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Xulane Coupon - Xulane 3 patches of 150mcg/35mcg package

norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol

Generic Xulane
Used for Birth Control
Used for Birth Control

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).

Last reviewed on February 5, 2025
basics-icon

What is Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

What is Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) used for?

How Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) works

Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is a combination of two hormones: norelgestromin (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). 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)

Are you looking for information on Zafemy (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsXulane
Drug ClassEstrogen replacement / Progestin
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) essentials

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What are the side effects of Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

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

  • 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%)

Other Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Migraine
  • Feeling tired
  • Acne
  • Itching
  • Vaginal yeast infection
  • Weight gain

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • 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
  • Liver problems: yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, tiredness, stomach pain

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:

More common

Body aches or pain

chills

cough

difficulty with breathing

ear congestion

fever

headache

loss of voice

nasal congestion

runny nose

sneezing

sore throat

unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

Anxiety

changes in skin color

chest pain or discomfort

confusion

dark urine

diarrhea

dizziness

eye pain

fainting

inability to speak

itching

lack or loss of appetite

light-colored stools

lightheadedness

nausea

numbness in the hands

pain in the stomach

pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves

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

pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg

pounding in the ears

rash

seizures

slow or fast heartbeat

slurred speech

sudden headache

sudden loss of coordination

sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arm or leg on one side of the body

sweating

swelling, pain, or tenderness in the upper abdominal or stomach area

temporary blindness

unpleasant breath odor

vision changes

vomiting of blood

yellow eyes or skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Unusual vaginal bleeding in women

vomiting

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:

More common

Burning, itching, or redness of the skin

menstrual cramps

pain, soreness, swelling, or discharge from the breast or breasts

swelling or soreness at the patch site

Incidence not known

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

bloody vaginal discharge

brown, blotchy spots on exposed skin

change in amount of vaginal discharge

change in menstrual flow

decreased amount of breast milk

discouragement

dry mouth

feeling sad or empty

increase or decrease in weight

increased hunger or thirst

increased urination

irritability

itching of the vagina or outside of the genitals

light vaginal bleeding between periods and after sexual intercourse

loss of interest or pleasure

pain during sexual intercourse

stomach cramps or bloating

stopping of menstrual bleeding

swelling

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

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

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 Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

thumbs-up

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

thumbs-down

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

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

pharmacist
  • Apply Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) around the same day each week. Setting a reminder or alarm can help you stay on schedule.

    • If you forget to change your Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) patch, talk to your prescriber or pharmacist. What you need to do next depends on which week of the cycle you're in and how long the patch was forgotten. You might also need to use backup birth control for a certain period.

      • Don't try to reapply a Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) patch if it's no longer sticky, has folded onto itself or another surface, has dirt or material stuck to it, or has come loose before. Never use tape, adhesives, or wraps to hold the patch in place. Instead, apply a new patch right away.

        • Irregular bleeding (light vaginal spotting) is common while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and doesn't mean the medication isn't working. Keep using it as directed. Talk to your gynecologist if your bleeding doesn’t stop or if you miss your period.

          • Let your gynecologist know if you feel depressed or notice a worsening mood while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). If symptoms become severe, they might have you stop the medication.

            • Tell your gynecologist if you notice swelling or sudden weight gain while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). Discuss your medical history before starting this medication.

              • Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can interact with many medications. Tell your healthcare team about all prescription, over the counter, and supplement products you take before starting this medication.

                • To properly throw away a used Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) patch, fold it in half so the sticky sides stick together. This prevents accidental exposure to leftover medication. Discarded patches can be dangerous if children or pets chew or swallow them, as they can still contain some medication.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

