Understanding Microgynon and Its Generic Form
Microgynon is a widely prescribed combined oral contraceptive pill, often referred to simply as 'the pill' [1.2.1]. It contains two active ingredients: a synthetic progestogen called levonorgestrel and a synthetic estrogen called ethinylestradiol [1.3.2, 1.3.5]. These hormones work together primarily to prevent pregnancy. The generic name for Microgynon is therefore Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol [1.2.2, 1.2.3]. Several unbranded or generic versions are available, which contain the same active ingredients at the same strength. For example, Levest is a generic version of Microgynon 30 [1.2.1]. Other pills with the same active ingredients include Rigevidon and Ovranette [1.2.1].
How Does Microgynon Work?
The combination of levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol in Microgynon prevents pregnancy through a three-pronged mechanism of action [1.3.5, 1.6.1]:
- Inhibition of Ovulation: The primary way it works is by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation) [1.2.2]. The hormones in the pill suppress the mid-cycle surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that normally triggers egg release [1.3.3].
- Thickening Cervical Mucus: The hormones make the fluid in the cervix thicker and more viscous [1.3.5, 1.6.5]. This change makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach the uterus, thus preventing fertilization [1.3.5].
- Altering the Uterine Lining: The pill also changes the lining of the womb (endometrium), making it thinner and less suitable for a fertilized egg to implant and grow [1.3.5].
When taken correctly, this multi-faceted approach makes the pill more than 99% effective [1.2.1]. However, in typical real-world use, effectiveness is closer to 92%, often due to missed pills or other factors like vomiting or drug interactions [1.3.6].
Formulations and Dosage
Microgynon 30, a common formulation, contains 150 micrograms (mcg) of levonorgestrel and 30 mcg of ethinylestradiol per tablet [1.3.2, 1.3.4]. It is typically taken as one tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day pill-free interval during which withdrawal bleeding occurs [1.2.4]. There is also Microgynon 30 ED (Every Day), which includes 21 active tablets and 7 inactive (placebo) tablets to help maintain the daily routine during the pill-free week [1.2.1]. Other formulations with different strengths, such as Microgynon 20, are also available [1.4.9].
Common and Serious Side Effects
Like all medications, Microgynon and its generic forms can cause side effects. Many users experience no side effects, but some may, especially during the first few months as the body adjusts [1.5.2].
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 users) include:
- Nausea or stomach ache [1.5.2]
- Headaches [1.5.2]
- Breast tenderness or pain [1.3.3]
- Mood changes, including depressed mood [1.3.3]
- Weight changes [1.5.5]
- Irregular bleeding or spotting between periods, especially in the first few months [1.2.4]
Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 users) can include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea [1.3.3]
- Migraine [1.5.2]
- Fluid retention [1.3.3]
- Loss of interest in sex [1.5.2]
- Breast enlargement [1.5.2]
Rare but serious side effects require immediate medical attention. The use of combined hormonal contraceptives is associated with an increased risk of blood clots (venous thromboembolism or VTE), which can occur in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism) [1.5.4]. This risk is highest during the first year of use [1.2.4]. Symptoms of a blood clot can include sudden shortness of breath, sharp chest pain, or swelling and pain in one leg [1.5.5]. There is also a small increased risk of breast and cervical cancer, though the risk of breast cancer appears to diminish after stopping the pill [1.5.8].
Comparison of Microgynon and Generic Equivalents
| Feature | Microgynon (Brand Name) | Levest (Generic) | Other Generics (e.g., Rigevidon, Ovranette) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Levonorgestrel & Ethinylestradiol [1.3.2] | Levonorgestrel & Ethinylestradiol [1.2.1] | Levonorgestrel & Ethinylestradiol [1.2.1] |
| Dosage (e.g., '30') | 150mcg / 30mcg [1.3.2] | Same as the brand-name equivalent [1.2.1] | Same as the brand-name equivalent [1.2.1] |
| Effectiveness | Over 99% with perfect use [1.2.1] | Medically identical to the brand name | Medically identical to the brand name |
| Mechanism of Action | Prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, thins uterine lining [1.3.5] | Same as the brand name | Same as the brand name |
| Availability | Prescription only [1.2.1] | Prescription only [1.2.1] | Prescription only |
Conclusion
The generic name for the brand Microgynon is the combination of its active hormonal ingredients, Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol. Generic versions like Levest, Rigevidon, and others are medically equivalent to Microgynon, offering the same contraceptive protection, mechanism of action, and safety profile [1.2.1]. They provide a three-tiered defense against pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, altering cervical mucus, and changing the uterine lining [1.3.5]. While highly effective and offering benefits like lighter and more regular periods, users should be aware of potential side effects and the rare but serious risks, such as blood clots [1.5.4, 1.5.6]. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine if this or any contraceptive is the right choice.
[Authoritative Link: https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/combined-pill/]
