Aviane Birth Control: It Won’t Let You Down?

If you’re exploring birth control options, you’ve likely come across Aviane. Perhaps you’re wondering, “Is Aviane the right choice for me?” This blog post aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview of Aviane birth control, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll delve into its effectiveness, potential side effects, how to use it, user reviews, and more. So, let’s embark on this journey of discovery together.

What is Aviane Birth Control?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of Aviane, let’s start with the basics. Aviane Birth Control is a combination hormone medication used to prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones: a progestin (levonorgestrel) and an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). Besides preventing pregnancy, Aviane may also make periods more regular, decrease blood loss and painful periods, decrease the risk of ovarian cysts, and treat acne.

Aviane comes in two forms: Aviane 21 and Aviane 28. Aviane 21 contains 21 active pills, while Aviane 28 contains 21 active pills and 7 placebo/sugar pills. The recommended dosage is one pill every 24 hours, taken at the same time every day.

Aviane is available by prescription and can be obtained from a healthcare provider or a pharmacy.

What is the generic form of Aviane?

Aviane is a brand name for a combination oral contraceptive that contains levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. There is no lower-cost generic available for Aviane.

How does the Aviane birth control pill work?

The pill works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation), making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus, and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. 

How much estrogen is in Aviane?

The amount of estrogen in Aviane is 0.02 mg (20 mcg) of ethinyl estradiol.

How effective is Aviane?

Aviane is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly. This means that fewer than 1 out of 100 people who use it will become pregnant during the first year of use.

How safe is Aviane birth control pill?

Aviane birth control pills are generally considered safe and effective when used as directed. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects and may interact with other drugs. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have before starting Aviane.

What are possible side effects of Aviane?

Possible side effects of Aviane may include:

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, headache, bloating, breast tenderness, swelling of the ankles/feet (fluid retention), or weight change may occur. Vaginal bleeding between periods (spotting) or missed/irregular periods may occur, especially during the first few months of use.
• High Blood Pressure: This medication may raise your blood pressure. It’s essential to check your blood pressure regularly and inform your doctor if the results are high.
• Serious Side Effects: In rare cases, Aviane may lead to serious side effects, including lumps in the breast, mental/mood changes (such as new/worsening depression), severe stomach/abdominal pain, unusual changes in vaginal bleeding (such as continuous spotting, sudden heavy bleeding, missed periods), dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes/skin.
• Blood Clots: Aviane may rarely cause serious problems from blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or stroke. Seek immediate medical help if you experience symptoms like chest/jaw/left arm pain, confusion, sudden dizziness/fainting, pain/swelling/warmth in the groin/calf, trouble speaking, sudden shortness of breath/rapid breathing, unusual headaches, unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body, or vision problems/changes.
• Allergic Reactions: While very rare, a serious allergic reaction to this drug can occur. If you notice symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, seek immediate medical assistance.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you experience any other unusual effects not mentioned here, it’s crucial to contact your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, if you have concerns about any side effects, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance and advice. In case of severe or persistent side effects, seek prompt medical attention.

Remember that this medication is prescribed because your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risks of potential side effects. Most individuals who use this medication do not experience serious side effects. If you are in the United States, you can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

How does Aviane interact with other medications?

Aviane birth control may interact with other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness and increasing the risk of serious side effects. It’s important to be aware of these interactions and to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Here are some key points regarding how Aviane may interact with other drugs:

• Aromatase Inhibitors: Medications like anastrozole and exemestane (aromatase inhibitors) may interact with Aviane.
• Fezolinetant and Ospemifene: These drugs can also interact with Aviane.
• Tamoxifen: Aviane may have interactions with tamoxifen.
• Tizanidine: The use of tizanidine alongside Aviane may lead to interactions.
• Tranexamic Acid: This drug may interact with Aviane.
• Certain Hepatitis C Medications: Some combination products used to treat chronic hepatitis C, such as ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir with or without dasabuvir, may interact with Aviane.
• Drugs that Reduce Hormonal Birth Control’s Effectiveness: Several medications can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control, potentially leading to a higher risk of pregnancy. These include griseofulvin, modafinil, rifamycins (such as rifampin, rifabutin), ritonavir, St. John’s wort, drugs used to treat seizures (such as barbiturates, carbamazepine, felbamate, phenytoin, primidone, topiramate), and some HIV drugs (like nelfinavir and nevirapine).

It’s crucial to inform your doctor whenever you start a new medication, as they can assess potential interactions and advise on the need for additional reliable birth control methods. If you experience any new spotting or breakthrough bleeding while taking Aviane, this may indicate that your birth control is not working effectively, and you should consult your healthcare provider.

