Kleodina

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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 Kleodina

Property Description
Active Ingredients Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel
Form Oral Tablets
Pharmacological Class Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC)
Common Use Prevention of Pregnancy
Origin Synthetic Hormones

What Type of Medicine is Kleodina?

Kleodina is a prescription-only medicine and a specialized hormonal preparation classified as a Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC). Its pharmacological class is defined as an Estrogen and Progestin Combination, a category of medication clinically recognized for its reliability in reproductive control. The medicine is specifically intended for systemic administration via the oral route.

The identity of Kleodina is rooted in its primary general purpose: highly effective prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive age. The formulation utilizes a specific pairing of estrogen and progestin to achieve this contraceptive objective.

Composition and Origin: The Combination of Synthetic Hormones

Kleodina is a fixed-dose combination drug containing two distinct active ingredients: Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel. These substances are synthetic hormones chemically engineered to mimic the effects of the body's natural estrogen and progesterone, thus facilitating its systemic action.

The tablets deliver both the Estrogen component (Ethinyl Estradiol) and the Progestin component (Levonorgestrel). This specific formulation distinguishes itself by utilizing Levonorgestrel, a progestin known for its extensive history of use in oral contraceptives.

How Does Kleodina Provide Contraceptive Protection?

Kleodina provides contraception through a systematic and layered mechanism of effect. The synthetic hormones primarily act to achieve the essential inhibition of ovulation, meaning an egg is not released from the ovary.

Furthermore, the Progestin component creates a crucial secondary barrier by significantly increasing the viscosity of the cervical mucus, making it much more challenging for sperm to pass through. These coordinated high-level actions, along with altering the endometrial lining, define the comprehensive function of Kleodina in achieving robust prevention of pregnancy.

Regulatory References

  1. Contraception - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

What side effects are possible with Kleodina?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Kleodina is formally structured by regulatory authorities based on the expected occurrence and severity of adverse reactions. These effects are classified using standard frequency categories, ensuring a precise understanding of possible outcomes.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The most frequent effects are generally observed at the start of use:

  • Very Common (ge 1/10): Includes headache and irregular uterine bleeding (spotting or breakthrough bleeding).
  • Common (ge 1/100 to <1/10): Includes migraine, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, acne, abdominal pain, and weight increase.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Domains

The most serious documented concerns relate to the Vascular Disorders system-organ class. These include the risk of Venous Thromboembolism (DVT, PE), Arterial Thromboembolism (Stroke, Myocardial Infarction), and the development of Hypertension. The official safety documents also note rare risks related to Hepatic Neoplasia (liver tumors).

Time- and Population-Related Safety Patterns

Safety data indicate that the risk of VTE is formally highest during the first year of use and when restarting the medicine after a break of four weeks or more. Furthermore, the medicine is formally restricted for use in smokers over 35 years of age due to a significantly increased risk of serious cardiovascular events. Constraints also exist regarding individuals with certain pre-existing conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension or a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose of Kleodina (Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel) is defined by regulatory authorities as typically having a low risk of acute, life-threatening outcomes. Officially documented clinical signs and symptoms, which are generally not severe, primarily involve the gastrointestinal and reproductive systems. The most common manifestations reported following ingestion of amounts exceeding the prescribed dose are nausea and vomiting. Withdrawal bleeding is a further documented effect that may occur in females of reproductive age, including specific considerations for young females who have not yet reached menarche.

Immediate medical attention must be sought in all cases of suspected overdose, according to regulatory guidelines. Individuals are required to contact a physician, hospital, or poison control center immediately for assessment and professional guidance, regardless of the apparent severity. This is crucial because no specific antidote is known for an overdose of this combined oral contraceptive. Therefore, the required medical management detailed in regulatory documents focuses on providing symptomatic and supportive treatment. This standard procedural action ensures that any clinical manifestations, such as persistent vomiting, are managed safely and effectively under medical supervision.

