Cerazette

Cerazette is a progestogen-only pill (POP), otherwise known as the 'mini pill'. It provides immediate protection against pregnancy when taken on the first day of your period.

Cerazette is different from the standard combined pill as it has only one active ingredient, desogestrel (progestogen). In contrast, the combined pill contains both oestrogen and progestogen.

The mini pill is suitable for women over 35, and who smoke. It can also be used by those who cannot take oestrogens.

This medication is also available as a generic, going by the name of ‘desogestrel’. Generics are unbranded versions, with identical effects - the only difference is the price.

Please note, this medicine will not protect you against STIs - only a condom will do this.

Due to the way Cerazette influences your body’s production of eggs, it is considered an especially effective contraception.

Traditional mini-pills prevent pregnancy by stopping the womb lining from thickening and by increasing the thickness of cervical fluid. This means that sperm cannot enter the uterus.

However, as a desogestrel progestogen-only pill, Cerazette also prevents ovulation. This is possible due to the higher concentration of desogestrel - an artificial version of the hormone progesterone.

The combination of the above effects makes conception extremely unlikely - if taken correctly, it is more than 99% effective.

Please note, for the effects to last, you must take a dose of Cerazette every day.

Cerazette is only available in one dosage - 75mcg. As with all mini-pills, tablets should be taken orally and daily for the full 28 days of your cycle.

For full instructions, please consult the patient information leaflet:

• take one pill at the same time every day for 28 days; each blister pack has the days to keep track
• complete blister packs taking no breaks
• some women experience a bleed similar to that of a period, and some do not
• if you forget to take a pill at your usual time, it can be taken up to 12 hours late

If not taken on the first day of your period, use condoms for the following seven days. Take each pill around the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. Each pill can be swallowed with or without water and food. Store away from direct sunlight and below 25°C. Double-check the expiry date and patient leaflet.

What if I miss a pill?

As doses should be taken daily, it is unlikely that you will forget to take it one. However, if you do, how you act next depends on when your last dose was.

This contraceptive is a 12-hour mini pill, meaning you can take your forgotten pill up to 12 hours late with no reduction in efficacy.

Less than 12 hours late - take the dose as soon as you remember. Continue the pack as normal. You will still be protected and do not need to use additional protection.

More than 12 hours late - take the late dose as soon as you remember, and finish the pack as normal. You will not be protected to the same level, so use additional barrier contraception (condoms) for the following seven days, or refrain from having sex.

If you vomit or experience diarrhoea, treat this the same as a missed pill.

If you have had sex and have missed a pill by more than 12 hours, you should take emergency contraception as soon as possible. You should visit a pharmacy or doctor’s office for emergency contraception. It can also be ordered for future-use from HealthExpress.

Use our interactive tool below to decide what to do if you miss one or multiple pills in a month (menstrual cycle). Click to begin.

Cerazette is a prescription contraceptive treatment, so there is a slight risk of developing side effects. The most commonly reported reactions include:

• altered mood
• breast abnormalities
• decreased libido
• depressed mood
• headache
• menstrual cycle changes
• nausea
• skin reactions
• weight change

These side effects should subside as the body becomes accustomed to the mini pill. However, if they do happen to persist, you should contact a doctor to discuss your condition.

The exception to this is breast abnormalities - though rare, if they occur, report them to your doctor immediately.

When taking any hormonal treatment, you get regular check-ups from your doctor - this is so they can monitor your health and detect any issues.

Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication.

As a hormonal contraceptive, Cerazette is not suitable for all women. You should contact your doctor and ask about alternatives if any of the following apply to you:

• you are allergic to any of the ingredients
• you have a thrombosis
• you have acute porphyria
• you have breast cancer
• you have unexplained vaginal bleeding

What precautions should I take?

You should be careful when using this medication if:

• you have ever had breast cancer
• you have liver cancer or a liver condition
• you have diabetes
• you suffer from epilepsy
• you have tuberculosis
• you have high blood pressure

All of the above can increase the chance of serious side effects occurring.

You should also make sure to regularly inspect your breasts, paying attention to any abnormalities. If you discover any, seek immediate medical attention.

You should also know the symptoms of thrombosis, pain or cramping in the legs, red and dark skin around the painful region, and swollen or painful veins. If you detect any of these, or if you have difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Yes, you can buy Cerazette online from HealthExpress.

All hormonal contraception requires a review of your medical details by a doctor. We will ask you to complete a short medical consultation - this is for your safety so that our doctors’ can minimise the chance of complications occurring.

If approved, you will be issued with a prescription suitable for any pharmacy. Our pharmacy will automatically dispense your order unless specified otherwise.

Is it safe to buy Cerazette online?

Buying contraceptives online can save you a lot of time and energy; however, you want to ensure your health is never compromised.

Links to our certificates can be found at the bottom of this page.