed.
• Liver Disease: Withhold or permanently discontinue for persistent or significant elevation of liver enzymes.
• Glucose Tolerance and Hypertriglyceridemia: Monitor glucose in females with prediabetes or diabetes. Consider an alternate contraceptive method for females with hypertriglyceridemia.
• Gallbladder Disease and Cholestasis: Consider discontinuing Nextstellis in females with symptomatic gallbladder or cholestatic disease.
• Bleeding Irregularities and Amenorrhea: May cause irregular bleeding or amenorrhea. Evaluate for other causes if symptoms persist.

Usage Instructions

• Take one tablet daily, without skipping days — consistency is key for effectiveness.
• Use a backup contraceptive method (like condoms) if pills are missed or during the first 7 days when starting the first pack.
• If vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs shortly after taking a pill, it may be less effective — consult your doctor.
• Keep track of your menstrual cycle and report any unusual bleeding or missed periods.

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F).
• Keep in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Always store out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Common Side Effects

• Mild to moderate effects: headache, breast tenderness, mood changes, nausea, irregular bleeding or spotting, and mild weight changes.
• Serious (seek medical attention): signs of a blood clot (leg pain, chest pain, shortness of breath), vision changes, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), or severe abdominal pain.