Chewable birth control pill approved

Go to: See the next story in this category | Go to previous story | Send to a friend!

The US Food and Drug Administration in November 2003 approved Ovcon 35, an oral, spearmint-flavored contraceptive tablet that can be chewed and swallowed.

This new version of Ovcon 35, indicated for the prevention of pregnancy, provides one more alternative to the many types of oral contraceptives currently on the market. Ovcon 35 contains a progestin (norethindrone) and an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) found in products that are already marketed.

The directions for use tell women that the pill may be swallowed whole or chewed and swallowed. If the pill is chewed and then swallowed, the woman should drink a full glass (8 ounces) of liquid immediately afterwards so that the full dose of medication reaches the stomach and no residue is left in the mouth.

Ovcon 35 is available only in a 28-day regimen. Each package contains 21 round, white tablets, with norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol followed by seven reminder green (inactive) tablets to complete a 4-week-cycle.

Send this page to a friend!

More baby features at Pregnancy & Baby

Come visit our message boards

Editor's pick: The No-Cry Sleep Solution

About this information: This information was provided by the US Food and Drug Administration.