Key takeaways
Norgestimate / ethinyl estradiol (Sprintec) and norethindrone acetate / ethinyl estradiol / ferrous fumarate (Lo Loestrin Fe) are both estrogen / progestin combined contraceptives used to prevent pregnancy. However, they differ in their formulation and dosing. Sprintec is a monophasic birth control, meaning all active tablets contain the same hormone dose, while Lo Loestrin Fe is biphasic, with varying hormone doses across the active tablets. Sprintec is taken as 21 active tablets followed by 7 placebo tablets, whereas Lo Loestrin Fe consists of 26 active tablets and 2 placebo tablets containing iron. Sprintec is available as a lower-cost generic, while Lo Loestrin Fe does not have a generic version. Other Sprintec brands include Estarylla, Femynor, and Mili, as well as Mono-Linyah. Common side effects for both Sprintec and Lo Loestrin FE include headaches, nausea, and irregular bleeding. Both medications carry risks of blood clots and should not be used by females over 35 who smoke. Additionally, Lo Loestrin Fe has specific interactions with medications like and thyroid hormone replacements, which may require dose adjustments.
