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ogestrel
Ogestrel is a combined hormonal birth control pill that's taken by mouth every day. It's a monophasic birth control, meaning all of the active pills contain the same doses of estrogen and norgestrel. This medication, along with its equivalent brand-name medication Ovral, has been discontinued and is no longer available in the United States.
Last reviewed on July 21, 2022
What is Ogestrel?
What is Ogestrel used for?
To prevent pregnancy
How Ogestrel works
Are you looking for information on Cryselle (norgestrel / ethinyl estradiol) monophasic instead?
Drug Facts
Common BrandsOgestrel, Ovral (both brands no longer available)
Drug ClassEstrogen / Progestin combined contraceptive
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityDiscontinued
Frequently asked questions about Ogestrel
What is Ogestrel?
Ogestrel is a combined hormonal birth control pill that contains two hormones, ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and norgestrel (a progestin), that work together to prevent pregnancy. It's a monophasic birth control and is taken by mouth every day.
What makes Ogestrel different from other birth control pills?
One thing that makes Ogestrel different from other birth control pills is that it contain a higher dose of estrogen compared with newer birth control pills. Higher doses of estrogen can lead to more side effects, and raise your risk for blood clots. Today, many combined hormonal birth control pills contain a lower dose of estrogen (10 mcg to 35 mcg).
Is Ogestrel still available?
No, Ogestrel has been discontinued and is no longer available in the United States.
Why was Ogestrel discontinued?
It isn't clear why Ogestrel was discontinued. But, it wasn't due to safety reasons or because it didn't work well to prevent pregnancy. Generally, people are moving away from using combination birth control pills with an ethinyl estradiol dose of 50 mcg or higher, possibility because of the higher risk of clots. Today, most birth control pills in the United States contain less that 50 mcg of ethinyl estradiol.
What birth control pill can I take instead of Ogestrel?
There are many birth control pill options available today. Which birth control pill you choose can depend on things like what other health conditions you might have, side effects, and whether or not you want to go for a longer time without getting your period. Your provider will guide you to the best option based on your individual needs or preferences. Speak with your provider about the different options available.
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What are alternatives to Ogestrel?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Ogestrel. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
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