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Kariva Coupon - Kariva 28 tablets of 0.15mg/0.02mg/0.01mg package

desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol

Generic Kariva
Used for Birth Control
Used for Birth Control

Kariva is a combined oral contraceptive (COC) that's taken by mouth every day to prevent pregnancy. It contains 2 medications: desogestrel (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). Each 28-day pack of Kariva contains 26 active (hormone) pills and 2 placebo pills. It's a biphasic birth control, meaning the hormone level in the active pills changes partly through the pack. Some potential side effects of Kariva include nausea, cramps, and changes in body weight.

Kariva is a generic of the discontinued brand name Mircette. Other generics that are like Kariva include Azurette, Pimtrea, Viorele, and Volnea.

Last reviewed on September 2, 2024
basics-icon

What is Kariva?

What is Kariva used for?

How Kariva works

Kariva is a combined contraceptive that contains two hormones: ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and desogestrel (a progestin). These two hormones work together to help prevent pregnancy by:

  • Stopping ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary)

  • Changing cervical mucus to block sperm movement

  • Creating an unfriendly environment for the fertilized egg by changing the lining in the uterus (womb)

When does Kariva start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Drug ClassEstrogen / Progestin combined contraceptive
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$150.78(save 79.15%)
GoodRx discount
$31.43
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basics-icon

What are the side effects of Kariva?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Bloating
  • Spotting
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight changes (up or down)
  • Headache
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Depression

Other Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Depression and thoughts of self-harm
  • Heart attack: chest pain, stomach discomfort, sweating, nausea, dizziness
  • Stroke: sudden numbness or weakness in the arm, leg, or face, confusion, trouble seeing, headache, difficulty walking
  • Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in the leg): leg cramp, swelling, pain, muscle tightness
  • Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung): cough, chest pain, trouble breathing, racing heart
  • Serious liver problems: yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, tiredness, stomach pain
When do Kariva possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Nausea and vomiting
Spotting
Headache
Breast tenderness
Patchy skin color
Depression or changes in mood
Seek immediate medical care if you experience this side effect.
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

anxiety

change in vision

changes in skin color

chest pain or discomfort

chills

clay-colored stools

constipation

cough

dark urine

diarrhea

dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting

fever

hives or welts

itching skin or rash

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

nausea

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg

pains in the chest, groin, or legs, especially in the calves of the legs

severe headaches of sudden onset

slow or fast heartbeat

stomach pain

sudden loss of coordination or slurred speech

sudden troubled breathing

sweating

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

vomiting of blood

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

Bloating

blotchy spots on the exposed skin

breast enlargement or tenderness

feeling sad or empty

irritability

itching of the vagina or outside the genitals

loss of interest or pleasure

pain during sexual intercourse

thick, white curd-like vaginal discharge without odor or with mild odor

trouble wearing contact lenses

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Kariva

thumbs-up

Pros

Once-daily dosing

Less likely to cause changes in menstrual bleeding that monophasic birth controls

Available as many branded generics

thumbs-down

Cons

Must be taken in the exact order in your pill pack

Can cause unpleasant side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and headaches

Might worsen certain medical conditions, such as chloasma and hereditary angioedema

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Kariva

pharmacist
  • Set an alarm to help you remember to take Kariva at the same time every day. Forgetting to take your pill raises the chance of getting pregnant. If you miss a dose, refer to the label or call your HCP for further instructions.

    • It's normal to have spotting (light bleeding outside of your period) or feel sick to your stomach for the first few packs of Kariva. This should get better over time, but if it doesn't contact your prescriber.

      • If you have vomiting or diarrhea, or take certain medications, Kariva might not work as well for you. Always use a non-hormonal birth control as back-up until you're able to check with your HCP.

        • If you wear contact lenses and notice vision changes or dry eyes while taking Kariva, see your optometrist to get an exam. Though not common, taking birth controls can lead to eye-related side effects.

          • Kariva can lower the amount of breast milk you're able to produce and isn't recommended during breastfeeding. If you're breastfeeding, ask your HCP about alternative birth control options.

