Ashlyna contains two hormones, ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, which prevent pregnancy through multiple coordinated actions. The medication suppresses ovulation so the ovaries do not release an egg during the cycle. It also thickens cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach an egg and alters the uterine lining to make implantation less likely. When taken consistently at the same time every day, Ashlyna is highly effective at preventing pregnancy.
Ashlyna follows an extended-cycle schedule of 84 days of active hormone tablets followed by 7 days of low-dose estrogen tablets instead of completely inactive tablets. This approach results in a menstrual period approximately once every three months and may reduce symptoms such as heavy bleeding, cramping, and hormone-related headaches for some patients. Breakthrough bleeding or spotting can occur, especially during the first few cycles, but often improves over time. Ashlyna does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and adherence is important for maintaining contraceptive effectiveness. Healthcare providers review medical history before prescribing, particularly in patients with a history of blood clots, certain cancers, uncontrolled high blood pressure, liver disease, or migraine with aura.
Common side effects of Ashlyna include nausea, breast tenderness, headache, bloating, mood changes, and irregular bleeding or spotting, especially during the first several months. Serious but uncommon risks include blood clots, stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, and liver problems. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience leg pain or swelling, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, severe headache, vision changes, or weakness on one side of the body. Smoking significantly increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events, particularly in patients over age 35.
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.