Desolett

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

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 Desolett

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Desogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol
Form Oral Tablet (Monophasic)
Pharmacological Class Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC)
Common Use Prevention of Pregnancy (Contraception)
Origin Synthetic Steroids
Status Prescription-Only Medicine (Rx)

What Type of Contraceptive is Desolett?

Desolett is a Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC), an oral prescription medicine used for systemic administration to prevent pregnancy. Its pharmacological classification is under the group of Sex Hormones and Modulators of the Genital System. As a monophasic oral product, a key structural feature is that each active tablet contains a consistent, fixed dose of both active ingredients throughout the cycle. The overall therapeutic purpose of this established pharmaceutical design is to provide highly reliable fertility control for women of reproductive age.


Composition: Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol

The primary activity of Desolett is derived from its two synthetic steroid hormones: Desogestrel, which is a third-generation progestin, and Ethinyl Estradiol, a synthetic estrogen. These two active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) work synergistically, delivered together within the oral tablet matrix. This combination of both a progestin and an estrogen is critical for efficacy, distinguishing it from progestin-only oral contraceptives.


What is the General Purpose of Desolett?

The general purpose of Desolett is the prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive age through systemic hormonal regulation. The combined effect of its active ingredients achieves this purpose through a triple inhibitory mechanism. Primarily, the medication works by suppressing ovulation, thereby preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries. This action is reinforced by causing a thickening of the cervical mucus and inducing changes in the lining of the uterus, which together reduce the probability of both fertilization and implantation.

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization

What side effects are possible with Desolett?

The official safety profile for Desolett, a combined hormonal contraceptive, outlines potential effects categorized by frequency and the organ systems involved. This information is derived from regulatory documents, including FDA and EMA labeling.

Adverse Reaction Classifications

Classification Examples of Documented Effects (System-Organ Class)
Common Headache, nausea, abdominal pain (Gastrointestinal, Nervous System). Depressed mood, breast pain or tenderness, and weight increase (Psychiatric, Reproductive System).
Uncommon Vomiting, diarrhea, migraine (Gastrointestinal, Nervous System). Fluid retention, rash, decreased libido (Metabolic, Skin, Psychiatric).
Rare Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), Arterial Thromboembolism (ATE) (Vascular). Contact lens intolerance, erythema nodosum (Eye, Skin).

Serious Adverse Reactions

The use of combined hormonal contraceptives is associated with an increased risk of serious vascular and other conditions documented in official labeling.

  • Thromboembolic Events: The most serious risks are Venous Thromboembolism (e.g., Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism) and Arterial Thromboembolism (e.g., Myocardial Infarction, Stroke). The VTE risk is formally documented as highest in the first year of use or upon restarting therapy after a break of four weeks or more.
  • Other Serious Concerns: Documented associations include Hypertension (increased blood pressure), Hepatic Neoplasia (benign liver tumors), and Gallbladder Disease.

Safety Constraints and Special Populations

Official regulatory warnings restrict the use of this medicine in specific populations.

  • Age and Smoking: Combination oral contraceptives are contraindicated in women over 35 years of age who smoke due to a significantly increased risk of serious cardiovascular events. This represents a formal, high-level safety constraint.
  • Contraindications: Use is restricted in individuals with a history of or current thromboembolic disease, severe hepatic impairment, liver tumors, or known estrogen-dependent malignancies.

This framework ensures that common, expected effects are distinguished from rare, major safety risks that are formally documented as being influenced by patient characteristics and duration of exposure.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The information in this section strictly outlines the officially documented overdose manifestations and emergency response guidelines for Desogestrel/Ethinyl Estradiol as stated in government regulatory sources.


Documented Overdose Presentations

Official labeling consistently describes the following clinical manifestations following acute ingestion of doses significantly higher than prescribed:

Feature Documented Clinical Signs
Gastrointestinal Nausea and vomiting
Reproductive (Females) Withdrawal bleeding (vaginal bleeding)

Serious or life-threatening effects have not been reported following the acute ingestion of large doses, particularly when ingested accidentally by young children, according to regulatory documents. The acute toxicity profile of the combined hormonal agents is generally classified as low.