Therapeutic Uses of Kleodina

Kleodina is used across three primary therapeutic domains, offering patient-oriented benefits that may extend beyond its fundamental role. The medication is relevant in clinical settings where patients experience symptoms that interfere with daily comfort. As a combined oral contraceptive (COC), it is formally indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive potential.

The medication is commonly used in scenarios requiring a systematic, effective method for fertility regulation, which contributes to improved day-to-day control and stability. Additionally, it may be part of symptomatic management for conditions presenting with disruptive symptom manifestations. These include severe menstrual cramping (dysmenorrhea), heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), and external manifestations like moderate acne vulgaris and hirsutism.

“The therapy may assist the patient in coping more steadily with difficult episodes and help maintain a sense of stability during symptomatic periods.”

In these contexts, Kleodina is applied in addressing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, offering supportive relief that helps patients cope more steadily with these manifestations.


Quick Fact: Relief for Menstrual Distress The medication is commonly used to help ease the overall symptom burden associated with painful and heavy menstrual periods, which supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Kleodina — Official Regulatory Information

Populations for whom use is allowed:

  • Females of reproductive potential, specifically those post-menarche.

Populations for whom use is contraindicated:

  • Females over age 35 who smoke cigarettes, due to a heightened risk of serious cardiovascular events, including blood clots, stroke, or heart attack.
  • Females with current or a history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or cerebrovascular disease.
  • Females with migraine headaches with aura at any age, or any migraine headaches in females over age 35.
  • Females with uncontrolled hypertension or hypertension with associated vascular disease.
  • Females with a history of or current breast cancer or other known or suspected estrogen-sensitive cancer.
  • Females with liver tumors, acute viral hepatitis, or severe (decompensated) cirrhosis.
  • Females who are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
  • Females using Hepatitis C drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir.

Age and Physiological Status Rules:

  • Use is not indicated for females before menarche (pre-pubescent) or for post-menopausal women.
  • Use is generally not recommended for nursing mothers as it may affect milk production.
  • The medicine must be stopped at least four weeks before and through two weeks after major surgery or any period of prolonged immobilization.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Kleodina is defined by strict regulatory prohibitions and documented pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic conflicts with other medicinal products.


Strictly Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration is formally prohibited with certain anti-Hepatitis C viral (HCV) drug regimens, including combinations containing Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/Ritonavir or Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir. This constraint is necessary due to the documented potential for significant elevation of liver enzymes (ALT). A mandatory procedural constraint is that Kleodina must be stopped before initiating such treatments and can only be restarted 2 weeks following completion of the full HCV drug regimen.


Clinically Significant Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Co-administration with potent Enzyme Inducers (e.g., strong CYP3A4 inducers and the herbal product St. John’s Wort) causes a reduction in the plasma concentrations of the contraceptive hormones. The regulatory outcome of this pharmacokinetic conflict is reduced contraceptive effectiveness. Conversely, Kleodina may also affect the levels of other drugs, resulting in increased plasma concentrations of medicines like Ciclosporin or causing sub-therapeutic levels of Lamotrigine due to induced metabolism.


Pharmacodynamic Interference

The combined hormones may exert an officially documented antagonistic effect that decreases the therapeutic action of certain co-administered drugs. This pharmacodynamic interference applies notably to anticoagulants and other hormonal therapies, where the intended effect of the co-administered drug is diminished.

Mechanism of Action

How Kleodina Works

Targeting Key Receptor and Enzyme Systems

Kleodina acts through the targeted engagement of specific biological receptors and enzyme systems. This initial interaction modulates the activity of these core proteins by initiating antagonism or allosteric changes, which influences the subsequent cellular signaling processes.

Modulating Intracellular Signaling Cascades

The action at the receptor or enzyme level triggers a modification of molecular signaling cascades inside the cell. Kleodina influences the flow of signal transduction, thereby modifying the levels of crucial intracellular messengers and the phosphorylation state of regulatory proteins. This influence restricts signal transmission downstream within the targeted pathway.

