Is norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol the same as Xulane?: Understanding the Contraceptive Patch

October 10, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the CDC, approximately 10.4% of U.S. women using contraception choose hormonal methods other than the pill, such as the patch. The simple answer to 'Is norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol the same as Xulane?' is yes, since Xulane is a specific brand of the patch containing these two active ingredients.

Quick Summary

Xulane is a brand-name version of the contraceptive patch containing the active ingredients norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol, which prevent pregnancy by releasing hormones transdermally. While Xulane is a specific brand, the drug's generic name is norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol. Both brand and generic versions deliver the same active hormones, but may differ in inactive ingredients, size, and cost.

Key Points

Brand vs. Generic: Xulane is the brand name for the contraceptive patch, while norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol are its active ingredients, also available as generics.
Equivalent Efficacy: Both Xulane and its generic versions are considered therapeutically equivalent, providing the same effectiveness and hormonal amount.
Transdermal Delivery: The patch works by releasing hormones through the skin to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining.
Key Difference is Cost: A main factor in choosing between brand and generic is the cost, as generic versions are often significantly cheaper.
Appearance May Vary: Inactive ingredients can differ, leading to variations in patch size or appearance, such as the size difference between Xulane and Zafemy.
Important Health Warnings: Users should be aware of serious health risks, particularly a higher risk of blood clots for women over 35 who smoke or those with a high BMI.

Xulane vs. Generic Norelgestromin and Ethinyl Estradiol: A Direct Comparison

Many people are familiar with the brand name Xulane, but less so with its generic name, norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol. Understanding the relationship between the brand and generic versions of medication is key for making informed healthcare decisions. Xulane is a specific brand-name contraceptive patch that contains the active ingredients norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol. As with many pharmaceuticals, once the original patent expires, other manufacturers can produce generic versions containing the identical active drug components. This means that the generic norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol patch is, for all intents and purposes, the same medication as Xulane, offering the same hormonal amount and mechanism of action. The primary differences typically lie in the inactive ingredients, such as adhesives, appearance (like patch size), and, importantly, the cost.

How Combination Hormonal Patches Work to Prevent Pregnancy

The contraceptive patch is a transdermal delivery system, meaning the hormones are absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. This differs from oral contraceptives, where the hormones are processed through the digestive system and liver. The combination of norelgestromin (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) prevents pregnancy in several ways.

Primary Mechanism

Ovulation Inhibition: The steady release of hormones from the patch suppresses the body's natural cycle, primarily by preventing ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovary. No egg means no fertilization can occur.

Secondary Mechanisms

Cervical Mucus Thickening: The hormones cause the cervical mucus to become thicker and stickier. This creates a barrier that makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach an egg.
Uterine Lining Changes: The hormonal changes also affect the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg. This reduces the chances of implantation.

Important Considerations for the Patch

While highly effective, the patch is not suitable for everyone. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right birth control method for you. Important considerations include:

Weight Restrictions: The patch may be less effective in women who weigh 198 pounds (90 kg) or more. This is a significant limitation that healthcare providers must discuss with patients.
Cardiovascular Risks: Use of combined hormonal contraceptives, including the patch, increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, blood clots, and strokes. This risk is notably higher for women over 35 who smoke.
Estrogen Exposure: The transdermal delivery of hormones from the patch results in higher overall estrogen exposure compared to some oral contraceptives.
Skin Reactions: Some users may experience skin irritation, redness, or rash at the application site. Rotating the application site each week can help minimize this side effect.
No STI Protection: Like other hormonal birth control methods, the patch does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How to Use the Contraceptive Patch

The standard protocol for the Xulane and generic patches follows a 28-day cycle:

Weeks 1-3: Apply one new patch once a week on the same day. For example, if you start on a Sunday, your "Patch Change Day" will be every Sunday for three consecutive weeks.
Week 4: Go patch-free. Your menstrual period, or withdrawal bleeding, is expected to occur during this week.
Start a New Cycle: After the patch-free week, apply a new patch on the same Patch Change Day to begin a new cycle.

Comparing Xulane and Generic Patches


Feature	Xulane (Brand)	Norelgestromin / Ethinyl Estradiol (Generic)	Notes
Active Ingredients	Norelgestromin and Ethinyl Estradiol	Norelgestromin and Ethinyl Estradiol	The core drug formula is identical.
Mechanism	Inhibits ovulation, thickens cervical mucus	Inhibits ovulation, thickens cervical mucus	Same mechanism of action for both.
Hormone Amount	Contains specific amounts of norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol per patch	Contains the same specific amounts of norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol per patch as the brand	Both deliver equivalent amounts of active hormones.
Efficacy	99% effective with perfect use; 91% with typical use	Considered therapeutically equivalent to the brand	Equivalent effectiveness when used correctly.
Cost	Typically higher priced	Often lower priced	Generic versions are generally more affordable.
Physical Characteristics	Specific patch size and appearance	Can vary in size, shape, or appearance	Differences in inactive components may lead to subtle changes in appearance or feel.

Conclusion: Navigating Brand vs. Generic

Ultimately, the key takeaway is that norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol are the active hormonal medications found within the Xulane contraceptive patch. When you are prescribed the generic version, you are receiving the same medication with the same effectiveness and safety profile as the brand-name Xulane. The choice between a brand-name and a generic medication often comes down to personal preference for appearance and cost. Always consult your healthcare provider and pharmacist to discuss these differences and ensure you are using the best option for your health and lifestyle. Understanding this distinction empowers you to make informed decisions about your contraception and manage your healthcare effectively.

Mayo Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Xulane is a prominent brand, but other generic versions exist. For example, Zafemy is another brand that contains the same active ingredients, norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol.

Yes, generic patches containing norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol are considered therapeutically equivalent by the FDA. They deliver the same amount of active hormones and have the same efficacy.

The primary reason for choosing a generic over a brand-name medication is cost. Generic versions are typically less expensive, which can be a significant factor depending on insurance coverage and personal budget.

Yes, you can typically switch between Xulane and a generic patch under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Since the active ingredients are the same, the therapeutic effect should be identical.

The main difference lies in the inactive ingredients, such as adhesives and carriers, which can affect the patch's size, feel, or appearance. Generic versions are also generally more affordable.

Your healthcare provider can indicate on your prescription that a generic is acceptable. The pharmacy may then automatically dispense the generic version unless your doctor has specified 'dispense as written'.

While the active ingredients and efficacy are the same, some people might notice a subtle difference in the patch's feel or how it adheres to the skin due to different inactive ingredients. The risk of side effects remains comparable.