Moreover, Aviane may interfere with certain laboratory tests, such as blood clotting factors and thyroid tests, potentially leading to false results. Therefore, it’s important to inform lab personnel and all your healthcare providers that you are using Aviane to ensure accurate test results.

What precautions to take before taking Aviane?

Before taking Aviane birth control, it’s essential to take several precautions and discuss your medical history and potential allergies with your healthcare provider. Here are the precautions to consider:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any estrogens (such as ethinyl estradiol, mestranol) or any progestins (such as norethindrone, desogestrel), or if you have any other allergies. Some inactive ingredients in this product may cause allergic reactions.
• Medical History: Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of blood clots (e.g., in the legs, eyes, or lungs), blood clotting disorders (such as protein C or protein S deficiency), high blood pressure, abnormal breast exams, cancer (especially endometrial or breast cancer), high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, depression, diabetes, a family or personal history of a certain swelling disorder (angioedema), gallbladder problems, severe headaches/migraines, heart problems (such as heart valve disease, irregular heartbeat, or a previous heart attack), a history of yellowing of the eyes/skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or while using hormonal birth control, kidney disease, liver disease (including tumors), obesity, stroke, swelling (edema), thyroid problems, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.
• Diabetes: If you have diabetes, this medication may affect your blood sugar. Monitor your blood sugar regularly as directed and inform your doctor of any symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
• Chewable Tablets: If you are using chewable tablets, be aware that they may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Exercise caution if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit or avoid these substances in your diet.
• Surgery or Prolonged Immobility: Inform your doctor if you have recently had or will be having surgery or if you will be confined to a bed or chair for an extended period, such as a long plane flight. These conditions can increase the risk of blood clots, especially when using hormonal birth control. You may need to discontinue this medication for a period or take special precautions.
• Sun Exposure: Aviane may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma). Sunlight can exacerbate this effect, so limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Vision Changes: If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may experience vision problems or have trouble wearing your contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor if these issues arise.
• Fertility After Discontinuation: It may take some time for you to become pregnant after stopping birth control pills. Consult your doctor if you have concerns in this regard.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aviane should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately. If you have recently given birth or experienced a pregnancy loss/abortion after the first three months, discuss reliable forms of birth control with your doctor and determine when it is safe to start using birth control that contains estrogen. Additionally, Aviane may reduce breast milk production and a small amount can pass into breast milk, potentially affecting a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

How is Aviane Birth Control used?

Aviane Birth Control is typically used as an oral contraceptive, and it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and the provided guidelines for its proper usage. Here are the steps for using Aviane effectively:

1. Read the Patient Information Leaflet: Before starting to use Aviane, make sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. This leaflet contains essential information about when to take your pills and what to do if you miss a dose. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
2. Take It Daily: Aviane is taken by mouth, as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Select a time of day that is convenient for you and take your pill at the same time each day. Consistency in the timing of your doses is critical for the pill’s effectiveness.
3. Chewable Tablet Instructions: If you are using the chewable tablet version, you can either swallow it whole or chew it thoroughly and then swallow it. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions specific to your brand.
4. Follow the Package Instructions: With some birth control pill brands, the amount of estrogen and progestin in each active tablet varies at different times during the cycle. It is essential to adhere to the package instructions. Start with the first tablet in the pack and take them in the correct order, without skipping any doses. Missing pills, starting a new pack late, or taking your pill at a different time of the day than usual can increase the risk of pregnancy.
5. Vomiting or Diarrhea: If you experience vomiting or diarrhea shortly after taking the pill, it may affect the pill’s effectiveness. In such cases, you may need to use a backup birth control method, like condoms or spermicide. Consult the Patient Information Leaflet and speak with your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions.
6. Timing to Minimize Side Effects: Taking Aviane after your evening meal or at bedtime can help reduce stomach upset or nausea. You may choose another time of day that is more convenient for you, but consistency in the timing is essential. Regardless of the dosing schedule you follow, it’s crucial to take the medication at the same time each day, with a 24-hour interval.
7. 21-Day or 28-Day Cycle: Your pill pack contains 21 pills with active medication and may also include 7 reminder pills with no medication. Take one active pill (containing hormones) daily for 21 consecutive days. If your product has 28 tablets, take an inactive pill (with no medication) daily for 7 days following the last active pill unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If you have a product with 21 tablets, do not take any tablets for 7 days unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Your period should occur during the fourth week of the cycle. After taking the last inactive tablet or after 7 days without an active tablet, start a new pack the next day, whether or not you have your period. If you do not get your period, consult your doctor.
8. Starting Aviane for the First Time: If you are beginning to use Aviane for the first time and are not switching from another form of hormonal birth control (e.g., patch or other birth control pills), start by taking the first tablet in the pack on the first Sunday following the start of your menstrual period or on the first day of your period. If your period begins on a Sunday, begin taking this medication on that day. For the first cycle of use only, it’s advisable to use an additional form of non-hormonal birth control (e.g., condoms or spermicide) for the first 7 days to prevent pregnancy until the medication has enough time to work. If you start on the first day of your period, you do not need to use backup birth control during the first week.
9. Switching from Other Hormonal Birth Control: If you are transitioning from other forms of hormonal birth control (e.g., patch or other birth control pills) to Aviane, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on how to switch. If you have any uncertainties, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet or speak with your healthcare provider.