            • There might be a delay in getting pregnant after taking Kariva. It's recommended to wait until you have regular menstrual cycles again after stopping Kariva before you try to get pregnant. Talk with your HCP if you have questions about getting pregnant after stopping Kariva.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Kariva

              Is Kariva a low-dose birth control?
              Low-dose birth control is a COC that contains 20 mcg of ethinyl estradiol (estrogen) or less. Kariva is a low-dose birth control because the active pills contain either 10 mcg or 20 mcg of ethinyl estradiol, depending on where you are in the cycle.
              Is Kariva a combination pill?
              Yes. Kariva is a combined oral contraceptive that contains desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. But not all active pills in the pack have both hormones. Some of them only have estrogen, and others don't have any hormones at all. Follow the instructions inside of the package carefully, since the tablets must be taken in a specific order.
              How effective is Kariva birth control?
              Around 1 in 100 females become pregnant after taking Kariva with perfect use. This means that this birth control is about 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if you take it daily around the same time each day. But your chance of getting pregnant is higher if you don't take it as directed. If you're having trouble remembering to take your pill and want to consider other birth control options, talk to your healthcare professional (HCP).
              Can Kariva stop your period?
              It's possible for Kariva to stop your period. Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, including skipped periods, are common side effects of birth control pills. But missing a period might also mean you're pregnant. If you miss your period, take a pregnancy test or check in with your healthcare team about next steps.
              Does Kariva cause weight gain?
              People who take COCs, including Kariva, have reported weight gain. But it's unclear if the change in body weight is caused by the birth control or by other factors. In general, people who take COC are more likely to have weight gain from water retention, rather than from an increase in body fat. But not everyone will experience weight gain; some people reported weight loss as well. If weight changes concern you, speak with your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) or healthcare professional (HCP).
              Are Kariva and Viorele the same?
              Kariva and Viorele can be thought of as generics of one another. Both Kariva and are COCs that contain the same doses of the same hormones (desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol). They're both branded generics of a brand-name birth control pill called Mircette that's no longer available. The colors of the tablets might look different between Kariva and Viorele, but they work similarly well at preventing pregnancy.
              Is Kariva still available?
              Yes, you can get Kariva with a prescription from your HCP.
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              warings-icon

              What are the risks and warnings for Kariva?

              Kariva can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Cigarette smoking and serious heart problems

              • Risk factors: Females over 35 years old who smoke cigarettes

                If you smoke cigarettes, using combined oral contraceptives (COCs), like Kariva, raises your risk for serious health problems, such as strokes, heart attacks, and blood clots. Females age 35 years and older who smoke are at even higher risk for these problems. If you smoke, talk with your prescriber about safer birth control alternatives.

                risk-warning

                Blood clots and strokes

                • Risk factors: Females over 35 years old who smoke | Females over 40 years old who don't smoke | Recent surgery with a long period of bed rest | Starting Kariva less than a month after childbirth | High blood pressure | People identified as obese | High cholesterol | Diabetes | Higher dose of estrogen

                  Kariva raises your risk of blood clots. These clots can occur anywhere in your body, including your lungs (pulmonary embolism or PE), legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT), brain (stroke), and heart (heart attack). Get emergency help right away if you have any signs of a blood clot:

                  • Brain: weakness or numbness in your arms, legs, or face on one side of the body, trouble speaking, blurred vision, dizziness, loss of balance, trouble walking, or confusion

                    • Eyes: trouble seeing, bulging eye, double vision

                      • Heart: chest pain, sweating, nausea, or dizziness

                        • Lungs: trouble breathing, chest pain, or cough

                          • Legs: cramps, swelling, pain, or muscle tightness

                            If you need to have surgery, tell your prescriber you're taking Kariva. They might have you stop taking it 4 weeks before until 2 weeks after your surgery to lower your risk of blood clots.

                            risk-warning

                            Risk of breast and cervical cancer

                            • Risk factors: History of breast cancer | Taking COCs for a long time

                              Study results are mixed, but there's a possibility that Kariva and other COCs can raise your risk for breast and cervical cancer.