Required Emergency Actions

Overdose management is explicitly defined as symptomatic and supportive, and specific actions must be taken immediately as mandated by regulatory authorities:

  • Seek Immediate Attention: Patients or caregivers are required to seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center for professional assessment and guidance in the event of an overdose.
  • Supportive Care: The official approach for management is symptomatic and supportive treatment provided by a healthcare professional.
  • Antidote Status: Regulatory documents state that no specific antidote is known for Desogestrel/Ethinyl Estradiol overdose.

Therapeutic Uses of Desolett

What Desolett Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Desolett is a combined hormonal medication primarily used for managing fertility and reproductive planning for women of reproductive age. The medication is also commonly used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, and it generally provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden for patients.


Management of Cyclical Distress and Functional Stability

This therapeutic domain addresses symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, such as symptoms related to physical discomfort and symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain. The medication is applied in conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations, including irregular menstruation, symptoms related to physical discomfort, and symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain. It assists with maintaining functional stability during symptomatic periods and provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.


Relief of Hormonal Skin Conditions

This domain helps manage symptoms affecting the skin, primarily hormonal acne (acne vulgaris) and the presence of unwanted hair growth (hirsutism). Applied in contexts where additional symptomatic support is needed, the medication is applied in addressing symptom clusters driven by underlying hormonal fluctuations. This contributes to easing the overall symptom load related to skin manifestations and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.


Quick Fact: Context for Symptom Management
Primary Therapeutic Goal Used for managing fertility and reproductive planning.
Symptom Cluster Coverage Symptoms related to physical discomfort, physiological strain, hormonal skin issues.
Context of Use Conditions involving recurrent or episodic manifestations.
Patient Benefit Assists with maintaining functional stability and contributes to improved day-to-day comfort.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Desolett? — Official Regulatory Information

This medicine is contraindicated and must not be used by individuals with certain medical conditions, primarily those that increase the risk of serious blood clots or hormone-sensitive cancers, as defined in official regulatory labeling.


Eligibility Restrictions

Classification Restricted Populations
Contraindicated (Must Not Use) Women with a current or history of venous or arterial thromboembolism (e.g., Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism, Heart Attack, Stroke), or those with a known predisposition to blood clotting disorders (e.g., Factor V Leiden).
Contraindicated (Must Not Use) Individuals with current or history of breast cancer or other sex-steroid sensitive malignancies (e.g., certain genital organ cancers), or those with liver tumors (benign or malignant) or severe liver disease where liver function has not normalized.
Contraindicated (Must Not Use) Confirmed or suspected pregnancy, undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding, or hypersensitivity to the active substances (desogestrel, ethinylestradiol) or any excipients.
Not Recommended/Established Breastfeeding women (especially in the immediate postpartum period) and the pediatric population (safety and efficacy in adolescents under 18 years are not established).
Special Restriction Use must be discontinued at least four weeks before and for two weeks after major surgery or during any period of prolonged immobilization.

The official eligibility profile strictly prohibits use based on these absolute contraindications related to vascular health and hormone-sensitive conditions. The medicine is generally allowed only for women seeking contraception who have been assessed and found to be free of any of the documented contraindications or high-risk predisposing factors. Use is specifically not recommended immediately following childbirth due to an elevated risk of blood clots.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

The interaction profile of Desolett (Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol) is highly structured around substances that can alter the plasma concentrations of its active hormone components or increase safety risks, as defined by regulatory authorities.


Formally Documented Contraindicated Combinations

The co-administration of Desolett is prohibited with specific medicinal products:

  • Hepatitis C combination drug regimen: Including Ombitasvir, Paritaprevir, and Ritonavir (with or without Dasabuvir), due to the risk of significant liver enzyme elevation.
  • Fezolinetant: This combination is contraindicated because Ethinyl Estradiol can increase the plasma levels of Fezolinetant.
  • Oral Tranexamic Acid: Prohibited due to a pharmacodynamic synergism that increases the risk of thromboembolic events.

