Aygestin

• Side effects caused by estrogen/progesterone combinations may include:
  Appetite changes, backache, blood pressure increase, bull's-eye rash, changes in appetite, changes in sex drive, dizziness, fatigue, hair growth or loss, headache, inflammation of the urinary tract, itching, nervousness, skin bruising, symptoms similar to premenstrual syndrome, red or tender skin nodules

Why should Aygestin not be prescribed?

Do not take Aygestin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it.

Do not take Aygestin if you are pregnant or have had an incomplete miscarriage. Avoid it if you have ever had a blood clotting disorder or a stroke. Do not take this drug if you have breast cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or severe liver disease.

Aygestin should not be used to test for pregnancy.

Special warnings about Aygestin

Remember that Aygestin can cause clot-related disorders. Check with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the warning signs listed in "Most important fact about this drug."

To rule out cancer and other problems before you start taking Aygestin, your doctor will give you a complete physical exam, including examination of your breasts and pelvic organs. You also should have a Pap test (cervical smear).

Aygestin may cause some degree of fluid retention. If you have a medical condition that could be made worse by fluid retention--such as epilepsy, migraine, asthma, or a heart or kidney problem--make sure your doctor knows about it.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you experience any irregular or unexplained vaginal bleeding while taking this medication.

Aygestin makes some women depressed. If you've suffered from serious depression in the past, alert your doctor if you think you're having a relapse. You will probably need to stop taking Aygestin.

The long-term effects of drugs such as Aygestin on the function of certain organs--including the pituitary, ovaries, adrenal glands, liver, and uterus--are unknown.

Aygestin may affect cholesterol and blood-sugar levels. If you have diabetes or high cholesterol, your doctor will want to watch you closely while you are taking this drug.