                              Don't use Kariva if you have breast cancer because some types of breast cancer grow faster in the presence of estrogen, an ingredient in this birth control pill. To help with early breast cancer detection, you can do monthly breast self-checks at home and yearly breast exams with your healthcare professional. Call your HCP if you notice any abnormal changes or feel lumps, pain, or swelling in your breasts.

                              Get medical help right away if you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pain during sex, since these could be signs of cervical cancer.

                              risk-warning

                              Liver problems

                              • Risk factors: Liver problems or infection in the liver | Taking a COC for 8 years or longer

                                Though rare, Kariva can cause liver problems, such as liver damage and liver tumors. These problems are linked more with earlier formulations of COCs that contained higher doses of estrogen (50 mcg or higher), and less so with Kariva since it only contains up to 20 mcg of estrogen. Don't use this medication if you already have liver problems. Call your HCP right away if you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as tiredness, stomach pain, or yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes.

                                risk-warning

                                High blood sugar and triglycerides

                                • Risk factors: Prediabetes or diabetes | Personal or family history of high triglycerides | High dose

                                  COCs like Kariva might raise your blood sugar and triglyceride (fat) levels. If you have diabetes, let your prescriber know if you experience any changes in your blood sugar. Make sure to go to all of your check-ups so your prescriber can monitor any changes.

                                  risk-warning

                                  High blood pressure

                                  • Risk factors: High blood pressure | Older age | Using COCs for a long time | Kidney problems

                                    Kariva and other COCs can raise your blood pressure. Your HCP might ask you to check your blood pressure regularly. If you notice your blood pressure is higher while you're taking this medication, contact your HCP. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, Kariva might not be the best option for you.

                                    risk-warning

                                    Headache

                                    Headaches are a common side effect of COCs like Kariva. This is likely caused by changes in estrogen levels and tends to get better after a few months. But, if you experience a new migraine, a migraine that's worse than normal, or a new headache that keeps coming back or is severe, call your prescriber so you can be checked out.

                                    risk-warning

                                    Irregular bleeding

                                    Breakthrough bleeding and spotting are common side effects of hormonal birth control pills. This is more common during the first 3 months of using Kariva. Let your prescriber know if you experience any vaginal bleeding outside of your period, or if your period has stopped completely. There are other causes besides your birth control pills for irregular bleeding that your prescriber will evaluate.

                                    risk-warning

                                    Depression

                                    • Risk factors: History of depression

                                      Let your prescriber know if you experience symptoms of depression or worsening depression while taking Kariva. Some people start to notice mood changes within weeks of starting this medication. In cases of serious depression, your prescriber might have you stop taking it.

                                      risk-warning

                                      Gallbladder problems

                                      Some studies suggest that Kariva can raise the risk of gallbladder disease since more progestin and estrogen can lead to higher chance of gallstones. Although the risk is low, talk to your gynecologist if you a history of gallbladder disease before starting Kariva.

                                      risk-warning

                                      Interactions with other medications

                                      Certain medications can make Kariva get broken down faster in your body, making it less effective and can lead to pregnancy. Some examples include carbamazepine (Tegretol) and phenytoin (Dilantin). Use a back-up method or other form of birth control for at least 28 days after stopping any of these medications. Other medications can raise the amount of Kariva in your body, which can lead to more side effects. Make sure to tell your prescriber or pharmacist all of your medications so they can make sure they don't interact with Kariva.

                                      If you're taking medications to treat hepatitis C, immediately let your HCP know that you're taking a COC. Certain hepatitis C medications can affect the level of Kariva in your body, either making it work not as well in preventing pregnancy or raising your risk of side effects. Your healthcare team can give you instructions about what to do if you're taking a hepatitis C medication that can interact with Kariva.