Exposure-Altering Interactions

Medicines that are strong inducers of liver enzymes (e.g., certain anticonvulsants) may decrease the plasma concentration of Desolett hormones, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Conversely, Ethinyl Estradiol can increase the serum concentrations of co-administered drugs like Alprazolam, which undergo oxidative metabolism. Atorvastatin may also increase Ethinyl Estradiol levels via P-glycoprotein inhibition.


Timing and Population Cautions

Specific procedural constraints exist, such as the requirement that Desolett be discontinued before and after treatment with certain HCV regimens. Furthermore, Desolett is contraindicated in females who are over 35 years of age and smoke, due to a heightened risk of serious cardiovascular events.

Mechanism of Action

Desolett, a combined hormonal contraceptive, contains the progestin desogestrel and the estrogen ethinylestradiol. Upon oral administration, desogestrel is rapidly converted to its active metabolite, etonogestrel. The primary mechanism of action involves the suppression of gonadotropins via a negative feedback loop targeting the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.

Etonogestrel acts as a progesterone receptor agonist in the pituitary, inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Ethinylestradiol also contributes to gonadotropin suppression and increases the hepatic synthesis of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds to etonogestrel and other androgens.

The resulting systemic hormonal modulation prevents the mid-cycle LH surge, which is the physiological trigger for ovulation. Intracellularly, etonogestrel modifies the cervical mucus, increasing its viscosity, and alters the endometrial lining, reducing cellular receptivity. These downstream cascades modulate the physiological processes necessary for the development of ovarian follicles and the transit of sperm.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Desolett: Official Administration Guidelines

Desolett is a combined hormonal contraceptive medication taken exclusively by the oral route as a tablet. The medication follows a standardized monophasic 28-day cyclic regimen, which is the fundamental administrative pattern for this class of product.


Standard Dosing and Schedule

Instruction Detail
Route of Administration Oral (by mouth)
Daily Dosing One tablet taken daily
Schedule 21 consecutive days of active tablets, followed by 7 consecutive days of inactive (placebo) tablets
Timing Must be taken at approximately the same time every day

Procedural Administration

Adherence to the daily timing is required to maintain consistent systemic hormone levels. The standard monophasic dose delivers a fixed 0.15 mg of Desogestrel and 0.03 mg of Ethinyl Estradiol in each active tablet. Users are required to start a new pack immediately following the completion of the 28-day cycle, ensuring there is no tablet-free interval beyond the designated seven inactive days.

If a tablet is missed, a defined management protocol exists that varies based on the time elapsed since the dose was due and the week of the cycle. For instance, if the first pack is initiated later than the first day of the menstrual cycle, a non-hormonal barrier method must be used for the first 7 days of the first cycle as a critical use-context constraint. The standard dosage is used for postpubertal adolescents and is fixed, as dose adjustments for this type of medication are not specified for this age group.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Desolett

Evidence for Use in Preventing Pregnancy (Contraception)

Large-scale Phase 3 clinical trials and specialized analyses were conducted in healthy women of reproductive age to evaluate the primary indication of preventing pregnancy. This research examined measures of event rates, such as the Pearl Index, and monitored key physiological changes like the degree of ovulation suppression and patterns of cycle control. Studies describe measurements on the Pearl Index, which is the standardized measure used for all contraceptive methods. Research describes patterns of inhibited ovulation and changes in cervical mucus consistency observed during the study period.

However, the precision of the Pearl Index calculation is highly sensitive to the level of user adherence observed in the real-world setting. Research documentation confirms that no contraceptive method is documented as achieving a zero-event rate.


Evidence for Management of Cyclical Distress

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews were conducted in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms, such as dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain). This research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort, tracking pain severity using standardized scales and assessing outcomes related to daily functioning. Trials described measurements of pain severity that were observed in the populations using the medicine and compared to those not using the medicine.

