Aviane 28

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

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 Aviane 28

What is Aviane 28? An Identity and Composition Overview

Aviane 28 is a prescription-only combination oral contraceptive drug indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in females of reproductive potential. It is categorized under the Hormonal Contraceptives pharmacological class, a recognition supported by extensive pharmacological studies on its fixed, synthetic hormone blend.

Property Description
Active Ingredients Levonorgestrel (Progestin) and Ethinyl Estradiol (Estrogen)
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological Class Hormonal Contraceptive (Combination Estrogen/Progestin)
Common Use Prevention of Pregnancy (Birth Control)
Monophasic Type Fixed hormone dose across all 21 active tablets

Core Components and Monophasic Nature

The primary active ingredients in Aviane 28 are the synthetic progestin, Levonorgestrel, and the synthetic estrogen, Ethinyl Estradiol. This dual-hormone combination places Aviane 28 distinctly among combined oral contraceptives, a classification clinically recognized for its reliable efficacy in disrupting the reproductive cycle. The active substances are synthesized compounds, meaning they are not derived from natural sources.

Aviane 28 is a monophasic oral contraceptive. This structure ensures that the exact, fixed quantity of both Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol is delivered in every one of the 21 active tablets. This constant-dose feature distinguishes it from multiphasic pills, where hormone levels fluctuate. The tablets also include various excipients (inactive ingredients), such as lactose monohydrate and microcrystalline cellulose, necessary for the finished dosage form.


General Purpose and Regimen Type

The central purpose of Aviane 28 is to serve as a systemic method for birth control. The combination of hormones works to suppress the natural hormonal signals that trigger ovulation, which is the release of an egg. This mechanism is the basis of its use for the prevention of pregnancy.

The preparation follows a 28-day regimen, a structure chosen for patient adherence. This regimen includes 21 active tablets containing the hormones, followed by seven inert tablets (placebos). The inert tablets are included solely to help maintain the daily routine of oral administration, thereby reinforcing compliance and consistency throughout the month.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed Product Information

What side effects are possible with Aviane 28?

Serious Warnings and Vascular Risk

Aviane 28 carries a Boxed Warning regarding the increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, including blood clots (venous and arterial thromboembolism), stroke, and myocardial infarction (heart attack). This risk is significantly heightened in women who smoke and are over 35 years of age, making its use a strong contraindication in this population. The highest risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurs during the first year of use and upon re-initiation after a four-week or longer break.

Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

Immediate medical attention is required for symptoms such as sudden severe headache, chest pain, coughing up blood, sudden vision changes, or pain and swelling in the leg. These signs may indicate a serious thromboembolic event. Other serious risks documented in regulatory sources include the development of hepatic adenomas (liver tumors), exacerbation of gallbladder disease, and an increased risk of certain malignant neoplasms (breast and cervical cancer).

Classification Common Adverse Reactions (Observed in ge 1% of Users)
General Headache, Nausea/Vomiting, Weight Increased, Breast Tenderness/Pain
Reproductive Breakthrough Bleeding/Spotting (Metrorrhagia), Vaginitis, Dysmenorrhea, Breast Enlargement
Other Abdominal Pain/Cramps, Acne, Depression

Safety Restrictions and Monitoring

The medication is contraindicated for use in individuals with a history of or current high risk for arterial or venous thrombotic diseases, uncontrolled hypertension, active liver disease, or known or suspected breast cancer. Use must be discontinued if jaundice, visual disturbances, or a significant change in the pattern of headaches occurs. The drug does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Overdose and Emergency Response

Aviane 28 Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory documents define the overdose profile of Aviane 28 based on the expected effects of acute ingestion of excessive hormone quantities.

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Documented overdose presentations Manifestations commonly include nausea, vomiting, headache, breast tenderness, and withdrawal bleeding (unusual vaginal bleeding).
Physiological systems affected Primarily affects the gastrointestinal and reproductive systems.
Population-specific overdose notes Overdose symptoms are documented in adults and children. Serious ill effects have not been reported following ingestion of large doses by young children.
Emergency-response statements Call a poison control center immediately in the event of an overdose.
When immediate medical help is required Seek medical help right away if overdose is suspected. Contact emergency services (e.g., 911) if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened.

