Klaira

Quick links to important sections

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Klaira

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Dienogest, Estradiol valerate
Form Film-coated tablets (Quadriphasic, 28-day regimen)
Pharmacological class Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC)
Common use Prevention of pregnancy (Contraception)
Manufacturer Bayer

What Type of Medicine is Klaira and What is its Primary Purpose?

Klaira is a prescription-only medication classified as a Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC), taken orally in the form of film-coated tablets. The primary and established function of this medication is fertility control, working systemically to prevent pregnancy. This medication is manufactured by Bayer and is often marketed under the name Natazia in some regions, such as the US.

This formulation is clinically recognized for its efficacy, being approved not only as a contraceptive but also for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) in women who lack underlying organic pathology and wish to use an oral contraceptive. This combination provides an option for women seeking an oral contraceptive who also experience substantial menstrual flow.


The Composition: Dienogest, Estradiol Valerate, and Differentiation

The product is defined by its two active components (INN): the progestogen Dienogest and the estrogen prodrug Estradiol valerate, combined into a single quadriphasic medication. Estradiol valerate is converted in the body to 17beta-Estradiol. This resulting 17beta-Estradiol is chemically identical to the primary natural estrogen produced endogenously, which is a differentiating feature from many older combined oral contraceptives that typically utilize the synthetic estrogen ethinylestradiol.

Klaira employs a unique four-phasic dose regimen delivered across the 28-day course, structured to closely mimic the body's natural hormonal cycle while ensuring robust contraceptive action. The use of estradiol valerate, compared to synthetic estrogens, may result in a less marked impact on certain metabolic markers and the coagulation system, indicating a potentially more moderate effect profile.

What side effects are possible with Klaira?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The medicine's safety profile is formally classified by regulatory authorities based on the frequency and the physiological system affected. The majority of reported adverse reactions are classified as common or uncommon and primarily involve the nervous system, reproductive system, and gastrointestinal system.


Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Frequency Category Representative Adverse Reactions
Common (ge 1/100) Headache, nausea, abdominal pain, breast discomfort/pain, acne, and menstrual disorders (e.g., amenorrhoea, irregular bleeding).
Uncommon (ge 1/1,000) Migraine, mood changes (including depressed mood), weight increase, and oedema (fluid retention).

Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

As with all combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs), the use of Klaira is associated with a rare, but serious, risk of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, and Arterial Thromboembolism (ATE), such as stroke or myocardial infarction. The risk of VTE is officially noted to be highest during the first year of use.

Regulatory documentation mandates that the medicine must not be used in individuals with severe hepatic disease or impairment, uncontrolled hypertension, or a history of thromboembolic events. Furthermore, irregular bleeding or spotting is officially stated to be more frequent during the first months of treatment initiation.

This regulatory structure is completed by clearly defining safety-related restrictions that mandate the drug should not be used in individuals with specific pre-existing conditions, such as severe liver disease or uncontrolled hypertension.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory documents for Klaira (Dienogest/Estradiol valerate) define a specific pattern for acute overdose. Regulatory bodies indicate that over-ingestion of the medication is generally associated with a low severity profile, as there have been no documented reports of serious deleterious effects following acute exposure.

The documented clinical manifestations of overdose are non-life-threatening and typically include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and vomiting. Additionally, a hormonal effect known as vaginal bleeding (or withdrawal bleeding) is officially listed as an expected presentation. A population-specific consideration notes that slight vaginal bleeding may also occur in young girls who have not yet reached menarche.

Regarding management, the official labeling explicitly states that no specific antidote is known for Klaira overdose. Consequently, treatment is limited to symptomatic and supportive measures to address the presenting signs.

Regulators mandate that individuals seek emergency medical attention immediately upon suspected overdose. Contacting the Poison Help line or local emergency services is the required course of action whenever an overdose of Klaira is suspected.

