Yaz vs. Lo Loestrin Fe for Birth Control: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Drospirenone / ethinyl estradiol (Yaz) and norethindrone acetate / ethinyl estradiol / ferrous fumarate (Lo Loestrin Fe) are both oral contraceptives used to prevent pregnancy. They belong to the estrogen / progestin combined contraceptive medication class. While both medications are effective in preventing pregnancy, Yaz is also FDA-approved to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and acne, whereas Lo Loestrin Fe is not. Yaz is a monophasic pill with 24 active hormone tablets and 4 placebo tablets, while Lo Loestrin Fe is biphasic, containing 26 active tablets and 2 placebo tablets with iron. Yaz has branded generic versions available, including Nikki, Jasmiel, and Lo-Zumandimine, while Lo Loestrin Fe does not have a lower-cost generic option. Common side effects of Yaz include nausea, headache, and weight gain, while Lo Loestrin Fe may cause nausea, headache, and irregular bleeding. Both medications can increase the risk of blood clots, especially if you smoke and are over 35 years old. It's important to take these medications as directed and discuss any concerns with your healthcare professional.

Yaz

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Lo Loestrin Fe

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Summary for Yaz

Prescription only

Yaz is a combination birth control pill taken daily to prevent pregnancy. It contains 2 medications: drospirenone (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). In addition to birth control, it's FDA approved to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and acne. Each 28-day pack contains 24 active hormone tablets and 4 placebo tablets. Possible side effects include nausea, headache, and weight gain.

Branded generics that are like the brand-name product Yaz include Nikki, Jasmiel, and Lo-Zumandimine.

Indications for Yaz

To prevent pregnancy
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Acne (in people 14 years and older who've started their periods)

Pros and Cons for Yaz

Pros

Taken by mouth once a day
91% effective at preventing pregnancy if used correctly
Also FDA approved to treat acne and PMDD

Cons

Raises the risk of serious blood clots
Can cause unpleasant side effects, like headache, nausea, and vomiting
Doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Common Side Effects for Yaz

Pregnancy prevention and acne:

Headache or migraine (7%)
Irregular menstrual bleeding (5%)
Nausea or vomiting (4%)
Breast pain or tenderness (4%)

PMDD:

Irregular menstrual bleeding (25%)
Nausea (16%)
Headache (13%)
Breast tenderness (11%)
Tiredness (4%)

Warnings for Yaz

Cigarette smoking and serious heart problems
Risk of blood clot
High potassium
Breast and cervical cancer
Liver problems
Gallbladder problems
High blood pressure
High blood sugar and triglycerides
Headache
Irregular bleeding
Depression
Worsening of other health conditions

Summary for Lo Loestrin Fe

Prescription only

Lo Loestrin Fe is a prescription birth control pill used to help prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones — ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and norethindrone (a progestin) — along with ferrous fumarate, which is an iron supplement. This low-dose combined oral contraceptive (COC) is taken once a day by mouth in a 28-day cycle: 26 days of active pills and 2 days of placebo pills. Some common side effects include spotting, nausea, and breast tenderness.