Norelgestromin-Eth Estradiol TD

If this is the first time you are using this medication, apply the patch on the first Sunday following the beginning of your menstrual period or on the first day of your period. If your period begins on a Sunday, begin on that day. For the first cycle of use only, use an additional form of non-hormonal birth control (e.g., condom or spermicide) for the first 7 days to prevent pregnancy until the medication has enough time to work. If you start the first patch on the first day of your period, you do not need to use back-up birth control the first week. Change the patch once weekly on the same day. Remember to remove the old patch before placing a new patch.

After wearing patches continuously for 3 weeks, do not apply a patch during week 4. You should have your period during this time. If you do not get your period, consult your doctor. After not wearing a patch for a week, apply a new patch whether or not you have your period. Do not go longer than 7 days without a patch, or you will increase your risk of becoming pregnant. It may be helpful to mark a calendar to remind you when to change the patch and which week to leave it off.

If the patch comes off at the wrong time, replace with a new patch within 24 hours. If the patch is not replaced quickly, or if you are not sure how long it has been off, you could become pregnant. Start a new cycle by applying a new patch on the day you remember, and use an additional form of non-hormonal birth control (e.g., condom or spermicide) for 7 days to prevent pregnancy. Continue to apply patches for a total of 3 weeks.

After removing each patch, fold it in half so it sticks to itself, and discard in the trash away from children and pets. Do not flush the patch down the toilet.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about switching from other forms of birth control to the patch. If any of this information is unclear, consult the Patient Information Leaflet or your doctor or pharmacist.

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Dosage and Storage