Therapeutic Uses of Klaira

Klaira (known as Natazia in the U.S.) is commonly used for contraception and is relevant for easing certain symptomatic discomfort and functional strain. The medication is used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms across two main areas: contraception (a method used to help reduce the likelihood of pregnancy) and the symptomatic relief of heavy and/or prolonged menstrual bleeding (HMB).

The primary use of Klaira is for contraception, which may assist with reproductive planning. This application is generally considered relevant for assisting with functional stability and supporting general well-being.

Klaira is also relevant for easing the symptoms associated with HMB in women who desire oral contraception and whose condition involves no underlying structural cause. This secondary use helps manage symptoms related to systemic imbalance and physiological strain caused by excessive blood loss.

This supportive therapy contributes to easing the overall symptom load and helps improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

“Its application is commonly used to help with symptom management where increased discomfort or tension is present.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Heavy Periods Klaira supports the patient during episodes of heightened discomfort by being relevant for easing the overall symptom burden associated with HMB.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Klaira (Natazia) is authorized for use in females of reproductive potential for contraception and the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. However, official regulatory documents define several absolute exclusions (contraindications) and population-specific restrictions.

Contraindicated Populations

Use of Klaira is strictly contraindicated in females with:

  • A high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases, including a history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, or heart attack.
  • Known or suspected breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive malignancies.
  • Active severe hepatic disease or liver tumors.
  • Uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes mellitus with vascular disease.
  • Pregnancy or undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding.
  • Females over age 35 who smoke.

Age and Special Status Restrictions

  • Age: The product is not indicated in females before menarche and safety/efficacy has not been established in postmenopausal women.
  • Lactation: Use is not recommended while breastfeeding.
  • Surgery: The product must be stopped at least 4 weeks before and through 2 weeks after major surgery associated with an elevated risk of blood clots.
  • BMI: Contraceptive efficacy has not been evaluated in women with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of >30 kg/m^2.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Regulatory documents define Klaira's eligibility by the absolute exclusion of populations presenting elevated vascular risk, current or history of hormone-sensitive malignancies, or severe liver impairment, while also restricting use based on age and physiological status.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Klaira’s official interaction profile is defined primarily by pharmacokinetic interactions that alter the systemic exposure of its active hormones, Dienogest and Estradiol, as documented in government regulatory sources. These interactions are categorized based on their effect on hormonal clearance.

Interaction Type Examples of Interacting Substances Official Outcome
Increased Clearance (Enzyme Induction) Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Barbiturates Causes significant decrease in exposure, potentially leading to diminished efficacy.
Reduced Clearance (Enzyme Inhibition) Ketoconazole, Erythromycin, Ritonavir Leads to increased plasma concentrations of Dienogest and Estradiol, noted for specific inhibitors.

Substances that increase hormonal clearance, such as certain antiepileptic medicines and the herbal product St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), are documented to reduce contraceptive effectiveness. For instance, the strong enzyme inducer Rifampicin is reported to decrease the exposure of both hormones by over 40%. Conversely, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, like the antifungal Ketoconazole, may increase hormone levels. Regulatory constraints state that women taking strong enzyme-inducing agents should not use Klaira as their oral contraceptive. Furthermore, the official label notes that certain combinations of HIV/HCV protease inhibitors and NNRTIs may cause unpredictable changes (increase or decrease) in hormonal concentrations, requiring detailed guidance.

Mechanism of Action

Estradiol valerate/dienogest is a pharmacological agent comprising an estrogen prodrug and a progestin. Its mechanism utilizes a dynamic, multi-phase dosing schedule to exert its effects and relies on coordinated receptor activation across two main mechanistic domains to achieve its physiological consequences.

Central Signaling Cascade: HPO Axis Suppression

Klaira's active components, particularly the progestin dienogest, contribute a negative feedback signal to the brain and pituitary gland. This mechanistic signal dampens the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are critical signaling mediators in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This interference with the central cascade prevents the LH surge required for follicular development and subsequent ovulation.

