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Sexual Health Birth Control Desogen
Sexual Health Birth Control Desogen

Desogen (desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol) prescription available online

If you are looking to prevent pregnancy, Desogen (desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Desogen from a board-certified doctor online.*

Combination pill that contains desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol Does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases Request Desogen in as little as 15 minutes, with or without insurance*
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Desogen (desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol)

Desogen is a type of combination oral contraceptive that contains the hormones desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. These hormones help prevent ovulation, make it harder for sperm to reach the uterus, and make it more difficult for fertilized eggs to implant in the uterus.

Desogen is primarily used to prevent pregnancy, but can also treat conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic heavy menstrual bleeding, acne, dysmenorrhea, hirsutism, and polycystic ovary syndrome. It is important to note that, as a birth control, it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Desogen is a prescription medication and is available in both brand-name and generic formulations.

It's important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription as they may vary depending on the dosage. To ensure the effectiveness of this birth control, it's crucial to take it as directed by your doctor. Otherwise, the hormonal contraceptives may not be as effective in preventing pregnancy.

Desogen uses

There are many FDA-approved uses for Desogen, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online clinician may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your doctor may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.

Birth control

Desogen is a birth control used to prevent pregnancy by using hormones estrogen and progestin.

Abnormal uterine bleeding

The FDA approved the off-label use of Desogen for the treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding due to heavy menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea, hirsutism, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Acne

The FDA approved the off-label use of Desogen for the treatment of acne.

Desogen side effects

The side effects associated with taking Desogen are typically mild to moderate. Most Desogen side effects are associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. Some common side effects of Desogen may include:

  • Vomiting

  • Nausea

  • Headache

  • Mood changes

  • Depression

  • Decreased/increased libido

  • Swelling of the feet or ankles (fluid retention)

  • Breast tenderness

  • Breakthrough bleeding

  • Acne

  • Irregular periods

  • Weight change


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Blood clots

  • Stroke

  • Heart attack

  • Liver problems

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Severe abdominal pain


You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.

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How to take Desogen

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Desogen prescription.

Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

Desogen can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed as one tablet daily, in the order presented in the blister pack. Take Desogen at the same time each day for maximum protection against pregnancy.

Some specific instructions may include not smoking cigarettes while taking Desogen. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious heart-related complications.

What to avoid while taking Desogen

Desogen has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs and vitamins. 

To prevent potentially serious interactions, make sure you tell your doctor if you take any of the following medications:

  • Ospemifene

  • Tizanidine

  • Tamoxifen

  • Tranexamic acid

  • Aromatase inhibitors (like anastrozole, exemestane)

  • Certain combination products used to treat chronic hepatitis C (ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir with or without dasabuvir)

  • Rifamycins (like rifampin, rifabutin)

  • St John’s wort

  • Modafinil

  • Griseofulvin

  • HIV drugs

  • Drugs used to treat seizures

  • Antibiotics


It is important to check your blood pressure when taking Desogen. Desogen can increase your blood pressure.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Desogen.

Medication alternatives to Desogen

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another combination birth control or oral contraceptives in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Birth control

Yaz (drospirenone) NuvaRing Ortho tri cyclen Loryna Lo Loestrin Fe Junel Fe Kariva Yasmin Lutera Sprintec Errin Slynd

Abnormal uterine bleeding

Sprintec Lutera Kariva Errin

Acne

Ortho tri cyclen Loryna Lo Loestrin Fe Junel Fe Yaz (drospirenone)

Desogen prescription FAQs

How much does Desogen cost?

Birth control pills, including Desogen, can be low to no cost, depending on insurance coverage. Our prescription discount card also helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.

How can I refill my Desogen prescription?

Desogen is only available by prescription, so you can book an appointment with one of our board-certified doctors to get a refill on your prescription online. Your prescription will then be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup if you qualify.

Who should not take Desogen?

Desogen is generally considered safe. However, some contraindications are listed. Always tell your doctor about your medical history and any medications you take.

Women 35 years and older who also smoke cigarettes should not take Desogen. Women taking oral contraceptives should let their doctor know if they have the following health conditions:

  • High blood pressure

  • Blood clots

  • Cancer

  • Migraines

  • Coronary artery disease

  • Liver disease

  • Kidney disease

  • Diabetes

  • Breast cancer

  • High cholesterol

  • Depression

  • Gallbladder disease

  • Stroke

  • Thyroid problems

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding

What happens if I miss a dose of Desogen?

If one active tablet of Desogen is missed, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If two active tablets are missed, take the two missed doses as soon as possible and take the next two active tablets the next day. Continue taking one tablet a day until the pack of combined oral contraceptives is finished.

What happens if I take too much Desogen?

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. Contact your local poison control center or doctor immediately if you take too much Desogen.

What kind of birth control is Desogen?

Desogen is a combination hormonal birth control.

Is Desogen a good pill?

Desogen is an effective birth control pill to prevent pregnancy, however, it may not be the right fit for everyone. Talk to one of our top-rated doctors to find the best birth control pills for you.

What does Desogen contain?

Desogen contains the two hormones ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel.

3 simple steps to request your Desogen prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Desogen prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your clinician regarding your Desogen prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Desogen birth control.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

How pricing works

To get a new or refill on your Desogen prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


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Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.