Systemic Pathway Modulation

The molecular effects influence activity within specific neural or humoral pathways. This action modulates established activity patterns in the targeted pathways, resulting in an altered systemic physiological state which characterizes the drug's mechanism of effect.

Dosage and Administration Information

Kleodina is administered exclusively via the oral route for systemic use, consistent with its form as a Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) tablet. The official usage protocol is defined by a rigorous daily dosing schedule that must be maintained at the same time every day to ensure a constant 24-hour interval between doses.

The standard administration involves cyclic regimens. The most common approach involves taking one active tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by seven days of an inactive tablet, constituting a 28-day course. Alternatively, some regimens utilize an extended cycle where active tablets are taken for 84 consecutive days before the seven-day inactive period. The active tablet typically delivers a dose of 0.15 mg Levonorgestrel and 0.03 mg Ethinyl Estradiol. Tablets must be taken in the order directed on the sequenced dispenser pack.

Regarding administration conditions, the medicine can be taken without regard to food. Procedural constraints dictate that when initiating treatment using the Sunday Start method, a non-hormonal back-up method must be used for the first seven days. For postpartum administration, the medicine should not be started until four weeks after delivery in females who are not breastfeeding. Management of gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or severe diarrhea occurring within a few hours of an active dose, is governed by specific instructions for missed doses.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Kleodina


Evidence Supporting Contraceptive Use

Research into Kleodina’s primary purpose—the prevention of pregnancy—was evaluated through numerous studies over time. These include Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and very large-scale observational studies enrolling healthy women of reproductive age. The key outcome researchers monitored was the measurement of the Pearl Index (PI), which tracks the rate of unintended pregnancies. Studies describe patterns in the calculated rates of unintended pregnancy based on both perfect adherence and typical adherence (real-world use). While extensive data covers intermediate-term use, long-term effects are not fully established through randomized trial formats, though many years of real-world use have been observed.


Evidence for Managing Menstrual Symptoms

The use of this type of combined oral contraceptive was studied for the symptomatic management of severe menstrual cramping (dysmenorrhea) and heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). Research includes RCTs and subsequent systematic reviews that examined outcomes such as patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and measurements of menstrual blood loss volume. Trials reported measurements of changes in menstrual pain severity scores in the study groups. The evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns documented across systematic reviews evaluating this class of medications, though follow-up durations were limited in some primary studies.


Evidence for Dermatological Support

Research has explored the supportive use of this formulation for moderate acne vulgaris and hirsutism (excessive hair growth). Studies include RCTs comparing the medicine to a placebo or to other COC formulations. Research examined outcomes such as the assessment of acne lesion counts and hair growth/density. Studies report measurements related to changes in acne lesion counts and changes in global appearance scores. Comparative evidence is lacking for clear differentiation between this specific Levonorgestrel formulation and all other available COCs for long-term skin conditions, and follow-up durations were limited for acne studies.


Evidence Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

The research presents areas where certainty remains low. The primary limitation for all indications is the consistent need to distinguish between perfect use and typical use in the real world. Furthermore, data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, limited information for long-term outcomes is available for women with specific or severe comorbidities (additional, pre-existing health conditions) that were often excluded from the primary efficacy trials.

Key Studies & References

  1. Combined oral contraceptive pill for primary dysmenorrhoea (Cochrane Review)
  2. Combined hormonal contraceptives for heavy menstrual bleeding (Cochrane Review)
  3. Combined oral contraceptives for treatment of acne: a systematic review (relevant to lesion count changes)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Kleodina (FAQ)

Q: Is Kleodina considered a long-term or short-term treatment?

A: Kleodina, like other combined oral contraceptives, is generally designed for continuous, long-term use for the purpose of preventing pregnancy. Official information states that the risk of serious side effects, such as blood clots, is generally highest when starting the medicine or during the first year of continuous use.

