Locipil Tablet is used for:

• Contraception: Helps prevent pregnancy when taken correctly according to the prescribed schedule.

The doctor decides whether this medicine is suitable for you based on your medical history, individual risk factors and contraceptive needs.

Locipil Tablet contains Desogestrel and Ethinylestradiol, two synthetic hormones that work together to prevent pregnancy.

Desogestrel helps prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. It also thickens the mucus in the cervix, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. Ethinylestradiol helps regulate hormonal activity and supports the contraceptive effect of Desogestrel.

Together, these hormones reduce the likelihood of fertilisation. The medicine may also make menstrual bleeding more regular, lighter or less painful in some people.

Some medicines can reduce the contraceptive effectiveness of Locipil Tablet or change the way it works. Tell your doctor about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements you take.

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines: Rifampicin and rifabutin can reduce contraceptive effectiveness. Some antifungal medicines may also affect hormone levels. Tell your doctor about any treatment you are taking.

• Anti-epileptic medicines: Medicines such as carbamazepine, phenytoin and phenobarbital can increase the breakdown of contraceptive hormones and reduce pregnancy protection.

• HIV and hepatitis medicines: Some antiviral medicines can affect hormone levels or interact with combined hormonal contraceptives. Your doctor may recommend an alternative contraceptive method.

• St John's wort: This herbal supplement can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.

• Lamotrigine: Combined hormonal contraceptives can reduce lamotrigine levels in the blood, potentially affecting seizure control in people taking it for epilepsy.

• Store Locipil Tablet according to the instructions on the product packaging.

• Keep the tablets in their original packaging until you are ready to take them.

• Protect the medicine from excessive heat and moisture.

• Keep Locipil Tablet out of the sight and reach of children.

• Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.

• Take Locipil Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Swallow the tablet with water. It can generally be taken with or without food.

• Take the tablet at approximately the same time every day to help maintain consistent hormone levels and avoid missed doses.

• Follow the order of the tablets and the schedule provided with your pack.

• For a 21-tablet pack, follow your doctor's instructions regarding the tablet-free interval and when to begin the next pack.

• If you miss a tablet, follow the instructions in the package leaflet. The action required depends on how late the tablet is and how many tablets you have missed.

• If you vomit soon after taking a tablet or experience severe diarrhoea, the medicine may not be fully absorbed. Follow the missed-dose instructions and seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor.

• Do not stop taking the medicine or change your schedule without medical advice.

Locipil Tablet may cause side effects in some people, although not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects

• Headache

• Nausea

• Abdominal discomfort

• Breast tenderness

• Changes in menstrual bleeding, including spotting between periods

• Mood changes

Some side effects may improve as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist, worsen or interfere with your daily activities.

Serious side effects

Although uncommon, combined hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk of serious complications, including blood clots.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing

• Painful swelling in one leg

• Sudden severe headache, vision changes or difficulty speaking

• Sudden weakness or numbness affecting one side of the body

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may indicate a liver problem

Do not ignore these symptoms, even if they develop after you have been taking the medicine for some time.

• Take Locipil Tablet at the same time every day to help you maintain your contraceptive schedule.

• Follow the instructions supplied with your specific pack, including the tablet-free interval, if applicable.

• Tell your doctor if you smoke, particularly if you are aged 35 or older, as smoking can increase cardiovascular risks associated with combined hormonal contraceptives.

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of blood clots, high blood pressure, migraine with aura, liver disease or breast cancer.

• Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking antibiotics, anti-epileptic medicines, herbal supplements or other medicines that may affect contraceptive effectiveness.

• If you miss a tablet, do not assume you are still protected. Follow the package instructions and use additional contraception when advised.

• Remember that Locipil Tablet does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

• Seek urgent medical attention if you develop symptoms that may indicate a blood clot, such as sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing or painful swelling in one leg.