Findings related to psychological symptoms were observed in some studies but were mixed and inconsistent across the broader body of evidence. Comparative evidence against all available alternative treatments is lacking. This variability suggests low certainty regarding outcomes for specific psychological symptoms.


Evidence for Relief of Hormonal Skin Conditions

Comparative trials were evaluated in women with conditions such as acne vulgaris and hirsutism. The research examined outcomes linked to inflammatory states, including standardized scoring systems to quantify acne lesion counts. Studies also monitored androgen-related biomarkers, specifically Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG). Studies reported measurements of acne lesion counts that were observed over defined time intervals. Observed patterns included measurement data showing patterns in SHBG levels during administration.

Data are still emerging, as much of the evidence is derived from comparative trials rather than placebo-controlled research for the specific non-contraceptive uses. The body of evidence is heterogeneous across studies, and follow-up durations were limited for characterizing the long-term maintenance of skin condition outcomes.

Key Studies & References

  1. An Efficacy and Safety Study Comparing Oral Contraceptive Containing Norgestimate or Desogestrel for Acne Treatment (ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT01466673)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Desolett (FAQ)


Q: How quickly should I expect Desolett to start preventing pregnancy?

A: According to official instructions, if the start of the first pack occurs after the first day of the menstrual cycle, a non-hormonal barrier method is required to be used for the first 7 consecutive days of active tablets. This is required to help ensure consistent contraceptive protection during the initial treatment period.


Q: What happens if I miss a pill of Desolett?

A: The official product label provides a defined management protocol for a missed tablet. The required actions depend on how late the pill is and the specific week of the cycle. Users are directed to refer to the patient information leaflet or contact a healthcare professional for the specific steps.


Q: Can Desolett help with acne or skin issues?

A: Research evidence includes studies that have investigated the medicine for use in conditions such as acne vulgaris and hirsutism (excessive hair growth). Clinical trials for the medicine have included measuring outcomes for these non-contraceptive uses, such as tracking acne lesion counts and changes in certain androgen biomarkers.


Q: Does Desolett make periods lighter or heavier?

A: The official product information indicates that Desolett can cause changes in the bleeding pattern. Users may experience irregular bleeding or, in some cases, amenorrhea (a complete absence of bleeding), which suggests a modification to the typical menstrual flow.


Q: Is it normal to have spotting or breakthrough bleeding while on Desolett?

A: Yes, regulatory documents list irregular bleeding or breakthrough bleeding/spotting as an expected effect of combined hormonal contraceptives like Desolett. This is particularly common during the first few cycles of use as the body adjusts to the hormones.


Q: How effective is Desolett at preventing pregnancy with typical use?

A: Clinical trials evaluate the medicine’s efficacy using a standardized measure called the Pearl Index. While studies use the Pearl Index to measure effectiveness, regulatory documentation notes that no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and the failure rate is sensitive to adherence to the prescribed regimen.


Q: What should I do if I vomit shortly after taking a Desolett pill?

A: If vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs within 3 to 4 hours of taking an active tablet, the hormones may not be fully absorbed. Official instructions state this situation should be managed the same way as a missed pill.


Q: Why is it important to take Desolett at the same time every day?

A: Taking the tablet at approximately the same time every day is required to maintain consistent systemic hormone levels in the bloodstream. Consistent levels are necessary to help maintain the high degree of contraceptive efficacy.


Q: How does Desolett compare to non-hormonal birth control options?

A: Desolett is classified as a Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC), meaning it works through systemic hormonal regulation. Its efficacy is based on a triple inhibitory mechanism—primarily suppressing ovulation—which differs fundamentally from non-hormonal barrier or inert methods.


Q: Does Desolett typically cause weight gain or weight loss?

A: Official adverse reaction lists categorize weight increase as a common side effect reported by users of Desolett. Changes in body weight are a documented, expected effect of combined hormonal contraceptives.


Q: Can taking Desolett affect my mood or lead to mood swings?