Q: Is it normal to feel tired or dizzy after starting Kleodina?

A: Dizziness is a documented common side effect of this medication. Other effects, including feelings of weakness, lack of energy, or fatigue, have also been reported in association with the drug.

Q: Is Kleodina safe for people with known liver or kidney issues?

A: Official regulatory information provides specific contraindications for active liver disease, liver tumors, or severe cirrhosis. Formal regulatory information does not contain specific studies evaluating the effect of pre-existing kidney disease on the drug’s action or safety.

Q: Does Kleodina have any known long-term side effects?

A: Official safety information notes that serious long-term risks are documented. These include an increased risk of blood clots, hypertension (high blood pressure), and the potential for gallbladder disease with prolonged use. A slightly increased risk of liver tumors has also been observed in women who use the medication for more than eight years.

Q: Are there any commonly reported mild interactions between Kleodina and herbal remedies?

A: Official documents stress the importance of providing a complete list of all medications, including herbal products and supplements, due to the risk of interactions. The potent herbal product St. John’s Wort is specifically warned against because it can reduce the effectiveness of the hormones in the pill.

Q: Is Kleodina a new drug, or has it been around for a while?

A: The Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol hormone combination is well-established. This formulation was initially approved for use in the U.S. over four decades ago, in 1982.

Q: What are the signs that Kleodina is actually working for me?

A: The primary way the medicine works is through the prevention of pregnancy. The medication also typically causes expected withdrawal bleeding, which is similar to a menstrual period, when the inactive tablets are taken.

Q: Can Kleodina affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

A: While no explicit regulatory warning against driving is issued, common side effects such as dizziness are documented. Additionally, serious side effects, like sudden changes in vision (which can be signs of a stroke), could potentially affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Q: Is Kleodina meant to cure the condition, or just manage symptoms?

A: Kleodina is officially indicated for the prevention of pregnancy and is not considered a cure. The medicine is also used to help manage symptoms associated with certain conditions, such as heavy menstrual bleeding and acne.

Q: What research evidence exists for Kleodina in younger adults?

A: This medication is officially indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. Dosing for prepubescent children is not indicated in the regulatory information.

Q: Is the effectiveness of Kleodina consistent across different populations?

A: Official information indicates that effectiveness is highly dependent on adherence; effectiveness may be reduced when tablets are missed or not taken as directed. The risk of serious cardiovascular events is also noted to be greater among certain populations, such as women over age 35 who smoke or have uncontrolled hypertension.

Q: What evidence is there regarding the safety of Kleodina over several years?

A: Safety data indicates the risk of blood clots is generally highest during the first year of use. Regulatory documentation notes that a slightly increased risk of liver tumors has been observed in women who use the medication for more than eight years.

Q: How quickly should I expect Kleodina to start having an effect?

A: According to the official patient instructions, the body requires at least 7 days to adjust before the medication is fully effective at preventing pregnancy. Official patient information indicates that a non-hormonal back-up method is needed for the first week of use.

Q: What happens if I miss a scheduled time for Kleodina?

A: Official patient instructions contain specific, detailed procedures for managing missed doses, which vary depending on the number of pills missed and where you are in the cycle. Following this instruction is essential for maintaining contraceptive protection.

Q: Are there any foods or drinks I should absolutely avoid while on Kleodina?

A: The medicine can be taken without regard to food, but official regulatory information suggests that consumption of Grapefruit Juice may be associated with an increased risk of certain side effects.

Q: Does Kleodina interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

A: Some common ingredients in over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Acetaminophen, are listed in interaction databases as potentially affecting the hormone levels in the blood. Users should be sure to provide a full list of all medications to their doctor.

Q: Are there any specific lifestyle changes recommended when using Kleodina?

