Jolivette

Jolivette is a generic oral contraceptive that is available by prescription only. It is a progestin-only pill that is most often recommended for breastfeeding women and women who cannot take estrogens for other reasons. Each pack of Jolivette contains 28 tablets that must be taken once daily, at the same time each day. Common Jolivette side effects include nausea, irregular menstrual periods, and breast tenderness.

 

What Is Jolivette?

Jolivette® (norethindrone) is a prescription oral contraceptive, also known as a birth control pill. It is a generic version of Ortho Micronor®. Unlike most birth control pills, Jolivette does not contain estrogen (it contains only a progestin hormone). As a progestin-only contraceptive (also known as a "mini-pill"), Jolivette is an ideal choice for breastfeeding mothers and other women who should not take estrogens.
 
(Click What Is Jolivette Used For? for more information on Jolivette uses, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Jolivette Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Jolivette. However, not everyone who uses the contraceptive will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of Jolivette include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Headaches
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea.
     
(Click Side Effects of Jolivette to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
(Jolivette Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;