What should someone do if they miss a dose?

If someone misses a dose of Aviane Birth Control, they should refer to the patient information leaflet provided by their pharmacist for instructions on what to do. The instructions may vary depending on how many pills were missed and at what point in the cycle the pills were missed.

In general, if someone misses one active pill, they should take it as soon as they remember and take the next pill at the usual time. This means they might take two pills in one day. If they miss two active pills in a row during the first two weeks of the cycle, they should take two pills on the day they remember and two pills the next day, then take one pill a day until they finish the pack.

If they miss two active pills in a row during the third week of the cycle or three or more pills at any time during the cycle, they should safely dispose of the current pack and start a new pack the same day.

They should also use a second method of birth control if they have sex in the seven days after they missed the pills. It is important to note that missing pills can increase the risk of becoming pregnant.

Can Aviane cause weight gain?

There are mixed reviews on whether Aviane Birth Control causes weight gain. Some users have reported weight gain while taking Aviane, while others have not experienced any weight gain. However, there is no clear evidence that using a combined birth control pill like Aviane causes weight gain or loss. It is important to note that weight gain can be caused by a variety of factors, including lifestyle changes, diet, and genetics, and it may not necessarily be related to the use of Aviane Birth Control.

What are Aviane pill alternatives?

Aviane is a combination hormonal birth control pill used to prevent pregnancy. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. If someone is looking for alternatives to Aviane, they should speak with their healthcare provider. Here are some possible alternatives to Aviane:

• Lo Loestrin Fe
• NuvaRing
• Sprintec
• Depo-Provera
• Norethindrone
• Yaz
• Mirena
• Nexplanon
• Lutera (generic equivalent of Aviane)

Where can one get Aviane Birth Control?

Aviane birth control can be obtained from various sources, including:

• Pharmacies: Aviane is available at most pharmacies, but it requires a prescription from a doctor. Some pharmacies where you can find Aviane include CVS and Walgreens.
• Online platforms: Websites like Pandia Health and Nurx offer Aviane and its generic equivalent, Lutera, for as low as $0 with insurance or as little as $20 without insurance. These platforms require a prescription, which can be obtained through an online consultation with a healthcare provider.
• Amazon Pharmacy: Aviane 28 Day Pack is available for purchase on Amazon Pharmacy, and you can transfer your prescription to this platform.
• Your Doctors Online: You can get an Aviane prescription online by connecting with a doctor through Your Doctors Online. The online doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms to determine if Aviane is the right birth control option for you.

what is the cost of aviane birth control?

The cost of Aviane birth control varies depending on the pharmacy and whether or not you have insurance. Here are some estimated costs based on the search results:

• With insurance: If you have insurance, the cost of Aviane can be as low as $0 with platforms like Pandia Health and Nurx. The cost may also be covered by your insurance plan, but it’s best to check with your provider to confirm.
• Without insurance: If you don’t have insurance, the cost of Aviane can range from $20 to $65 for a pack of 168 tablets, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Some pharmacies where you can find Aviane include CVS and Walgreens.

What are some User reviews about Aviane?

Here are some user reviews of Aviane Oral Birth Control from WebMD:

Review 1:

• Age: 25-34
• Condition: Birth Control
• Overall Rating: 2.7
• Effectiveness: 2.7
• Ease of Use: 2.7
• Satisfaction: 2.7
• Comment: This birth control caused horrible suicidal depression for me. I didn’t realize it was the pill, so it lasted about 3 months. The depression immediately resolved when I stopped taking the pills. I am able to take other birth control pills, but not this one.

Review 2:

• Age: 19-24
• Condition: Birth Control
• Overall Rating: 2.7
• Effectiveness: 2.7
• Ease of Use: 2.7
• Satisfaction: 2.7
• Comment: I came off of Lo loestrin fe and switched to Aviane. The first month was okay, and then the next 2 months were horrid. I only went two weeks without bleeding, and it caused a flare-up. I’ve never had a problem with vaginitis, and I’ve constantly had burning and bleeding since using this medication. Everyone’s body is different. To each his own.