A: Official regulatory warnings emphasize that females should not smoke cigarettes while taking this medication, particularly if they are over 35 years old. This restriction is necessary due to the significantly increased risk of serious cardiovascular events.

Q: Do I need a special blood test or monitoring while taking Kleodina?

A: Official information states that monitoring blood pressure may be required for females with controlled hypertension. Monitoring of blood glucose may also be advised for women with prediabetes or diabetes.

Q: Can Kleodina affect my sleep patterns?

A: Yes, difficulty in sleeping (insomnia) is listed as a potential side effect in regulatory-based patient information.

Q: What should I do if the side effects of Kleodina seem too bothersome?

A: If you experience any symptoms that are severe, persistent, or do not go away, official guidelines state that patients should call their doctor immediately. If a serious or life-threatening reaction is suspected, emergency medical care is needed.

Q: What are the restrictions for people with known allergies while taking Kleodina?

A: Official safety information notes that the medicine is generally restricted for individuals who have had a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling or hives, to the active or inactive ingredients in the pill.

Q: What does the FDA or EMA classification mean for Kleodina?

A: Regulatory bodies classify Kleodina as a Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC). This means it is a hormonal medication combining two different types of synthetic hormones and is indicated primarily for the prevention of pregnancy.

Q: Can I take Kleodina if I have diabetes or high cholesterol?

A: The official label indicates that careful use is required for females with diabetes or uncontrolled high cholesterol (dyslipidemia). This is because the risk of serious cardiovascular events is higher in these populations, and ongoing monitoring may be required.

Q: Why are there warnings about alcohol consumption with Kleodina?

A: Regulatory sources suggest consulting a healthcare provider about the use of alcohol while taking this medicine. This is due to potential changes in the risk of certain side effects.

Q: What happens if I take Kleodina for longer than prescribed?

A: Official patient instructions state that the prescribed dosage and duration should not be exceeded. Symptoms of an overdose may include non-specific effects such as nausea, vomiting, and tiredness.

Q: Why do some people need a higher dose of Kleodina than others?

A: Kleodina is a fixed-dose combination drug, meaning that the amount of active medication in each tablet is standardized. The dosing schedule is consistent for all users, and individual dosage adjustments are not typically indicated in the labeling.

Q: What are the potential effects of stopping Kleodina suddenly?

A: Official information states that when stopping the active tablets, you will likely experience withdrawal bleeding, which is similar to a menstrual period.

Q: Does Kleodina interact with common cold or flu medications?

A: Some common ingredients found in cold and flu medications, such as Acetaminophen, are listed in interaction databases as potentially affecting the hormone levels. Users should ensure they provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter products, to their doctor.

Q: Is the main use of Kleodina the same worldwide?

A: Yes, the primary indication for this Levonorgestrel/Ethinyl Estradiol combination across major global authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the FDA, is the prevention of pregnancy.

Q: Does Kleodina make you sensitive to sunlight?

A: Regulatory-based patient information notes that this medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. It is advised that protective measures, such as using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, should be considered.

Q: Are there official guidelines on what to do if a side effect occurs?

A: Yes, official patient instructions state that patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency medical care if they experience any signs of a serious side effect, such as symptoms of a blood clot or stroke.

Q: How common are serious allergic reactions to Kleodina?

A: Allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or hives, are documented in safety data. They are officially listed as a serious adverse reaction.

How should Kleodina be stored and disposed of?

The storage and disposal of this medicine, which contains Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel, must adhere to official regulatory requirements to ensure product quality.

Storage Conditions

Scope Item Official Regulatory Statement
Storage Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Excursions up to 30 C are permitted.
Packaging Rules Must be kept in the original container (blister pack or dispenser) as dispensed.
Child Safety Mandatory to keep the product out of the reach of children.

Disposal

Any unused or expired product must be disposed of according to local regulations for pharmaceutical waste. Disposal should utilize official drug take-back programs or local waste facility guidelines.

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

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