Peripheral Receptor-Mediated Barrier Effects

Beyond the central effects, the hormones act peripherally by binding to their respective progesterone and estrogen receptors in the reproductive tract tissues. This action modifies the consistency of the cervical mucus, thickening it to create a dense barrier that impedes sperm transport. It also promotes endometrial thinning. These mechanistic changes modify early molecular steps, resulting in specific physiological changes.

Dosage and Administration Information

Instruction Map: How to use Klaira — administration guidelines

Administration Scope

Instruction Detail
Route of administration Oral use.
Dosing schedule One tablet daily for 28 consecutive days, following the predetermined, quadriphasic sequence on the blister pack.
Timing in relation to meals Intake is independent of meals.
Preparation requirements Tablets are to be swallowed whole with liquid.
Age-group administration rules For women of childbearing potential. Postpartum initiation is no earlier than 4 weeks postpartum for non-breastfeeding women.
Missed-dose rules Delay in taking an active tablet by more than 12 hours may reduce efficacy, requiring adherence to specific missed-dose guidance outlined in the patient information.
Special procedural conditions The sequence of tablet-taking must follow the arrows on the blister pack exactly.

Instruction Classifications (High-level)

Classification Detail
Administration method type Oral (film-coated tablets).
Frequency pattern Daily and continuous use (28-day cycle with no hormone-free interval).
Use-context constraints A non-hormonal back-up method is required for the first 9 days when the pack is initiated under specific conditions (e.g., postpartum or switching from certain other methods).

Resulting Procedural Structure

Step sequence:

  • Take one tablet daily at approximately the same time every day.
  • Tablets must be taken in the fixed, sequential order as directed by the pack’s numbering and color progression.
  • Start the next new 28-day pack on the day immediately following the last tablet of the previous pack, ensuring no tablet-free interval.

Connection to the overall use protocol (2–4 sentences):

The administration protocol involves strict daily and sequential oral intake to maintain the integrity of the quadriphasic dosing progression intended for the medication. This continuous 28-day cycle, defined by a fixed daily dose and precise adherence timing, establishes the standardized pattern for its use. The procedural steps and adherence constraints detail the specific requirements necessary for proper usage.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Klaira

This section provides an overview of the official research studies and clinical trials that have examined Klaira, focusing only on the type of evidence available and what was observed so far, without offering medical advice.


Evidence for Use in Contraception (Preventing Pregnancy)

Research into Klaira’s use for pregnancy prevention was evaluated for outcomes in healthy women of reproductive age. The core evidence comes primarily from large-scale Phase III clinical trials conducted in many centers around the world. These studies monitored outcomes for defined time intervals, typically following participants over the course of 13 treatment cycles, which is approximately one year.

Researchers primarily used the Pearl Index to measure the frequency of unintended pregnancies in the study population. These trials also examined patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and monitored the stability and regularity of bleeding patterns across the cycles.

What remains uncertain: While the core trials provide the primary evidence for this use, limited information exists for long-term outcomes that characterize patterns after many years of use. Furthermore, the results apply only to the populations studied, with data for certain groups remaining insufficient, specifically regarding outcomes in women with a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m^2.


Evidence for Use in Managing Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB)

Klaira was evaluated in women with heavy and/or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), a condition associated with acute or disruptive episodes. The key evidence for this use comes from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, a study design used for regulatory evaluation. In these trials, the treatment was observed in comparison against an inactive pill (placebo).

Research examined outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance caused by blood loss. The studies reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, noting that a defined proportion of women in the active treatment group met specific criteria for an outcome related to reduced blood loss, which data show was observed in the study.

Long-Term Research and Follow-Up Data

The available evidence primarily focuses on short- to intermediate-term outcomes (up to one year). Follow-up durations were limited beyond this time frame in the initial phase of research. Evidence suggests that the studies provide context regarding symptom patterns and cycle stability over the first year of use. However, long-term effects are not fully established.