                  How do you use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?
                  To use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol), open the foil pouch and peel off half of the clear plastic from the sticky side of the patch. Place the sticky side on clean, dry skin. Peel off the other half of the plastic and press the entire patch firmly onto your skin for 10 seconds to make sure it sticks.
                  Where can you put Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?
                  It's best to apply Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) to the upper outer arm, stomach, buttock, or back. Avoid areas where the patch might rub off, like your waistline. Don't apply it to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin since this might affect how much medication gets absorbed in your body. Also, make sure to rotate application sites and avoid placing the new patch in the same spot as the previous one.
                  How long does it take for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) to work?
                  How quickly Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) works depends on when you start using it. If you apply your first patch on the Sunday after your period begins, you'll need to use a hormone-free back-up birth control (like condoms) for the first week to make sure you're fully protected. But if you start the patch on the first day of your period, you won't need back-up birth control. Talk with your prescriber about the best time to start this medication.
                  Does Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) cause weight gain?
                  In clinical studies, about 3% of people reported weight gain while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). But it's unclear whether the patch itself caused the weight gain or if it was due to other factors. In general, studies show that hormonal birth control is unlikely to cause significant weight gain, and if it does, it’s usually from fluid buildup rather than added body fat. Talk to your prescriber if you have concerns.
                  How effective is Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?
                  If used perfectly, Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. But it's important to note that it might not work as well for people who weigh more than 198 pounds or have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher.
                  When do you start Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?
                  There are different ways to start Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol), so choose the one that works best for you. You can apply your first patch within 24 hours of your period starting or on the first Sunday after your period begins, even if you're still bleeding. If you choose the Sunday start, use backup birth control for the first week, unless your period started on that Sunday.
                  Is Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) good for acne?
                  No, Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is only FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy. In clinical studies, 3% of people reported acne as a side effect of using the patch. If you notice worsening acne after starting this medication, talk with your healthcare team.
                  What's the difference between Xulane and Zafemy?
                  Both Xulane and Zafemy are branded generic birth versions of Ortho Evra, a birth control patch that's no longer available. Both contain the same hormones (norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol) and are applied once a week to prevent pregnancy. The main difference between these medications is that Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is a larger patch size (14 cm²) than Zafemy (12.5 cm²). Both patches are over 90% effective when used correctly. Speak to your prescriber if you have questions about comparing these medications.
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                  warings-icon

                  What are the risks and warnings for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

                  Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) 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 risk for blood clots

                  • Risk factors: Over 35 years old who smoke cigarettes

                    Smoking cigarettes while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can significantly raise your risk for blood clots. These blood clots can lead to more serious problems, such as heart attack and stroke. The risk is greater if you're over 35 years old and have a history of smoking cigarettes. If you smoke, talk with your gynecologist about safer birth control alternatives.

                    risk-warning

                    Blood clots and strokes

                    • Risk factors: Age 35 or older and smoke | Recent surgery with a long period of bed rest | Starting Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) less than a month after childbirth | High blood pressure | People with BMI at or greater than 30 kg/m² | High cholesterol | Diabetes | Higher dose of estrogen

                      Compared to other combined hormonal contraceptives, Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) leads to higher estrogen absorption, which might raise the risk of side effects, including serious 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 care team you're taking Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). They might have you stop taking it 4 weeks before until 2 weeks after your surgery to lower your risk of blood clots. If you recently delivered a baby, you shouldn't start Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) until 4 weeks after delivery if you're not breastfeeding your child.

                                risk-warning

                                Liver problems

                                • Risk factors: Using hormonal contraceptives for more than 8 years

                                  Don't use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) if you have liver problems, such as hepatitis, severe cirrhosis, or liver tumors. Although rare, this medication can raise your risk of benign liver tumors. If you notice signs of liver problems, stop using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and talk to your gynecologist about other birth control options. Signs of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, or dark urine.

                                  risk-warning

                                  High blood pressure

                                  • Risk factors: Older age | Using hormonal contraceptives for a long time | History of high blood pressure

                                    Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can raise your blood pressure. The risk is higher if you're older and have been using birth control for a long time. If you have a history of high blood pressure that's well-controlled, your prescriber might monitor you while you use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). If you have concerns, talk with them about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

                                    risk-warning

                                    Gallbladder problems

                                    • Risk factors: History of gallbladder problems

                                      Some studies show that Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can slightly raise your risk of gallbladder problems. And if you already have gallbladder problems, this medication could make them worse. If you’ve had cholestasis (a liver condition that slows or stops bile flow) from birth control or pregnancy before, you might have a higher risk of getting it again with Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). Talk to your prescriber if you have a history of gallbladder or liver problems before using this medication.

