NUVARING, 15+120MCG/24, VAGINAL RING

Common uses

This medication is a hormone-based contraceptive. Typically, it is used to prevent pregnancy. It may also have other uses. Even though you may not feel its effects, this medication takes effect after a few days.

How to use this medication

The active ingredients in this product are contained in a flexible vaginal ring. Usually, this contraceptive method is based on a 28-day cycle; 3 weeks with a ring, then 1 week without. Always start a new cycle with a new ring. Your health care professional may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you.

Regularly check for the presence of the ring in the vagina (for example, before and after intercourse). If the ring is removed or expelled, if you forget to change your ring or if you start a cycle late, contact your pharmacist who can help advise you on what to do next.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause headaches;
• it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
• it may make your skin more sensitive to UV rays (e.g., sunlight, tanning lamps) - avoid exposure to UV rays as much as possible and protect yourself when out in the sun;
• it may cause vaginitis in woman.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

Keep this product in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Do not use this product if it was dispensed to you more than 4 months ago. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight.

Additional information

You are advised not to smoke when taking hormonal contraceptives. Smoking increases the risks of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The risks increase with age and with as few as 15 cigarettes a day. The increased risks are significant enough that after the age of 35, smokers should change their contraceptive method.

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.