A: Regulatory documents list both depressed mood and general mood changes as common adverse reactions. Users who experience persistent changes in mood are advised to consult a healthcare provider.


Q: Will Desolett completely stop my period?

A: The official side effect profile includes amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual bleeding) as a reported effect. If the period stops completely, a healthcare professional can determine if it is due to the medicine or another medical reason.


Q: How long after stopping Desolett should my regular menstrual cycle return?

A: Regulatory documents state that after discontinuing the treatment, the ovaries typically regain their normal function. This means it is possible for a woman to become pregnant again immediately after stopping the pill.


Q: Why do some women experience nausea when they first start taking Desolett?

A: Nausea is listed in the official safety profile as a common adverse reaction. This indicates that it is a frequently reported and expected initial side effect as the body adjusts to the active hormones.


Q: If I have a history of migraines, is Desolett a suitable choice?

A: The official label includes specific warnings regarding use in women with a history of migraines. Migraine with aura is listed as a contraindication, and a healthcare professional is required to assess suitability before prescribing Desolett to someone with a history of severe headaches or migraines.


Q: How long does it take for Desolett to leave my system after I stop taking it?

A: Based on its chemical structure, the active metabolite (etonogestrel) has a terminal half-life of approximately 30 hours. This figure dictates the rate at which the hormone is eliminated from the body following the last dose.


Q: Can taking Desolett interfere with liver function tests?

A: Yes, official safety information indicates that the use of combined hormonal contraceptives may affect the results of certain laboratory tests. This includes tests measuring hepatic (liver), renal, and other endocrine functions.


Q: Does Desolett affect fertility later in life?

A: Official efficacy studies suggest that the contraceptive effect of Desolett is reversible. The ovaries generally regain their normal function upon discontinuation, indicating no long-term impact on the ability to become pregnant later.


Q: Can Desolett cause hair loss or changes in hair growth?

A: Changes in hair growth are a documented side effect. Hirsutism (excessive or unwanted hair growth) is listed as an uncommon adverse reaction in the regulatory documents.


Q: Do antiepileptic drugs reduce the effectiveness of Desolett?

A: Official interaction information confirms that medications that are strong enzyme inducers can reduce the concentration of Desolett's hormones in the plasma. This group includes certain antiepileptic drugs, and their co-administration can lead to reduced contraceptive effectiveness.


Q: Is it normal to feel bloated when first starting Desolett?

A: Regulatory information lists fluid retention as an uncommon side effect and abdominal pain as a common side effect. These factors can contribute to a temporary feeling of being bloated, particularly when first starting the medication.


Q: Is there a link between Desolett and changes in libido?

A: Yes, the official list of adverse reactions includes decreased libido (sex drive) as an uncommon effect reported by users of Desolett.


Q: Can herbal teas or supplements interact with Desolett?

A: Official warnings specifically list herbal products containing St. John's Wort as a potential interacting agent. This is due to its effect as an enzyme inducer, which can reduce the effectiveness of the hormones in Desolett.


Q: What are the signs that Desolett might not be working for me?

A: The official product information describes warning signs for potential serious complications and reasons for immediate discontinuation. These include signs of blood clots or persistent problems like unexplained or recurrent abnormal vaginal bleeding, which may be signs that the medicine is not suitable or that efficacy is compromised.


Q: How often do I need to see a doctor when I am on Desolett?

A: The product's warnings and precautions section states that women using hormonal contraceptives require regular medical follow-up. This typically involves an annual medical examination to monitor health risks and suitability.

How should Desolett be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Desolett?

The storage and disposal instructions for Desolett are based strictly on official regulatory labeling to maintain product stability and safety.

Official Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Do not store the product above 30°C.
Protection Store in the original package to protect the tablets from moisture.
Child Safety Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Official Disposal Rules

To prevent environmental contamination, unused medicinal product and any waste material must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. The active substance has a documented environmental risk, particularly to aquatic life, which necessitates proper disposal through community take-back programs or as instructed by a pharmacist, rather than disposal via household waste or wastewater.

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

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