What Remains Unclear or Under-Studied

The main research limitation frames are clear: Comparative evidence is lacking for certain outcomes against other established treatments for HMB. Also, the established evidence does not extend to HMB in women with underlying structural causes, as these individuals were not the focus of the main efficacy trials. Findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Klaira (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between Klaira and other common birth control pills?

A: Klaira is formulated with estradiol valerate, which the body quickly converts into 17β-estradiol. This is chemically identical to the natural estrogen produced by the body, according to official product information. This differs from many other combined oral contraceptives which typically use synthetic estrogens.

Q: Why does Klaira have four different colored pills in the pack?

A: Klaira uses a quadriphasic or four-phase dosing regimen. Regulatory documents explain that this design changes the hormone dose throughout the 28-day cycle to more closely mimic the body's natural hormonal fluctuations while still providing effective contraception.

Q: Can I take Klaira if I have a history of migraines?

A: According to official product information, Klaira is strictly contraindicated (must not be used) if a woman has a history of migraine with focal neurological symptoms (such as migraine with aura). This restriction aligns with regulatory warnings regarding the potential for increased thromboembolic risk, including stroke, associated with combined hormonal contraceptives.

Q: Do certain antibiotics make Klaira less effective?

A: Yes, medicines that cause enzyme induction can reduce Klaira's effectiveness. For instance, the antibiotic Rifampicin is documented in regulatory sources to significantly decrease the concentration of Klaira’s hormones in the blood. This reduction can make the contraception less effective.

Q: Is Klaira approved for use in women over 35?

A: Official regulatory documents state that Klaira is contraindicated (must not be used) in women over age 35 who smoke due to the significantly increased risk of blood clots. For non-smoking women over 35, the specific contraindication related to smoking does not apply, but the medication requires a careful assessment of individual cardiovascular risk factors prior to use, as required by regulatory guidance.

Q: What should I do if I experience nausea after starting Klaira?

A: Nausea is a common side effect of combined oral contraceptives. Official regulatory information advises that if nausea is severe or persistent over time, it is important that a healthcare professional be informed to assess the condition and determine whether discontinuation or alternative action is required.

Q: Why is the hormone dose in Klaira designed to change throughout the month?

A: Klaira utilizes a quadriphasic (four-phase) dose design. This structure, according to regulatory documents, aims to deliver a varying hormone level across the 28 days to more closely mimic the body's natural hormonal cycle while ensuring continuous contraceptive action.

Q: Does Klaira affect how well other prescription medicines work?

A: Yes, combined hormonal contraceptives can affect the metabolism (how the body processes) of certain other prescription medicines. Official documents state this can lead to either an increase or a decrease in the concentration of those medicines in the blood.

Q: Can Klaira be used to regulate an irregular menstrual cycle?

A: Klaira is approved for the treatment of heavy and/or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) in women who also wish to use an oral contraceptive. While its use typically results in a predictable bleeding pattern, its primary indication is not for general cycle regulation alone.

Q: How does Klaira compare to pills that use different progestins?

A: Klaira contains the progestin dienogest. Regulatory information notes that this component is characterized by having antiandrogenic partial effects (meaning it can counteract the effects of male hormones). This is a differentiating characteristic compared to certain other progestins found in COCs.

Q: What is the role of the white inactive pills in the pack?

A: The final two white pills in the pack are inactive (placebo) tablets, meaning they contain no hormones. Their primary purpose is procedural: they ensure the user maintains the routine of taking one pill daily and prevents any tablet-free interval between packs.

Q: Does Klaira affect appetite or cause fluid retention?

A: The official safety profile lists oedema (fluid retention) as an uncommon side effect associated with Klaira use. However, changes in appetite are not listed among the common or uncommon adverse reactions in the regulatory documents.

Q: Is Klaira considered safe for women with a history of depression?

