What Nextstellis Is and What It Contains
Nextstellis is a brand-name, combined hormonal oral contraceptive prescribed for pregnancy prevention. It combines the progestin drospirenone with a unique native estrogen called estetrol (E4). Unlike many other birth control pills that use ethinyl estradiol, Nextstellis's estrogen component, estetrol, is naturally produced during pregnancy and is sourced from plants for the medication. This formulation is taken on a 28-day schedule, typically with tablets containing active hormones followed by inactive tablets. The estetrol in Nextstellis is thought to act more selectively on estrogen receptors, potentially leading to fewer estrogen-related side effects compared to ethinyl estradiol.
How Nextstellis Works
Nextstellis prevents pregnancy primarily by preventing ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. The combination of drospirenone and estetrol suppresses the hormonal signals needed for ovulation.
Additionally, Nextstellis contributes to pregnancy prevention through two other mechanisms:
- Thickening cervical mucus: This makes it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
- Altering the uterine lining: This makes it less suitable for a fertilized egg to implant.
Potential Benefits and Side Effects
Nextstellis offers potential advantages due to its unique composition but also carries risks common to hormonal contraceptives.
Potential Benefits
- Unique estrogen: The inclusion of estetrol may lead to a lower incidence of certain estrogen-related side effects like breast tenderness.
- High efficacy: When used correctly, Nextstellis is highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
- Predictable cycle: The structured regimen can help in establishing a regular menstrual cycle.
Potential Side Effects
- Bleeding irregularities: Spotting or breakthrough bleeding is a frequent side effect, particularly in the initial months.
- Mood changes: Some users experience mood alterations, including irritability, anxiety, and depression.
- Headaches: Headaches or migraines are also reported.
- Other common effects: These can include breast tenderness, weight fluctuations, acne, and changes in libido.
Nextstellis vs. Traditional Combination Pills
The key distinction between Nextstellis and traditional combined oral contraceptives, such as Yaz, is the type of estrogen they contain.
| Feature | Nextstellis | Yaz (Traditional Combined Pill) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Drospirenone and Estetrol (E4) | Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol |
| Estrogen Type | Native Estrogen (Estetrol) | Synthetic Estrogen (Ethinyl Estradiol) |
| Potential Side Effects | Potentially fewer estrogen-related side effects | Standard range of side effects associated with ethinyl estradiol |
| Regimen Structure | Typically involves active tablets followed by inactive tablets | Typically involves active tablets followed by inactive tablets (various regimens exist) |
| Regulatory Approval | FDA approved in 2021 | FDA approved earlier (Yaz in 2006) |
Important Safety Information
Nextstellis, like other hormonal birth control, carries a risk of serious side effects. It includes a boxed warning highlighting the increased risk of severe cardiovascular events like blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes, particularly in women over 35 who smoke. Nextstellis is not suitable for individuals with certain medical histories, such as:
- A history of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke.
- Specific heart valve issues.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Certain cancers (like hormone-sensitive breast cancer).
- Liver disease or tumors.
- Kidney disease or impaired adrenal function.
- Severe migraines with aura.
A thorough discussion of your medical history with a healthcare provider is essential before starting Nextstellis. Conditions like depression, diabetes, or gallbladder problems should also be mentioned.
Nextstellis vs. Other Next-Named Medications
To avoid confusion, it's important to differentiate Nextstellis from medications with similar-sounding names but different uses and ingredients:
- Nexlizet® and Nexletol®: These are non-statin oral medications for lowering cholesterol and reducing heart attack risk.
- Nexplanon®: This is a long-acting contraceptive implant containing etonogestrel, not an oral pill.
- Next Choice® One Dose: This is an emergency contraceptive pill with levonorgestrel.
Conclusion
Nextstellis is a combined oral contraceptive featuring the native estrogen estetrol and progestin drospirenone. It is used to prevent pregnancy and may offer a different side effect profile compared to pills with synthetic estrogen. As a prescription medication, it comes with important safety considerations, including a boxed warning regarding cardiovascular risks, especially for smokers over 35. It's crucial to correctly identify Nextstellis and not confuse it with other medications like Nexlizet, Nexletol, or Nexplanon. Consulting a healthcare provider is vital to determine if Nextstellis is a suitable birth control option for your individual health profile. For complete prescribing details, refer to the official FDA documentation(https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/214154s000lbl.pdf).