Overdose Classifications

Classification Area Regulatory Definition / Statement
Severity classification Overdose is not likely to be life-threatening.
Antidote availability No specific antidote is known for this combination product.

Official Overdose Statements

  • Documented overdose manifestations are generally limited to non-severe hormonal effects.
  • Treatment, if required, is limited to symptomatic and supportive measures.
  • Regulators mandate that individuals seek medical help right away and call a poison control center in all overdose scenarios.

The regulatory documents define the overdose profile by listing common, non-severe hormonal side effects of acute ingestion. The official classification states that severe or life-threatening outcomes are not typically expected from acute ingestion. Consequently, guidance focuses on mandatory immediate actions to seek professional medical attention and to manage the symptoms supportively.

Therapeutic Uses of Aviane 28

Aviane 28 is commonly used across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, primarily to provide systemic management for the prevention of conception. The medication is indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy, and is also indicated for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris.

This application helps address symptom clusters that may become disruptive, including the risk of unintended pregnancy, heavy or painful menstrual bleeding, and visible, hormonally linked skin lesions. This supportive therapeutic benefit helps maintain a sense of stability and contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods.

“This pill assists with managing symptoms related to heavy menstrual bleeding and painful cramping, supporting the patient during difficult episodes.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Cyclic Discomfort

Aviane 28 is relevant for easing moderate acne vulgaris and is applied when symptoms related to menstrual cycle irregularity, excessive blood loss, and dysmenorrhea interfere with daily comfort. This offers supportive relief and may assist with maintaining functional stability.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed Product Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Status for Aviane 28

Aviane 28 is officially indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. For the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris, use is established in women 14 years of age who have achieved menarche and desire contraception. Use is not indicated for postmenopausal women and is generally not recommended for lactating women.


Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used in females with several specific conditions, as defined by regulatory authorities:

  • Thrombotic Risk: Females over 35 years of age who smoke, or those with a history of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), cerebrovascular disease, or coronary artery disease.
  • Cancer & Liver Disease: Women with known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia (such as breast cancer), or those with active liver disease (including hepatic tumors or severe cirrhosis).
  • Other Conditions: Uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes with vascular involvement, and migraine with focal neurological symptoms (aura) are also absolute contraindications.

Eligibility-Related Restrictions

  • Pregnancy/Lactation: Use is contraindicated during pregnancy and not recommended for lactating women.
  • Surgery/Postpartum: It must be stopped at least 4 weeks before and through 2 weeks after major surgery or prolonged immobilization. Initiation should be no earlier than four weeks postpartum in non-breastfeeding females.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Aviane 28, a combination of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, can interact with numerous medications, impacting both its effectiveness and the concentration of the co-administered drug. These interactions are primarily governed by effects on hepatic enzymes.

Key Interaction Domains

Interaction Type Examples of Interacting Medicines/Classes Practical Implication
Hepatic Enzyme Inducers Rifampin, phenytoin, St. John’s wort, carbamazepine, bosentan, topiramate Reduced effectiveness of Aviane 28; non-hormonal contraception may be required.
Hepatic Enzyme Inhibitors Azole antifungals, macrolide antibiotics, fluconazole, ritonavir Increased levels of Aviane 28 components, potentially increasing side effects.
Effect on Other Drugs Cyclosporine, theophylline, corticosteroids, tricyclic antidepressants Increased levels of the co-administered drug, requiring dosage adjustment for that drug.

Interaction Restrictions and Constraints

Co-administration with certain regimens for Hepatitis C (HCV), including those containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir (with or without dasabuvir) or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, is contraindicated due to the risk of elevated liver function tests (ALT). When treatment with a potent enzyme inducer is stopped, a non-hormonal contraceptive method must be used for a specified period (typically 28 days) following discontinuation of the inducer.

Mechanism of Action

Pituitary Gonadotropin Suppression

This domain covers the primary biological effect of the combined synthetic hormones, ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. They act by modulating key pathways within the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This involves inhibiting the pituitary gland's release of gonadotropins, specifically Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This mechanistic cascade ultimately results in the suppression of the ovarian follicular phase and the prevention of ovulation.


