YAZ, 20MCG+3MG, TABLETS-28

Common uses

This medication is a hormone-based contraceptive. Typically, it is used to prevent pregnancy. It may also be used for acne, as well as for other uses. Even though you may not feel its effects, this medication takes effect after a few days.

How to use this medication

To ensure effectiveness, this medication should be taken at the same time each day. It may be taken with or without food.

Birth control pills are dispensed in specific packaging. It is important to follow the sequence of tablets and take all the pills which are in the packaging. Always start a new pack at the set date.

If you forget a pill, take it as soon as you remember and then continue to take one pill every day as usual. If you are more than 24 hours late in taking your pill, contact your pharmacist.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Take it regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
• it could cause water retention and swelling;
• it may make your skin more sensitive to UV rays (e.g., sunlight, tanning lamps) - avoid exposure to UV rays as much as possible and protect yourself when out in the sun;
• it may cause your breasts to feel swollen and tender;
• it may affect your appetite.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Additional information

You are advised not to smoke when taking hormonal contraceptives. Smoking increases the risks of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The risks increase with age and with as few as 15 cigarettes a day. The increased risks are significant enough that after the age of 35, smokers should change their contraceptive method.

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.