                                      dosage

                                      Kariva dosage forms

                                      The average cost for 3 packages of 28 tablets of 0.15mg/0.02mg/0.01mg of Kariva is $31.43 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 79.15% off the average retail price of $150.78.
                                      package
                                      Package
                                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                      28 tablets of 0.15mg/0.02mg/0.01mg3 packages$31.43$10.48

                                      Typical dosing for Kariva

                                      Kariva (and other branded generics) comes in a 28-day pack. Your medication might look different depending on which branded generic your healthcare professional (HCP) prescribes. Please take the medication as instructed by your HCP or by following the directions on the package.

                                      There are 26 active tablets and they contain different dosages of desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. In general:

                                      • Day 1 through 21: 0.15 mg desogestrel and 20 mcg ethinyl estradiol

                                      • Day 22 through 23: Placebo tablets (hormone-free)

                                      • Day 24 through 28: 10 mcg ethinyl estradiol only

                                      The typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth at the same time every day. Tablets must be taken in the exact order of the blister pack.

                                      interactions

                                      Interactions between Kariva and other drugs

                                      Kariva may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Kariva. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                      contraindications-icon

                                      Kariva contraindications

                                      Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Kariva will not be safe for you to take.
                                      • History of DVT or other blood clotting problems

                                      • Coronary artery disease

                                      • Cerebrovascular disease (problems with blood flow in the brain)

                                      • Currently have or have a history of breast cancer

                                      • Endometrial cancer or other estrogen-dependent cancer growth

                                      • Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding

                                      • Currently have or have a history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

                                      • Liver tumors

                                      • Pregnancy

                                      • Receiving hepatitis C medication containing ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir

                                      alternatives

                                      What are alternatives to Kariva?

                                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Kariva. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                      Kariva
                                      Used for:
                                      $31.43 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                      Used for:
                                      • To prevent pregnancy

                                      $29.53 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                      Used for:
                                      $29.10 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                      images

                                      Kariva images

                                      Blue Round Dp And 022 - Kariva 28-Day 0.02mg-0.15mg Tablet
                                      This medicine is Blue, Round Package Imprinted With "Dp" And "022".Blue Round Dp And 022 - Kariva 28-Day 0.02mg-0.15mg Tablet
                                      Blue Round Dp And 022 - Kariva 28-Day 0.02mg-0.15mg Tablet
                                      This medicine is Blue, Round Package Imprinted With "Dp" And "022".Blue Round Dp And 022 - Kariva 28-Day 0.02mg-0.15mg Tablet

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                                      References

                                      Best studies we found

                                      Allais, G., et al. (2009). Headache induced by the use of combined oral contraceptives. Neurological Sciences.

                                      Barr, N.G. (2010). Managing Adverse Effects of Hormonal Contraceptives. American Family Physician.

                                      Bolanca, I., et al. (2008). Chloasma--the mask of pregnancy. Collegium Antropologicum.

                                      View All References (11)

                                      Cortés, M. E., et al. (2014). The effects of hormonal contraceptives on glycemic regulation. The Linacre Quarterly.

                                      Etminan, M., et al. (2011). Oral contraceptives and the risk of gallbladder disease: A comparative safety study. Canadian Medical Association Journal

                                      Hannaford, P. C., et al. (1997). Combined oral contraceptives and liver disease. Contraception.

                                      International Agency for Research on Cancer. (2012). Combined estrogen-progesterogen contraceptives. Pharmaceuticals.

                                      Latwal, B., et al. (2020). Authorized generics vs. branded generics: A perspective. Journal of Generic Medicines: The Business Journal for the Generic Medicines Sector.

                                      Mu, E., et al. (2022). Hormonal contraception and mood disorders. Australian Prescriber.

                                      National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). Estrogens and oral contraceptives. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury.

                                      Resnik, S.S. (1967). Melasma and other skin manifestations or oral contraceptives. Trans N Engl Obstet Gynecol Soc.

                                      Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. (2024). Kariva- desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol and ethinyl estradiol [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                      Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. (2024). Kariva- desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol and ethinyl estradiol kit [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                      Walsh, J.W., et al. (1996). Progesterone and estrogen are potential mediators of gastric slow-wave dysrhythmias in nausea of pregnancy. American Journal of Physiology.

                                      GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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