                                      risk-warning

                                      High blood sugar and triglycerides

                                      • Risk factors: Prediabetes or diabetes | High triglycerides

                                        Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can raise your blood sugar and triglycerides levels. If you have prediabetes or diabetes, your prescriber will likely monitor your blood sugar while you take this medication. High triglycerides can lead to a higher risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Speak with your gynecologist before starting Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) if you have a history of high blood sugar or triglycerides. They might suggest a different birth control option or monitor your lab work more closely while you're using this medication.

                                        risk-warning

                                        Headache

                                        Let your gynecologist know if you experience new or worsening migraines or headaches while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). If you develop frequent, severe, or new headaches, you might need to stop the medication.

                                        risk-warning

                                        Irregular bleeding

                                        People who use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can sometimes experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting. If this happens, talk to your gynecologist to rule out pregnancy, infections, or other medical conditions. If no serious cause is found, the bleeding might stop over time or after switching to a different birth control.

                                        In clinical trials, most people started their withdrawal bleeding on the fourth day of the patch-free week, lasting about 5 to 6 days. If you have concerns about irregular bleeding, talk to your gynecologist.

                                        risk-warning

                                        Depression

                                        • Risk factors: History of depression

                                          If you have a history of depression, your prescriber will monitor you while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). If your depression gets worse or becomes serious, they might stop the medication. Let your prescriber know if you experience mood changes, sadness, or loss of interest in activities while taking this medication.

                                          risk-warning

                                          Risk for breast and cervical cancer

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

                                            Study results are mixed, but Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and other combined hormonal birth control pills might raise your risk for breast and cervical cancer.

                                            Don't take Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) if you currently have or have had breast cancer because some types of breast cancer grow faster in the presence of estrogen, which is in this medication. Perform breast self-checks regularly at home and get yearly breast exams with your gynecologist to help with early detection. Let them know if you notice any new or abnormal lumps, pain, or swelling in your breasts.

                                            Make sure you follow up with your gynecologist to get proper screenings for cervical cancer. Report any signs of vaginal bleeding or discharge that's not normal.

                                            risk-warning

                                            Worsening of other health conditions

                                            • Risk factors: History of hereditary angioedema | History of chloasma gravidarum

                                              If you have certain conditions, such as hereditary angioedema or chloasma (a skin condition that causes dark patches on the face), talk to your prescriber before taking Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) because it might worsen your symptoms. If you have a history of chloasma, limit exposure to the sun or UV light while taking Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol).

                                              dosage

                                              Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) dosage forms

                                              The average cost for 1 package of 3 patches of 150mcg/35mcg of Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is $27.38 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 72.06% off the average retail price of $98.00.
                                              package
                                              Package
                                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                              3 patches of 150mcg/35mcg1 package$27.38$27.38

                                              Typical dosing for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

                                              Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) follows a 28-day (4-week) cycle. Each patch releases 150 mcg of norelgestromin and 35 mcg of ethinyl estradiol per day.

                                              • Weeks 1 to 3: The typical dose is to apply 1 new patch to your skin once a week on the same day each week. Be sure to take off the old patch before applying a new one.

                                              • Week 4: Don't apply a patch this week. This is your patch-free week (three weeks on, one week off).

                                              interactions

                                              Interactions between Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and other drugs

                                              Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) 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 Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). 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.

                                              drug-cost

                                              How much does Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) cost?

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                                              contraindications-icon

                                              Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) 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 Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) will not be safe for you to take.
                                              alternatives

                                              What are alternatives to Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

                                              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                              Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)
                                              Used for:
                                              $27.38 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                              Used for:
                                              • Prevention of pregnancy

                                              $211.01 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                              Used for:
                                              $47.44 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                              latest news

                                              What is the latest news about Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

                                              images

                                              Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) images

                                              Peach Rectangular Xulane (Norelgestromin And Ethinyl Estradiol) 150 / 35 Mcg Per Day - Xulane Transdermal Patch
                                              This medicine is Peach, Rectangular Package Imprinted With "Xulane (Norelgestromin And Ethinyl Estradiol) 150/35 Mcg Per Day".Peach Rectangular Xulane (Norelgestromin And Ethinyl Estradiol) 150 / 35 Mcg Per Day - Xulane Transdermal Patch

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                                              References

                                              Best studies we found

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

                                              MedlinePlus. (2024). Cholestasis.

                                              Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2022). Xulane- norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol patch [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                              View All References (1)

                                              Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). How effective is the birth control patch?

                                              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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