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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 primary care doctor online today.*
Combination pill of progestin and estrogen Used to prevent pregnancy Follow full course for effective results
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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 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 don’t take your prescription exactly as prescribed, the birth control may not work effectively to prevent pregnancy.

Lutera birth control uses

Lutera is FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. 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 sperm from reaching an egg and fertilizing it.

Lutera may also be prescribed for the following reasons:

  • Regulating menstrual periods

  • Treating acne

  • Decreasing the risk and size of ovarian cysts

  • Improving mood and symptoms associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Lutera side effects

The side effects associated with taking Lutera are typically mild and may include:

  • Nausea or upset stomach

  • Breakthrough bleeding (spotting)

  • Breast tenderness

  • Headache


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 (the first period).

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How to take Lutera oral contraceptive

Your doctor 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 can start Lutera at any point during your menstrual cycle but should use a back-up method of birth control for one week after starting if you begin the pill more than 5 days from the start of your period. You'll also 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 may interact with other medications or herbal medications, as well as over-the-counter drugs. Sometimes these interactions make Lutera less effective at preventing pregnancy. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping other medications while you are taking Lutera.

Medications that may interact with Lutera include:

  • Aromatase inhibitors, including anastrozole and exemestane, use to treat or prevent breast cancer

  • Tranexamic acid

  • Hepatitis C medicine

  • Tamoxifen

  • Ospemifene and other SERMs (selective estrogen receptor modulators)

  • Tizanidine

  • GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy

  • Antibiotics


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?

The cost depends on your pharmacy and 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, meaning it contains two hormones, estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (levonorgestrel). These hormones work together to prevent pregnancy.

Is Lutera a low-estrogen pill?

Yes, Lutera contains a low dose of estrogen. 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?

While everyone reacts differently, mood changes such as anxiety are not common 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

If you have underlying risk factors for cardiovascular disease, you may be at higher risk for side effects or complications with hormonal contraceptives.

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.

If you miss more than 2 active pills, talk with your doctor to determine the best course of action to prevent pregnancy.

What happens if I take too much Lutera?

If you've taken too much Lutera, call your doctor or contact your local poison control center.

3 simple steps to request your Lutera prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Lutera prescription request appointment.

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

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Lutera prescription.

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

Pick up your Lutera prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

How pricing works

To get a new or refill on your Lutera 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

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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.

Lutera prescription resources

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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.