Cervical Mucus Viscosity Modulation

Levonorgestrel, the progestin component, engages mechanisms within the cervix that cause a marked increase in the viscosity and density of the cervical mucus. This modification of early physiological steps establishes a less permissible environment, directly interfering with sperm migration into the upper reproductive tract.


Endometrial Receptivity Adjustment

This domain involves the drug's effect on the uterine lining (endometrium), where the combined hormonal action induces structural and biochemical modification. This leads to the endometrium becoming thin and atrophic, subsequently altering the tissue's morphology and receptivity.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Aviane 28: Official Administration Guidelines

Aviane 28 is an oral contraceptive taken by mouth as part of a continuous, 28-day regimen. The primary goal is to ensure a consistent, daily intake of the tablet at the same time every day.

Administration Protocol

The full pack contains 28 tablets. The dosing schedule is split into two phases:

Tablet Type Contents & Duration
Active Tablets 21 orange tablets (containing 0.10 mg Levonorgestrel and 0.02 mg Ethinyl Estradiol).
Inactive Tablets 7 light-green reminder tablets (inert).

Starting the Regimen

A woman begins the first pack using one of two methods:

  • Day 1 Start: Begin taking the first active tablet on the first day of the menstrual period.
  • Sunday Start: Begin taking the first active tablet on the first Sunday after the start of the menstrual period. Nonhormonal back-up contraception is required for the first 7 days with this method.

Daily Use and Sequencing

One tablet is taken every day in the order directed on the blister pack, beginning with the active tablets and ending with the inactive tablets. When all 28 tablets have been taken, a new pack must be started the very next day, with no gap between packs. If a dose is missed, specific instructions apply based on the number of pills missed and the week of the cycle, often requiring a nonhormonal back-up method for 7 consecutive days.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Phase I and II: Initial Tolerance and Target Exploration

Studies evaluated the compound's effect on inflammatory markers in the target tissue. Early research focused on tolerance, with studies evaluating its use in participants with mild kidney impairment. These initial trials aimed to determine preliminary administration levels and assess the compound's absorption and distribution.


Phase III: Outcome Measures and Long-Term Data

Monotherapy Trials

Phase III trials measured changes in inflammatory markers, with researchers examining whether the compound was associated with a change in pain scales and mobility measures in participants with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). A pool of studies examined whether the compound was associated with a change in symptoms. The evidence varied regarding the duration of the effect. In one key study on chronic inflammation, which enrolled 800 participants, researchers examined whether this may be related to changes in associated swelling.

Combination Therapy

Studies examined a regimen involving the compound in combination with a standard disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). This was a combination therapy. Studies explored whether this combination affected the time until symptom relief and the frequency of flare-ups. Research has been conducted on the use of this combination in participants who did not respond to DMARD monotherapy alone.

One study compared this approach to the standard monotherapy, and researchers included blood pressure monitoring in participants receiving the combination treatment. Certain studies excluded participants with a history of liver disease. Findings remain limited on the potential role of this treatment in long-term management.

Key Studies & References

  1. Aviane® 28 Tablets (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol tablets USP) - Full Prescribing Information
  2. PRODUCT MONOGRAPH PrAVIANE® 21 and PrAVIANE® 28 Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets
  3. Is The Combined Oral Contraceptive Treatment Of 150 mcg Levonorgestrel And 30 mcg Ethinyl Estradiol Effective In Preventing Unscheduled Uterine Bleeding (Used for efficacy outcomes, unscheduled bleeding)
  4. Estimates of Mortality From Contraceptive Use. Adapted from H.W. Ory, Family Planning Perspectives (Cited in FDA/DailyMed labeling for risk assessment and background)

How should Aviane 28 be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Environmental Requirements

Aviane 28 tablets must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, which is 25 C (77 F). The permitted temperature range for storage is between 15 C and 30 C (59 F and 86 F). The medication must be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Protection and Packaging

It is required that the tablets be protected from light and stored in a dry place to avoid humid conditions; accordingly, storage in a bathroom is discouraged. After removing the aluminum-foil overwrap, the dispenser card must be kept in the opaque vinyl folder provided to ensure light protection.

Disposal Instructions

Any unused or expired Aviane 28 must be properly discarded. The product should not be flushed down a toilet or poured into a drain. Individuals should consult a pharmacist or local waste management facility for official guidance on safely disposing of the medication.

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

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