Review 3:

• Age: 19-24
• Condition: Disease of Ovaries with Cysts
• Overall Rating: 1.0
• Effectiveness: 1.0
• Ease of Use: 1.0
• Satisfaction: 1.0
• Comment: I was diagnosed with ovarian cyst, I was eventually put on these birth control pills and I immediately felt irritable, was very emotional, had breakthrough bleeding. I continued to take it, because I thought eventually it would go away. I was just admitted to the hospital for 3 days due to the pill. I had every side effect you can think of. I highly recommend doing research on this pill, because what I felt I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.

Review 4:

• Age: 19-24
• Condition: Birth Control
• Overall Rating: 4.0
• Effectiveness: 4.0
• Ease of Use: 4.0
• Satisfaction: 4.0
• Comment: I was previously on Alysena 28 for about 5.5 years but was recently switched (about 6 months ago) to Aviane 28 because it was the one my new pharmacy had. I assumed the switch would not really make a difference (I think the pills are very similar?), and I didn’t really know what to expect since the reviews are quite mixed. However, I don’t think I’m a fan of Aviane 28. For birth control, regulating my period, etc., it’s fine and easy to use. However, since taking it, I have noticed my weight increased.

Review 5:

• Age: 19-24
• Condition: Abnormally Long or Heavy Periods
• Overall Rating: 5.0
• Effectiveness: 5.0
• Ease of Use: 5.0
• Satisfaction: 5.0
• Comment: This is the best birth control I’ve ever used. I didn’t want to try the pill again because last time I did I ended up suicidal and had so much acne + weight gain. After 6 years, I decided to give it a try because I don’t want the implant or IUD, and I’m so glad I did. I haven’t gained weight, no acne, and no mood swings! I have literally no negative side effects. Definitely give it a try! It’s been amazing for me.

How to store and handle Aviane Birth Control?

To store and handle Aviane birth control, follow these guidelines:

• Storage: Keep Aviane at room temperature, in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture, or light. The dispenser should be kept in the wallet supplied to avoid possible fading of the pills. If the pills fade, continue to take them as directed.
• Taking the first dose: The patient should be instructed to begin taking Aviane on either the first Sunday after the onset of menstruation (Sunday Start) or on Day 1 of menstruation (Day 1 Start). If medication is begun later than day one of the first menstrual cycle or postpartum, contraceptive reliance should not be placed on Aviane until after the first 7 consecutive days of administration, and a nonhormonal back-up method of birth control should be used during those 7 days.
• Taking the pill: Take Aviane at the same time every day to help prevent pregnancy. If you take your pill late or miss a pill, the drug becomes less effective. In these cases, use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for the next 7 days.
• Informing your doctor: If you see a different doctor, inform them that you are taking Aviane birth control pills. Additionally, always tell your doctor about other medications that you’re on before you start taking Aviane, as certain drugs can make your birth control less effective.

Conclusion

Aviane birth control offers a convenient and highly effective means of preventing pregnancy. It has been a trusted choice for many women, providing not only contraception but also potential benefits like regulating periods and managing certain health conditions. However, it’s essential to remember that, like any medication, Aviane can have side effects and may not be suitable for everyone.

When considering Aviane or any oral contraceptive, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your individual health, lifestyle, and specific needs to help you make the right decision. Your doctor will also guide you on the best practices for taking Aviane to maximize its contraceptive effectiveness and minimize potential side effects.

Remember, birth control is a highly personal choice, and what works well for one person may not be the best option for another. It’s important to stay informed, ask questions, and work closely with your healthcare provider to find the birth control method that aligns with your goals and priorities while keeping your health and safety in focus.

In your journey to make an informed decision about Aviane or any other birth control method, we hope this article has been a valuable resource. Your well-being and reproductive choices are essential, and we wish you the best in making the choice that suits you best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

Here are the reference links used to create this article:

• https://reference.medscape.com/drug/altavera-seasonique-levonorgestrel-oral-ethinyl-estradiol-342762[1]
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=8f88b17a-5d0e-448a-8a60-f49c28ba6dfb[2]
• https://www.amazon.com/Aviane-28-Day-Pack/dp/B08K3JZJZJ[3]
• https://www.goodrx.com/aviane
• https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-pill/how-do-i-use-the-birth-control-pill
• https://yourdoctors.online/online-prescription-for-aviane/
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20940/aviane-oral/details[4]
• https://www.drugs.com/aviane.html[5]
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levonorgestrel-and-ethinyl-estradiol-oral-route/description/drg-20406441[6]