Viatris Birth Control (Formerly Mylan): What You Must Know!

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In a world where women’s reproductive health remains a paramount concern, the name ‘Viatris’ has become synonymous with choices, options, and empowerment. Formerly known as Mylan, this pharmaceutical giant stands at the forefront of providing birth control solutions that cater to the diverse needs of women across the globe. As we delve into this crucial subject, consider this eye-opening statistic: nearly 99% of sexually active women in the United States have used some form of contraception in their lifetime. But what do you truly know about Viatris’ birth control offerings, and how can they impact your reproductive health? This article unravels the vital details, statistics, and insights you need to make informed decisions about your reproductive well-being.”

Table of Contents

What Is Viatris (Mylan)?

Viatris is a global pharmaceutical and healthcare corporation headquartered in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. It was formed through the merger of Mylan and Upjohn, a legacy division of Pfizer, on November 16, 2020. The name Viatris comes from the Latin words “via,” meaning path, and “tris,” which means three, referring to the path to three main objectives the corporation set: expanding access to medicines, meeting patient needs through innovation, and earning the trust of the healthcare community.Viatris is committed to empowering people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life.

The company’s mission is to provide a path to expanding access to medicines, leading by innovating to meet patient needs, and being a trusted partner for the healthcare community worldwide. Viatris is more than just a place to work, as it brings together talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal.Some key facts about Viatris include:

Type: Public
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Headquarters: Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Area served: Worldwide
Key people: Michael Goettler (CEO)
Products: Generic and branded pharmaceuticals, biosimilars, over-the-counter products, and more
Revenue: US$16.26 billion (2022)
Number of employees: Approximately 38,000 (2022)

Viatris is committed to increasing access to quality medicines for patients when and where they need them. The company encourages people to learn more about its commitment to global health and its efforts to provide high-quality medicine to as many patients as possible.

What Types Of Birth Control Does Viatris Offer?

Viatris, formerly known as Mylan, offers several types of birth control, focusing primarily on pills and patches. Their range includes both brand-name and generic versions. Here’s a detailed overview:

Combination Birth Control Pills: These pills contain both progestin and estrogen. They work by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent fertilized eggs from implanting. The pills vary based on the type of progestin used, the dosage of hormones, and the consumption schedule.
Progestin-only Pills (Minipills): These are suitable for individuals who cannot take estrogen. They primarily work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining. They might also suppress ovulation, but not consistently.
Birth Control Patches (like Xulane): These patches are placed on the skin and release both estrogen and progestin into the bloodstream. They work similarly to combination pills.

What are possible side effects And Risks of Viatris?

Viatris birth control can have various side effects and risks. Some of the common side effects of Viatris birth control pills and patches, which contain both estrogen and progestin, include:

Bloating
Cramps
Breast tenderness
Nausea or vomiting
Weight changes (increase or decrease)
Menstrual bleeding-related side effects (breakthrough bleeding, spotting, heavier or lighter periods, and loss of period)

In addition to these side effects, there are some risks associated with taking combination hormonal birth control, such as Viatris birth control. These risks, as stated by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), include a slight increase in the risk of:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Heart attack
Stroke

It is important to note that all birth control medications, whether name brand or generic, have been found to be safe and effective by the FDA. However, there are certain conditions and situations in which you should not take Viatris birth control. These include:

High blood pressure
Seizures or epilepsy
Gallbladder disease
Diabetes
Irregular periods

How does Viatris interact with other medications?

Viatris, a pharmaceutical company, offers a variety of medicines, including birth control pills that contain both progestin and estrogen to prevent pregnancy. These pills may interact with certain medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or causing other adverse effects. Some of the medications that may interact with Viatris birth control pills include:

Antibiotics: Most antibiotics do not affect the effectiveness of birth control pills. However, rifampin, an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis and other infections, may cause irregular periods and increase the risk of pregnancy even when birth control pills are taken correctly.
Anti-HIV drugs: Some medications used to treat HIV may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. It is important to talk to a doctor about the best birth control option for individuals taking these medications.
Anti-fungal medications: Certain anti-fungal medications, such as griseofulvin, may increase the breakdown of hormones in birth control pills, potentially making them less effective. It is recommended to use an additional form of birth control if taking these medications.
Anti-seizure medications: Some anti-seizure medications, including carbamazepine, phenytoin, and topiramate, may also increase the breakdown of hormones in birth control pills, potentially reducing their effectiveness. It is advisable to use another form of birth control if taking these medications.
St. John’s wort: This herbal supplement may also decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. It is recommended to use an additional form of birth control if taking St. John’s wort.

How to get started on birth control?

Starting birth control can be a simple process, but it is important to know the different options and what to expect. Here are some tips on how to get started on birth control:

Talk to a healthcare provider: Before starting birth control, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about the different options available and which one is best for you. They can also provide information on how to use birth control correctly and answer any questions you may have.
Choose a start date: There are different options for when to start birth control pills, including the quick start method, Sunday start, and first-day start. The quick start method involves taking the first pill on the day you fill your prescription, while the Sunday start involves taking the first pill on the first Sunday after your period starts. The first-day start involves taking the first pill on the first day of your period. It is important to follow the instructions provided with your birth control pills or to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best start date for you.
Use backup contraception: Depending on where you are in your cycle when you begin and the type of pill you’re taking, you may need to use a backup method of birth control when you start the pill. It is important to follow the instructions provided with your birth control pills or to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if backup contraception is necessary.
Take the pill at the same time every day: It is important to take birth control pills at the same time every day to ensure their effectiveness. Some healthcare providers recommend taking the pill right before bed to help with consistency.