A: Klaira is associated with the uncommon adverse reaction of mood changes, including depressed mood. Regulatory documents state that if a woman develops a clinically relevant depression while using the product, it should be discontinued. Eligibility for individuals with a history of depression requires a careful professional risk assessment.

Q: Does Klaira work immediately after starting the first pack?

A: If the tablets are started on the first day of the menstrual cycle, contraceptive protection begins immediately, according to official guidelines. If starting on days 2-5, a barrier method (non-hormonal back-up) is required for the first seven days of the cycle.

Q: What are the most common reasons someone might stop taking Klaira?

A: Regulatory documents list the most critical reasons requiring immediate discontinuation. These include the aggravation or first appearance of serious conditions such as venous or arterial thromboembolism (blood clots), uncontrolled hypertension, or severe liver disease.

Q: How quickly does fertility return after stopping Klaira?

A: Official information regarding combined oral contraceptives generally states that after discontinuing the pill, the return to fertility is comparable to that of women who have not used contraception. Ovulation is often observed to resume within the first month after the last tablet is taken, reflecting the general pattern seen after discontinuing COCs.

Q: Is Klaira a low-dose birth control pill?

A: In clinical studies, Klaira's safety profile has been assessed and found to be consistent with the established safety profile of other low-dose Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs), according to regulatory summaries.

Q: Are there any known issues with Klaira and vision changes?

A: Regulatory warnings indicate that, extremely rarely, the use of combined hormonal contraceptives is associated with thrombosis (blood clots) occurring in the retinal veins and arteries. This is a serious event that could lead to vision changes and requires immediate medical attention.

Q: Is Klaira known to affect cholesterol levels?

A: Yes, official warnings state that the use of Klaira may influence the results of certain laboratory tests. This includes parameters for lipid plasma levels (such as cholesterol), indicating that the effect of the medication should be assessed.

Q: How long does it typically take for initial side effects of Klaira to go away?

A: For the most common initial effect, irregular bleeding or spotting, regulatory documents state that this is officially noted to be more frequent during the first months of treatment. This pattern often resolves as the body adjusts to the medication.

Q: Does Klaira protect against sexually transmitted infections?

A: No. Like all combined hormonal contraceptives, Klaira is designed to prevent pregnancy. Official regulatory documents clearly state that it does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) or any other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Q: Can taking Klaira affect the results of blood tests?

A: Yes. The use of Klaira may influence the results of certain laboratory tests, according to official warnings. This includes affecting parameters related to the function of the liver, thyroid, adrenal, and renal systems.

Q: What are the signs that Klaira is not working properly?

A: Regulatory documents list severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention. These include signs of a blood clot such as severe pain or swelling in a leg, sudden severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden partial or complete vision loss.

Q: Is it possible to develop an allergy to Klaira's ingredients?

A: Yes. Klaira is contraindicated (must not be used) in individuals with known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the active substances (Dienogest or Estradiol valerate) or to any of the non-active ingredients listed in the product's composition.

Q: Does Klaira interact with thyroid medication?

A: Yes. The estrogen component in Klaira can affect the body's levels of thyroid-binding globulin. For individuals with hypothyroidism, this change may affect the body's need for thyroid hormone replacement therapy, as noted in official interaction summaries.

How should Klaira be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Klaira?

Klaira (also known as Natazia) must be stored according to specific requirements defined in official regulatory documents to ensure product stability. This information is descriptive and not intended as medical advice.

Official Storage Requirements

  • Temperature: Store at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with permitted short excursions up to 30 C.
  • Protection: Keep the tablets in a cool, dry place and leave them in the original blister pack until the time of administration.
  • Safety: The medication must be stored out of the reach of children.

Disposal

Disposal of any unused or expired tablets should follow local requirements and regulations for discarding prescription drugs, as recommended in official prescribing information.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Klaira found in:

A-Z Index: