Cilest

Cilest is one of the more common types of contraceptive pill used by women. Cilest also known as – 'The Pill' is manufactured by Janssen-Cilag Ltd. This pill consists of 35 micrograms of the oestrogen ethinylestradiol and 250 micrograms of the progestogen norgestimate. It is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy if taken properly. Apart from preventing pregnancy, this pill can also treat heavy and painful periods, premenstrual syndrome and endometriosis. Cilest contains both the female hormones that are produced in the ovaries.

It is important that you start taking cilest from the 1st day of the menstrual cycle if you want an immediate contraceptive measure. The pill has a pack of 21 pills which should be taken once daily for 21 days and the stopped for 7 days. You can again start a new strip of cilest. During the 7 days break you may witness withdrawal bleed. This is normal. However you may have to consult a doctor is you have not taken the pills properly and have no withdrawal bleed.

Sometimes the effectiveness of the pill is reduced if you have missed a dose or are taking other medications for upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting or other medical conditions. If any of the before circumstances occur then it recommended that you do not take the 7 days break after 21 days and continue with the next pack.

If there is no 7 days break, you will not have a withdrawal bleed, but there are chances of you having some menstrual bleeding during the start of the second pack and at the end of the pack you will witness withdrawal bleed accordingly.

Precautions Before Taking Cilest

Always give your full medical history to the prescriber if you are:

1. Breast-feeding
2. Smoke heavily and are over 35 years of age
3. Obese
4. Suffering from irregular menstrual cycles
5. Diabetic and have complications such as eye or kidney problems
6. Suffering from certain heart or circulation problems
7. Sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients in the medicine
8. Suffering from hyperlipidaemia
9. Currently having investigations for breast cancer or had breast cancer
10. Having problems such as systemic lupus erythematosus, otosclerosis, itching or rashes that became worse after taking hormonal contraceptives or during pregnancy
11. Being treated for or having gallbladder or liver problems
12. Having vaginal bleeding and the cause is unknown
13. Suffering from high blood pressure, migraine or severe headaches

Cilest should be specifically avoided by girls who have not begun menstruating or by women who have already experienced menopause.

Cilest side effects

Cilest is clinically approved but some people may experience side effects which include:

• Diarrhoea and gastrointestinal problems: If you begin experiencing diarrhea after taking Cilest you might need to opt for additional contraception measures as the potency of Cilest as a contraception medication is reduced with Diarrhoea. Headaches – seek immediate medical advice if you get a headache for the first time, if your headache worsens or is persistent.
• Menstrual problems including irregular and/or pauinful periods. Seek a doctor's advice if you experience spotting between your periods after taking Cilest for few days.
• Nausea is another possible side effect. Again, if you vomit within a few hours of taking Cilest you will have to opt for additional contraceptive measures.
• Acne, dizziness, constipation and weakness are other common side effects.