Xulane vs. Zafemy for Birth Control: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Xulane

(norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

Zafemy

(norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

Summary for Xulane

Prescription only

Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is a birth control patch that contains both estrogen and progesterone hormones. It works well to prevent pregnancy if you follow the instructions by applying a new patch once a week. Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is available for most people who can get pregnant, but it might not work as well for those who weigh more than 198 pounds or have a body mass index or BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher. The best places to apply the patch are the upper outer arm, stomach, buttock, or back. Common side effects include breast discomfort, headache, or application site reactions (such as rash or skin irritation).

Indications for Xulane

To prevent pregnancy

Pros and Cons for Xulane

Pros

Patch is applied once a week
99% effective at preventing pregnancy when used perfectly
Patch stayed on the skin for 95% of people in studies

Cons

Raises your risk for serious blood clots
More estrogen is absorbed compared to other combination birth control pills, which might cause more side effects
Might not work as well for people who weigh more than 198 pounds or have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher

Common Side Effects for Xulane

Breast symptoms (discomfort, swelling, or pain; 22%)
Headache (21%)
Skin irritation and redness (17%)
Nausea (17%)
Menstrual cramps (8%)
Stomach pain (8%)
Vaginal bleeding (6%)
Changes in mood (6%)
Vomiting (5%)

Warnings for Xulane

Cigarette smoking and risk for blood clots
Blood clots and strokes
Liver problems
High blood pressure
Gallbladder problems
High blood sugar and triglycerides
Headache
Irregular bleeding
Depression
Risk for breast and cervical cancer
Worsening of other health conditions

Summary for Zafemy

Prescription only

Zafemy (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is a birth control patch you apply to your skin once a week. It contains two hormones (estrogen and progesterone) that work together to prevent pregnancy. If you use it perfectly, it's 99% effective. You can place the patch on your upper arm, stomach, buttock, or back. But if you weigh more than 198 pounds or have a body mass index or BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher, it might not work as well. Some people might experience side effects like sore breasts, headaches, or a rash at the application site.

Indications for Zafemy

To prevent pregnancy

Pros and Cons for Zafemy

Pros

Patch is applied once a week
99% effective at preventing pregnancy when used perfectly
Patch stayed on the skin for 95% of people in studies

Cons

Raises your risk for serious blood clots
More estrogen is absorbed compared to other combination birth control pills, which might cause more side effects
Might not work as well for people who weigh more than 198 pounds or have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher