Aubra

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Aubra

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Aubra

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredients Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological class Contraceptives (Hormone Combination)
Common use Prevention of pregnancy
Origin Synthetic

Aubra is a prescription synthetic combination oral contraceptive (OC) tablet primarily used by women of reproductive potential for the prevention of pregnancy (contraception). Pharmacologically, it is classified within the group of Sex Hormones and Modulators of the Genital System, reflecting its action on the female reproductive system. The medication is an oral tablet that follows a multi-day regimen, a characteristic clinically recognized for establishing consistent hormonal control.


Composition: Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel

Aubra is defined as a combination product because it contains two distinct active ingredients: the estrogen component, Ethinyl Estradiol, and the progestin component, Levonorgestrel. These synthetic hormone components are compounded into an excipient base suitable for the oral tablet form. Aubra is categorized as a monophasic oral contraceptive. This low-dose, fixed-concentration structure, also seen in analogue combinations like Aviane and Lessina, ensures the exact quantity of both Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel remains constant in every active tablet throughout the cycle, which is a key differentiating feature from variable-dose formulations.


Why Choose a Combination Contraceptive?

The core purpose of this drug is the reliable and highly effective prevention of pregnancy, achieved by utilizing the synergistic effects of two different hormone types. By combining the actions of both Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel, the drug achieves robust contraception through a multi-target approach. Combined hormonal contraceptives work by inhibiting the body's natural processes, such as the release of an egg, and by modifying the reproductive environment. This dual-hormonal strategy ensures that the primary function of prevention of pregnancy is achieved efficiently, offering a typical, neutral use scenario for individuals seeking hormonal birth control.

What side effects are possible with Aubra?

The safety profile of Aubra, a combination oral contraceptive containing Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel, is formally defined in government regulatory documents through classifications of adverse reactions and explicit safety restrictions.

Adverse Reaction Scope

Classification Examples of Reactions Affected System-Organ Classes
Common Nausea, headache, breast tenderness, irregular uterine bleeding, and weight changes. Gastrointestinal, Nervous System, Reproductive System.
Serious (Rare) Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), Arterial Thromboembolism (ATE) including stroke and myocardial infarction, and Hepatic Neoplasia (liver tumors). Vascular, Hepatobiliary.

Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Regulatory sources specify certain safety constraints and population-specific risks. The risk of thromboembolism is officially noted to be highest during the first year of use and upon restarting after a four-week break or longer. Irregular bleeding or spotting is documented as most frequent during the initial few cycles of treatment and typically lessens over time.

Aubra is formally restricted (contraindicated) for individuals with a history of or current VTE/ATE, known or suspected estrogen-dependent malignancy (such as certain breast cancers), severe hepatic disease, and undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding.

Official labeling also highlights a significantly increased risk of serious cardiovascular events for smokers over age 35 and for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors. These conditions strictly define the regulatory boundaries for the use of this medicine.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section describes the officially documented manifestations and required emergency actions for an overdose of Aubra (Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol), based strictly on government regulatory documents.

Overdose Scope

Classification Detail (As Stated in Regulatory Labels)
Documented Presentations Nausea, Vomiting, and Vaginal bleeding (or withdrawal bleeding) are the primary manifestations . Other documented symptoms include sleepiness/tiredness, giddiness, abdominal pain, and chest tightness .
Antidote Information No specific antidote is known for overdose with this combination product .
Management Treatment must be strictly symptomatic and supportive .
Population Note The documented overdose symptoms are relevant for both adults and children .

When Immediate Medical Help is Required

Seeking immediate medical attention is required following any suspected overdose for guidance and supportive treatment . Because no specific antidote exists, professional medical assistance should be sought to manage the acute manifestations and provide supportive care, as mandated by official prescribing information .

Therapeutic Uses of Aubra

This medication is primarily used for reliable pregnancy prevention in women of reproductive potential. It is relevant in clinical settings where patients elect a systemic method of birth control, providing the core benefit of predictable reproductive control for family planning.

Commonly, it is applied in therapeutic contexts to assist with the management of multiple symptoms, including heavy blood loss (menorrhagia), painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), and hormonally-driven acne. It supports the establishment of menstrual cycle regularity and is commonly applied in a therapeutic context related to functional ovarian cysts.

“It provides support that helps ease the overall symptom load, especially during symptomatic periods.”

This therapeutic approach focuses on symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, providing supportive relief when additional management of discomfort is required beyond the core contraceptive function. This contributes to easing the overall symptom load and helps maintain functional stability.

Quick Fact: Relief for Problematic Periods
Aubra is generally used for managing symptoms such as heavy bleeding and painful cramps that are difficult to tolerate, supporting a more stable and predictable monthly cycle.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH DailyMed Prescribing Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Aubra (Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol) is officially indicated for use by females of reproductive potential for the prevention of pregnancy. However, regulatory documentation establishes strict rules for patient eligibility based on pre-existing health conditions and age.

Contraindications and Non-Eligibility

Use of this medication is contraindicated in several groups due to serious risks:

  • Females over 35 years of age who smoke.
  • Individuals with a high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases, including current or history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or coronary artery disease.
  • Females with current or history of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers.
  • Individuals with specific liver diseases, such as liver tumors, acute viral hepatitis, or decompensated cirrhosis.
  • Females with uncontrolled hypertension or migraine headaches with aura.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Aubra is contraindicated during known or suspected pregnancy and is not recommended for nursing mothers as it may decrease milk production. The medication must be discontinued at least four weeks before and for two weeks following major surgery with prolonged immobilization. The product's safety and efficacy are not established in pre-pubertal females, and it is not indicated for postmenopausal women.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official interaction profile for Aubra (Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel) is defined by substance-specific prohibitions and pharmacokinetic restrictions documented in regulatory labeling.

Formal Contraindications and Prohibitions

Co-administration is formally contraindicated with the Hepatitis C combination drug regimen containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, due to the potential risk of ALT enzyme elevations. Use is also prohibited with Tranexamic Acid (Oral) and Fezolinetant [FDA/NIH DailyMed].

Exposure-Altering Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Interaction Type Interacting Substance/Class Official Documented Effect
Reduced Efficacy Hepatic Enzyme Inducers (e.g., CYP3A4 Inducers) Causes decreased systemic exposure and reduced clearance of the contraceptive components [FDA Drug Labeling].
Reduced Efficacy Herbal product St. John's Wort Classified as an enzyme inducer that can reduce effectiveness [MedlinePlus].
Altered Co-drug Need Thyroid Replacement Hormones Estrogen component raises serum binding globulin concentrations, necessitating monitoring and potential increased dose of the co-administered hormone [FDA Drug Labeling].

Pharmacodynamic and Procedural Constraints

The contraceptive may decrease the therapeutic effects of co-administered drugs like Anastrozole or certain Anticoagulants through pharmacodynamic antagonism. Furthermore, a timing-based action is required if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs within 3 to 4 hours after administration, due to potential compromise of absorption, mandating the use of the specific missed tablet protocol [Regulatory Documentation]. Steroid hormones are also noted to be poorly metabolized in the presence of impaired liver function [FDA Drug Labeling].

Mechanism of Action

Central HPO Axis Suppression and Anovulation

This mechanism involves the drug's active ingredients acting as agonists at hormone receptors in the pituitary and hypothalamus, triggering an established negative feedback loop . This action suppresses the release of FSH and LH, which are the key hormonal signals required for follicular maturation and the ovulatory LH surge, leading directly to the primary physiological effect of anovulation (preventing egg release).


Peripheral Barrier Enhancement

The progestin component exerts a localized effect on the reproductive tract tissues, which provides parallel mechanistic actions. In the cervix, it causes the mucus to become thicker and less permeable, resulting in a physical barrier that impedes sperm movement. In the uterus, it modulates the endometrial lining, reducing its suitability for potential implantation, which contributes to the multi-layered nature of the mechanism.


Receptor Signaling and Cascade Blockade

The drug’s fundamental action is its competitive binding to Estrogen (ER) and Progesterone (PR) receptors in target cells. This engagement interrupts the natural hormonal signal transduction cascade and replaces it with a synthetic signal, directly blocking the normal feedback patterns necessary to initiate a fertile cycle and resulting in specific physiological adjustments.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Aubra

Aubra is an oral tablet prescribed for daily, cyclic administration. The medicine is designed to be taken once every day at the same time to maintain consistent hormone levels, and ingestion is permitted without regard to meals. The dosage is fixed (monophasic), with each active tablet containing 0.1 mg of Levonorgestrel and 0.02 mg of Ethinyl Estradiol.

The regimen follows a 28-day schedule. This cycle consists of taking 21 consecutive days of active hormone tablets, immediately followed by 7 consecutive days of inactive (placebo) tablets. The subsequent 28-day pack must be started the day after the last inactive tablet of the previous pack, ensuring continuous use.

Specific protocols govern the initiation of the medication. Administration can begin using either the Day 1 Start (on the first day of the menstrual period) or the Sunday Start method. If the Sunday Start method is employed, a non-hormonal back-up method is used for the first seven days of the first cycle. For postpartum females who are not breastfeeding, the medication should not be initiated until at least four weeks after delivery.

Instructions regarding incomplete absorption indicate that if severe vomiting or diarrhea occurs within three to four hours of taking an active tablet, the event is managed procedurally as a missed dose. This structured approach, defined by the cycle, timing, and strength, forms the essential framework for its administration.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Aubra (Levonorgestrel / Ethinyl Estradiol)

Evidence for Use in Pregnancy Prevention (Contraception)

The primary research for combination oral contraceptives is built upon pivotal clinical trials and extensive long-term epidemiological studies. These investigations have been utilized by regulatory bodies to evaluate this medication’s use in healthy women of reproductive potential. In these primary studies, researchers monitored key physiological outcomes, such as consistent measurements of hormones and ovarian activity, which is an outcome monitored in research. The main outcome measured was the rate of accidental pregnancy, which was tracked in relation to adherence: "perfect use" (consistent and correct adherence) and "typical use" (reflecting real-world variability).

The evidence landscape for combination pills includes findings from clinical trials and long-term observation. Research has explored the difference between the consistent outcomes observed under controlled trial conditions and the results when adherence is less than perfect. Variability in adherence is noted in the research as a factor affecting the outcomes of real-world effectiveness. Furthermore, comparative research directly contrasting this specific formulation against alternative contraceptive methods remains an area where data may be limited.

Evidence for the Management of Menstrual Symptoms

The evidence base for combination oral contraceptives includes research exploring conditions characterized by functional limitations related to the menstrual cycle, such as heavy bleeding and painful cramps. This body of evidence includes systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized trials where the medication was evaluated against other active treatments or placebo. Research has explored outcomes related to physical discomfort and patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.

Studies monitored measurements related to menstrual blood loss, often using specific clinical scales, and observed the reported symptom patterns in populations studied for painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Research describes patterns of menstrual cycle regularity monitored during the study period. While evidence contributes to understanding these symptom patterns, the findings were sometimes mixed when evaluating different progestin types or estrogen doses. Additionally, some evidence is derived from analyses where symptom management was a secondary objective, meaning the specific focus on these outcomes was not always the sole primary goal of the research.

Evidence for the Management of Functional Ovarian Cysts

Research has examined combination oral contraceptives in the context of conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms, such as functional ovarian cysts. Studies monitored two main outcomes: the suppression of new cyst formation, and the rate and timing of resolution for existing cysts. This evidence includes both observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Observational data show patterns related to the monitored occurrence of new functional ovarian cysts during the observation period. However, findings from higher-quality RCTs, when comparing use to simple observation (watchful waiting), often reported no substantial difference in the time it took for existing functional cysts to resolve. The resolution of existing cysts is a condition where symptoms may vary in intensity, and many cysts are observed to resolve naturally over a short period. As such, certainty remains low regarding whether this use is associated with accelerating the resolution of cysts already present, and research has primarily provided insight into the monitoring of new formations.

Long-Term Research and Continuation Data

The evidence landscape for this combination pill includes both short-term clinical trials, typically with follow-up durations of six months to one year, and much longer epidemiological studies that track patient outcomes over decades. Research has explored outcomes reflecting daily functioning and monitored patient-reported patterns over defined time intervals. These long-term studies help track the pattern of continued use (adherence) over time.

However, data for certain groups remain insufficient, particularly concerning the long-term outcomes associated with certain dosing regimens, such as continuous active pill use. Follow-up durations were limited in some of the more recent formulation-specific trials, and consequently, long-term effects are not fully established for all aspects of continuous use. Research is ongoing to better characterize the extended-duration outcomes.

Evidence in Special Populations and Specific Groups

The research base is primarily focused on women of reproductive age, and data for geriatric patients remains insufficient or absent in the study summaries. Specific research has reported that low-dose levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol formulations were evaluated in populations of teenagers. Research has examined temporary physiological imbalance related to postpartum status, and studies monitor the time interval observed before hormonal contraceptive initiation. The evidence highlights the areas that have been studied, and those that remain uncertain, for other groups. For instance, data for certain groups, such as women with specific pre-existing comorbidities, may be limited because these groups are often excluded from primary clinical trials.

Research Gaps and What Remains Uncertain

A prominent difference noted in the research is between the "Perfect Use" effectiveness measured in controlled studies and the "Typical Use" effectiveness measured in the real world, which is inherently influenced by human factors and adherence patterns. Results apply only to the populations studied, meaning that findings do not determine whether an individual will respond similarly. Additionally, while the medication was associated with specific non-contraceptive findings in some studies, long-term outcomes for all these secondary uses are not fully established. There is also limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the continuous use of active pills, where research continues to explore outcomes related to bleeding patterns and other systemic effects.

Key Studies & References

  1. DailyMed Prescribing Information: Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets
  2. MedlinePlus: Oral Contraceptives - Drug Information
  3. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 195: Prevention of Ovarian Cysts with Combined Oral Contraceptives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Aubra (FAQ)


Q: Is Aubra considered a monophasic or multiphasic pill?

Aubra is formally categorized as a monophasic oral contraceptive. This classification means the dose of both active hormones is the same in every active tablet within the cycle, ensuring a consistent level of hormones is provided each day.


Q: Is Aubra a low-dose birth control option?

Yes, official documentation describes this formulation as a low-dose combination oral contraceptive. This is generally understood to be referencing the low concentration of the estrogen component, Ethinyl Estradiol.


Q: Can Aubra be used for purposes other than birth control?

Aubra is officially indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. However, regulatory documents and research on this class of medicine are described as being associated with non-contraceptive benefits, such as supporting menstrual cycle regularity and reduced heavy blood loss.


Q: Does Aubra cause weight gain?

The official product labeling lists weight changes, including both gain and loss, as one of the common adverse effects associated with the use of this drug. This is described as a general pattern of experience reported in studies.


Q: Are headaches a common side effect of Aubra?

Yes, regulatory documents classify headache as a common side effect reported by users of this medication. Common side effects are those that are more frequently experienced, especially during the initial phase of use.


Q: Can Aubra affect hair loss or hair growth?

Official postmarketing reports have cited changes related to hair as possible adverse effects. These include descriptions of both alopecia (hair loss) and hirsutism (unwanted hair growth) associated with the use of the medication.


Q: Does Aubra have an effect on acne?

Official information notes that while acne may occur as an adverse reaction for some, combination birth control pills have also been noted in research to be associated with effects on acne.


Q: Can Aubra cause changes in libido?

Official postmarketing reports from regulatory data have noted a possible occurrence of decreased interest in sexual intercourse as an adverse effect associated with this drug.


Q: How long does it typically take for side effects from Aubra to go away?

Official patient counseling states that certain common side effects, such as nausea and irregular bleeding, may subside within the first three months of use. If side effects continue or are bothersome beyond this initial period, official materials indicate that continued or bothersome side effects are a subject that can be addressed by a healthcare provider.


Q: Is spotting or breakthrough bleeding normal when starting Aubra?

Irregular bleeding or spotting is documented in regulatory labeling as being most frequent during the initial few cycles of treatment. Official information indicates that this usually lessens over time as the body adjusts to the medication.


Q: Is it normal to feel nauseous when first taking Aubra?

Nausea is classified as a common side effect of Aubra. Patient counseling indicates this effect is common enough that it is mentioned as one that may subside within the first three months of use, suggesting it is a common initial experience for new users.


Q: How long after stopping Aubra does it take for the normal cycle to return?

Studies on similar formulations of the active ingredients indicate that hormonal changes necessary for ovulation to resume typically occur within a month of stopping the medication. For most women, menstruation begins again within 90 days after stopping the pill.


Q: What happens when you stop taking Aubra?

