Nordette

Nordette is a prescription birth control pill that contains two different hormones, progestin and estrogen. These hormones prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation and changing the lining of the uterus and cervical mucus. Each pack of Nordette contains 28 tablets that must be taken in order, at the same time each day. Potential side effects of this form of contraceptive include breakthrough bleeding, acne, and headaches.

 

What Is Nordette?

Nordette® (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is a birth control pill (oral contraceptive) that is used to prevent pregnancy.
 
The following two generic birth control pills are equivalent to Nordette:
 
  • Levora® (made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
  • Portia® (made by Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).
     
(Click Nordette Uses for more information on what Nordette is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Nordette?

Nordette is made by Duramed Pharmaceuticals, a division of Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Generic versions of Nordette are made by other manufacturers (see Generic Nordette for more information).
 

How Does Nordette Work?

Nordette belongs to a group of birth control pills known as combined oral contraceptives, the most common type of birth control pill. It is called a combined oral contraceptive because it contains a combination of two different types of hormones. Nordette contains both an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (levonorgestrel).
 
The hormones in Nordette mainly prevent pregnancy by preventing ovulation (the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries). Nordette also works in two other, less important ways. It changes the cervical mucus (the fluid of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina), making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. Nordette also alters the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium), making it less receptive to an embryo.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;