How effective are birth control pills and patches?

Birth control pills and patches are both effective methods of contraception that use hormones to prevent pregnancy. Here is a summary of their effectiveness based on the search results:Birth Control Patch:

If used perfectly, the patch is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
With typical use, the patch is about 91% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Certain factors, such as forgetting to change the patch or taking certain medications, can make the patch less effective.

Birth Control Pills:

If used perfectly, birth control pills are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
With typical use, birth control pills are about 91% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Certain factors, such as forgetting to take a pill or taking certain medications, can make birth control pills less effective.

How can you choose the right type of birth control?

Choosing the right type of birth control can be a personal decision that depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and health considerations. Here are some tips on how to choose the right type of birth control for you based on the search results:

Talk to a healthcare provider: A healthcare provider can provide information on the different types of birth control available and help determine which option is best for you based on your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences.
Partner involvement: It’s a good idea to have a conversation with your partner to make sure that both of you are comfortable with the birth control method you choose. Be sure to talk about getting tested for STDs and how you can stay safe.
Consider effectiveness: Different types of birth control have varying levels of effectiveness. It is important to choose a method that is effective at preventing pregnancy and fits your lifestyle.
Think about convenience: Some types of birth control require daily use, while others can last for several years. Consider how often you want to think about birth control and choose a method that fits your lifestyle.
Consider side effects: Different types of birth control can have different side effects. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about the potential side effects of each method and choose one that is right for you.
Future plans for children: If you are planning to have children in the near future, you may want to choose a reversible form of birth control, such as pills or patches. If you do not plan to have children or are done having children, a more permanent form of birth control, such as sterilization, may be an option to consider.
Consider non-contraceptive benefits: Some types of birth control can have non-contraceptive benefits, such as reducing acne or regulating periods. Consider these benefits when choosing a method.
Consider cost: The cost of birth control can vary depending on the method and insurance coverage. It is important to consider the cost of each method and choose one that is affordable for you.

What are some Other Birth Control options you might want to consider?

Some birth control options to consider include:

Barrier methods: Male and female condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps are all barrier methods that can be used to prevent pregnancy. These methods are non-hormonal and can also help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Hormonal methods: Birth control pills, patches, and vaginal rings all contain hormones that prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg. These methods require a prescription and should be taken or applied as directed by your healthcare provider.
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs): IUDs and implants are highly effective forms of birth control that can last for several years. IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus, while implants are small rods that are inserted under the skin of the arm. Both methods are reversible and can be removed by a healthcare provider if you decide you want to become pregnant.
Permanent methods: If you are certain that you do not want to have children or are done having children, sterilization may be an option to consider. Sterilization is a permanent form of birth control that involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes in women or the vas deferens in men, preventing sperm from reaching the egg.

Where can one get Viatris Birth Control?

Viatris birth control pills are available by prescription only. Here are some options for obtaining a prescription:

Healthcare provider: A healthcare provider, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, can prescribe birth control pills after a consultation and examination.
Local health clinic: Many local health clinics offer reproductive health services, including birth control prescriptions.
Planned Parenthood: Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that provides reproductive health services, including birth control prescriptions.
Pharmacist: In some states, pharmacists can prescribe and dispense birth control pills without a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Telehealth company: Depending on state laws, some telehealth companies, such as Nurx, Hers, or Lemonaid, can provide birth control prescriptions after a consultation with a healthcare provider.

Once a prescription is obtained, there are various ways to get it filled, including going to a local pharmacy or using a mail-order option. Some online services, such as Nurx, Hers, or Lemonaid, also offer delivery of birth control pills to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is generic birth control any less safe or effective than the more expensive or brand names?

No, generic birth control pills are just as safe and effective as brand-name drugs. They use the same active ingredients and must meet the same FDA requirements.

Why is generic birth control less expensive?

Generic birth control is more affordable because the pharmaceutical companies only have to pay for manufacturing, not for developing a new drug.

Does insurance cover birth control?

Yes, most insurance plans cover birth control, including both generic and brand-name options. Insurance providers typically use a tiered pricing system, with generic drugs being either completely covered or requiring the lowest co-pay.

How much does birth control cost?

The cost of birth control can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and the specific type of birth control. Generic birth control pills are generally less expensive than brand-name pills

Does taking birth control pills cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect of taking birth control pills. While some people may experience slight weight changes, it is often due to other factors such as fluid retention or lifestyle changes.

Conclusion

Mylan, now under the Viatris umbrella, is dedicated to providing a range of birth control options. Viatris manufactures a variety of combination and progestin-only generic birth control pills, along with the brand-name patch Xulane.

When it comes to choosing the right birth control method, the key is to have a conversation with your doctor. With a multitude of options available, finding the best fit for you hinges on your unique health history and specific needs. Don’t hesitate to discuss your options with a healthcare professional who can guide you towards the most suitable choice. Your reproductive health is important, and together with your doctor, you can make informed decisions that enhance your well-being.

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