When the medication is stopped, the body begins to return to its natural cycle. Regulatory-cited research indicates that the return of ovulation (the release of an egg) typically occurs within a month. Menstruation is also expected to resume, typically within 90 days for most women.


Q: Can Aubra affect blood pressure?

The regulatory documents state that the use of combination oral contraceptives may elevate blood pressure. Clinically significant increases have been reported. Official labeling notes that monitoring blood pressure while using this medication is a safety consideration due to this potential effect.


Q: Can Aubra be taken by someone with a history of migraines?

The official labeling states the drug is formally contraindicated (should not be used) for females with a history of migraines with aura, as this increases the risk of stroke. This subject is noted in regulatory materials as requiring assessment by a healthcare provider.


Q: What is the difference between Aubra and Aubra EQ?

Aubra is a brand name for a generic combination of Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol. Aubra EQ is also a specific brand name used for the identical generic formulation (the generic formulation of Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol). They share the same active ingredients and strength.


Q: Is it possible to take Aubra continuously to skip periods?

The official patient information describes the standard method as a cyclic 28-day regimen (21 active pills followed by 7 inactive pills). While continuous use (skipping the inactive pills) is sometimes practiced, it is not the standard regimen described in the official regulatory documentation.


Q: Why is it described that users should take Aubra at the same time each day?

Official counseling emphasizes the importance of taking the pill at the same time each day because its intended effectiveness relies on maintaining a consistent hormonal level, which occurs when no more than 24 hours pass between doses.


Q: Can Aubra affect iron levels in the body?

Research on contraceptives containing levonorgestrel indicates that by reducing menstrual blood loss, these medications can lead to an improvement in parameters related to anemia. This can include an increase in serum hemoglobin and ferritin (iron) levels.


Q: Does Aubra affect the results of certain medical lab tests?

Yes, the official labeling states the drug may interfere with the results of certain lab tests, such as those measuring blood clotting factors or thyroid levels. This is a known effect that may need to be considered when tests are interpreted.


Q: How does the time of day a pill is taken affect its action?

The timing of the pill is important because delaying the dose by more than 24 hours could jeopardize the efficacy (protection against pregnancy). Taking it at a consistent time ensures the continuous hormonal coverage needed for the medication to work as intended.


Q: Is it described in regulatory documents that Aubra can cause vision changes?

Yes, official adverse event reports mention eyesight changes or loss as possible serious effects. Regulatory materials also note that the drug can cause a change in how contact lenses feel.


Q: Why do official materials mention certain cancer risks in relation to Aubra?

The official documentation lists known or suspected estrogen-dependent malignancies (like certain breast cancers) as a contraindication due to potential risks. Additionally, a rare but serious adverse reaction noted in the labeling is hepatic neoplasia (liver tumors).


Q: Can Aubra affect thyroid function tests?

The drug is specifically noted to interfere with laboratory tests, including those used to measure thyroid levels. This interference is a known factor that may require specific monitoring or adjustment of thyroid replacement hormones.


Q: Are there any reported cases of allergic reactions to Aubra's ingredients?

Official postmarketing reports list certain types of allergic responses in the immunologic adverse reaction category. These include reports of hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions.


Q: Is Aubra available as a generic drug?

Yes, Aubra is one of the available generic versions of the combination drug containing the active ingredients Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol.


Q: Are there different generic versions of Aubra?

Yes, the active components in Aubra (Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol) are widely available under many different generic brand names on the market.


Q: What is the shelf life or expiry period for Aubra (factual storage detail)?

Official regulatory requirements mandate that the manufacturer place an expiration date on the label. This date specifies the final day of guaranteed full potency and safety. This period is typically between one and five years from the time of manufacture.

How should Aubra be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Aubra (Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets)

Official regulatory guidelines strictly define the conditions necessary for storing Aubra to maintain its stability.

Storage Requirements

Labeled Storage Component Official Requirement
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature (CRT), which is 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Brief excursions are permitted between 15 C and 30 C.
Protection Store away from freezing, excessive heat, moisture, and direct light.
Packaging The medicine must be kept in its original container. Do not use the product if the carton is open or the blister seal is broken or missing.
Child Safety Keep out of the reach of children.

Disposal

Outdated or unused medicine should be disposed of according to the guidance provided by a healthcare professional or local waste disposal programs. The product should not be disposed of by pouring it down a sink or toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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