Microgestin Fe

Microgestin Fe is a combined oral contraceptive, which means that it contains both an estrogen and a progestin. This prescription birth control pill is taken every day, at the same time each day. It works by stopping ovulation, as well as by altering the cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus. Possible side effects of Microgestin Fe include nausea, breast tenderness, and headaches.

 

What Is Microgestin Fe?

Microgestin® Fe (norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription birth control pill (technically known as an oral contraceptive). The following birth control pills are equivalent to Microgestin Fe:
 
  • Junel Fe™ (made by Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
  • Loestrin® Fe (made by Duramed Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).
     
Microgestin Fe is a generic version of Loestrin® Fe (see Generic Loestrin Fe for more information). Loestrin Fe is different from plain Loestrin® because it has 28 tablets in each pack and the last 7 tablets contain iron (Loestrin has 21 tablets and does not contain iron). The information in this article does not apply to plain Loestrin.
 
Loestrin Fe is not the same as Loestrin® 24 Fe, a newer birth control pill that provides a shorter, lighter period. The information in this article does not apply to Loestrin 24 Fe.
 
(Click What Is Microgestin Fe Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 
(Microgestin Fe Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;