Lutera contraceptive birth control prescription online 

Lutera birth control (ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel) is highly effective for contraception. Get a same-day prescription or refill of Lutera from a caring, board-certified doctor online.*

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Combination pill of progestin and estrogen

Used to prevent pregnancy

Follow full course for effective results

*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.

About Lutera birth control (ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel)

Lutera is considered a combination birth control pill that contains two hormones: progestin and estrogen. It prevents ovulation and thickens the lining of the cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy.

Lutera is a prescription-only medication used to prevent pregnancy. It is available in a generic formulation as ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, as well as under different brand names.

Lutera is prescribed in a pill form. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

If you're prescribed Lutera, be sure to complete the full course of the birth control unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the birth control may not work effectively to prevent pregnancy.

Lutera birth control uses

There are several FDA-approved uses for Lutera, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your health care provider 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.

  • Pregnancy prevention (birth control)

    Lutera is FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy. Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel work to prevent ovulation and thicken the cervical mucus, which prevents an egg from attaching to the uterus.

    Lutera may also be prescribed to regulate menstrual periods, treat acne, and decrease the risk of ovarian cysts in patients interested in pregnancy prevention.

Lutera side effects

  • The side effects associated with taking Lutera are typically mild. Most Lutera side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Common side effects of Lutera may include:

    • Nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach

    • Breakthrough bleeding (spotting)

    • Breast tenderness or pain


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


    You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of Lutera birth control is not recommended in children before menarche.

How to take Lutera oral contraceptive

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Lutera prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

Lutera can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. You should start a new pack of birth control pills on the first day of your menstrual period or the first Sunday after your period begins. You'll need to use a back-up method, such as condoms or spermicide, to prevent sexually transmitted diseases or infections.

What to avoid while taking Lutera

Lutera has 436 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or herbal medications, as well as over-the-counter drugs. 

Possible drug interactions with Lutera include:

  • Aromatase inhibitors, including anastrozole and exemestane

  • Tranexamic acid

  • Hepatitis C medicine

  • Tamoxifen

  • Ospemifene

  • Tizanidine


It's safe to drink alcohol while taking Lutera birth control.

Medication alternatives to Lutera

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

Lutera prescription FAQs

  • How much does Lutera cost?

    Depending on your pharmacy, Lutera costs around $65 for 168 tablets without insurance. Fortunately, many health insurance plans offer free or low-cost birth control pills. Our prescription discount card also helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.

  • Is Lutera a good birth control?

    Yes, Lutera is highly effective at preventing pregnancy when taken as directed.

  • What type of birth control pill is Lutera?

    Lutera is a combination hormone birth control pill. As an oral contraceptive, Lutera contains two hormones, estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (levonorgestrel), which work to prevent pregnancy.

  • Is Lutera a low-estrogen pill?

    Yes, Lutera contains a lower dose of estrogen than other birth control pills. Low-estrogen pills may cause fewer side effects, such as weight gain, mood swings, and bloating, compared to high-estrogen pills.

  • Can Lutera cause anxiety?

    Yes, anxiety and mood changes are possible side effects of Lutera birth control.

  • How can I refill my Lutera prescription?

    To refill your Lutera prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

  • Who should not take Lutera?

    To make sure Lutera is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

    • Heart disease or high blood pressure

    • History of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke

    • Coronary artery disease

    • Irregular vaginal bleeding

    • High cholesterol or triglycerides

    • Liver or kidney disease

    • Migraine headaches

    • Breast cancer

    • Diabetes

    If you have underlying risk factors for cardiovascular disease, you may require regular laboratory and medical tests while taking birth control pills to make sure hormonal contraceptives are safe for you.

    Women who are 35 years or older and who smoke should not use oral contraceptives to prevent pregnancy. Ask your doctor for medical advice about non-hormonal birth control.

  • What happens if I miss a dose of Lutera?

    If you miss an active pill, take two pills on the day you remember. Then, follow your regular dosing schedule for the rest of the pill pack.

    If you miss two active pills in a row on week 1 or 2, take two pills per day for two days in a row. Make sure to use back-up birth control for at least seven days following missed pills.

  • What happens if I take too much Lutera?

    If you've taken too much Lutera, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center.

3 simple steps to request your Lutera prescription today 

Step 1: Book an appointment

Step 1

Book a Lutera prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2: Visit with a doctor on your smartphone

Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Lutera prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3: pick up at local pharmacy

Step 3

Pick up your Lutera prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Lutera prescription pricing details

How pricing works

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

Paying with insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

Copay

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

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:

    • Humana
    • Aetna
    • United Healthcare

Paying without insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

$129

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

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Book an appointment

If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

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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.