Understanding Aurovela and Its Generic Relationship
Aurovela is a generic version of the combination oral contraceptive pill, which is sold under brand names like Loestrin. As a generic medication, it contains the same active ingredients as its brand-name counterparts: norethindrone acetate (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). These hormones work together primarily by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary) during the menstrual cycle. The medication also causes changes in the cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the uterus and for a fertilized egg to attach. Although the Aurovela brand itself has been discontinued, its chemical equivalents, such as Junel, remain widely available.
How Combination Birth Control Pills Work
Aurovela is classified as a combination oral contraceptive because it contains both an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (norethindrone acetate). These synthetic hormones mimic the natural hormones in a woman's body to prevent pregnancy. The primary mechanisms of action are:
- Inhibition of Ovulation: The hormones suppress the release of eggs from the ovaries.
- Thickening of Cervical Mucus: This makes it harder for sperm to penetrate the cervix and reach an egg.
- Alteration of the Endometrium: The lining of the uterus is changed to make it less receptive to the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Most packs of Aurovela, and its equivalents, come in a 28-day cycle. This typically includes active pills containing hormones, followed by inactive or 'reminder' pills. Some formulations, known as 'Fe' versions, include ferrous fumarate (iron) in the inactive pills, which does not serve a therapeutic purpose for contraception but can help supplement iron. Other formulations may have different numbers of active and inactive pills.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
Like all medications, combination birth control pills can cause side effects. Common, milder side effects may include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, bloating, and weight changes. Some individuals may also experience spotting or irregular bleeding, especially during the first few months of use.
More serious side effects are rare but can occur. Taking birth control pills can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, particularly in women who smoke and are over the age of 35. It's crucial to discuss your full medical history with a doctor before starting any oral contraceptive. Conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, a history of blood clots, or certain types of cancer may make combination pills an unsuitable option.
Aurovela vs. Other Generic and Brand Names
The main difference between generic medications like Aurovela (and its equivalents like Junel, Blisovi, and Larin) and the brand-name drug Loestrin is often the manufacturer and cost. Generic drugs are typically more affordable. The active ingredients, dosage, and function are the same.
| Feature | Aurovela (Generic) | Loestrin (Brand) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Norethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol | Norethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol |
| Purpose | Prevention of pregnancy, can also treat acne | Prevention of pregnancy |
| Mechanism | Combination oral contraceptive | Combination oral contraceptive |
| Availability | Widely available as various generic equivalents | Available as brand and generics |
| Cost | Generally lower cost | Generally higher cost |
Additional Uses and Benefits
Beyond preventing pregnancy, combination birth control pills like Aurovela can offer other benefits. They are sometimes prescribed to treat moderate acne in women who have started their menstrual periods. They can also help make periods more regular, decrease blood loss and painful periods, and reduce the risk of ovarian cysts.
Conclusion
Aurovela is a generic form of combination birth control pills, with Loestrin being one of its brand-name equivalents. It contains norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol to effectively prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and creating other physiological barriers to fertilization. While the Aurovela brand name has been discontinued, numerous other generic versions with the same active ingredients, such as Junel, are readily available and offer a more affordable but equally effective option for contraception. As with any prescription medication, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this type of birth control is the right choice for you and to understand the potential risks and benefits. For more information from an authoritative source, you can visit the DailyMed page provided by the National Library of Medicine.
