CombiPatch

How should you take CombiPatch?

Apply the patch to a smooth, clean, dry area of the skin on your lower abdomen. Do not apply it on or near your breasts, at your waistline, or to oily, damaged, or irritated areas.

Rotate sites; the same area should not be used again for at least one week. Wear only one patch at a time.

Do not expose the patch to the sun for prolonged periods of time. If it falls off during bathing or other activities, reapply it to a different part of the lower abdomen. If necessary, use a new patch.

Remove the patch carefully to avoid skin irritation. If any adhesive remains, wait 15 minutes then gently rub the area with a cream or lotion to remove the residue.

--If you miss a dose...

If you forget to apply a new patch when you are supposed to, do it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time to change patches anyway, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not apply more than one patch at a time unless directed by your doctor.

--Storage instructions...

Store the sealed foil patches at room temperature, away from extreme heat and cold, for up to 3 months.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking CombiPatch.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, back pain, breast pain, flu symptoms, menstrual problems, nausea, nervousness, painfu menstruation, respiratory problems, skin reaction, sore throat, vaginal inflammation, weakness

Why should CombiPatch not be prescribed?

The hormones in CombiPatch should not be used during pregnancy. You should also avoid this product if you have:
Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Known or suspected breast cancer
Any type of tumor stimulated by estrogen
Phlebitis, stroke, or any other clotting disorder
An allergy to any component of the patch

Special warnings about CombiPatch

Estrogen, with or without progestins, has the potential of causing clot-related disorders, including heart attack and stroke, pulmonary embolism (a clot in the lungs), and thrombophlebitis (a clot in the veins). If you have a history of deep-vein thrombosis (a clot in the legs), or of thrombosis in your family, be sure to tell your doctor. The chance of developing a clot-related problem can be reduced by using the lowest dose of estrogen that still proves effective. If a problem develops, you'll have to stop using the patch. Likewise, you should discontinue the patch and call your doctor immediately if you suffer a loss of vision, any other eye problems, or a migraine headache.

Estrogen replacement therapy increases the risk of developing cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer). The risk increases with longer use and higher doses. Combining estrogen and progestin reduces the risk of endometrial cancer caused by estrogen alone. However, this combination is not recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), since they are not at risk for endometrial cancer.