Loestrin vs Loestrin Fe

Birth control pills are one of mankind’s answers and inventions towards the growing numbers of population and towards controlling the unnecessary and unplanned pregnancies on this planet.

The birth control pill was studied as early as the 1930’s, and from then on its properties and effects on ovulation made doctors conduct clinical trials on women. In the 1950’s it was approved by the FDA in the U.S. market.

Two of the common birth control pills are Loestrin and Loestrin Fe. Let us assess and determine their differences.

Loestrin and Loestrin Fe are two different drugs. Loestrin is a generic drug while Loestrin Fe is a brand name of a contraceptive drug. It’s generic name is Ethinyl Estradiol and Norenthindrone. Loestrin is the same with the following drugs manufactured under a different generic name Junel manufactured by Barr Pharmaceuticals and Microgestin manufactured by Watson Pharmaceuticals. Loestrin Fe is available in other brand names: Estrostep Fe, Femcon Fe, Loestrin Fe 1/20, Microgestin 1/20, Ovcon 35 and Tri-Norinyl.

Loestrin and Loestrin Fe are manufactured by Duramed Pharmaceuticals.

Both drugs contain the combination of two different hormones, namely, estrogen and progestin. Both drugs act by halting the ovulation of the egg cells. This stops the egg cells from undergoing maturation.

Loestrin contains 21 tablets with active hormones. There is an additional seven tablets with no hormone ingredients. Loestrin Fe also has 21 tablets with active hormones; however, the additional 7 tablets contain Fe or iron. This is where Loestrin Fe got its name.

These two types of pills are taken once a day and continously. The dosage is the same for all women irregardless of age, weight, etc. Both drugs have the same side effects such as acne, weight gain, and headaches. However, in Loestrin Fe, since it contains iron, the stool will be normally darker. It is advised to take this drug with Vitamin C to have better absorption of iron.

Contraceptive pills should not be taken by women who cannot control their smoking habits and who have hypertension as this may contribute to strokes and heart attacks. These pills make someone at risk for developing blood clots.

Summary:

1.Loestrin and Loestrin Fe are contraceptive pills.
2.Both are manufactured by Duramed Pharmaceuticals.
3.Loestrin is a generic drug while Loestrin Fe is a brand name of drug.
4.Loestrin contains 21 pills plus 7 pills without hormones and Loestrin Fe contains 21 pills plus 7 pills with iron.
5.Both have the same side effects except Loestrin Fe which contributes to darker stools which is normal.

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