Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: CYCLESSA versus NORLESTRIN 21 2 5 50.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: CYCLESSA versus NORLESTRIN 21 2 5 50.
CYCLESSA vs NORLESTRIN 21 2.5/50
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Combination of estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (desogestrel) inhibits ovulation by suppressing gonadotropin release, increases viscosity of cervical mucus to impede sperm penetration, and alters endometrial receptivity.
Combination oral contraceptive containing an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (norethindrone acetate). Inhibits ovulation by suppressing gonadotropin release. Increases viscosity of cervical mucus, impeding sperm penetration, and alters endometrial receptivity.
One tablet (0.15 mg desogestrel/0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol) orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days of placebo.
One tablet orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days off, then repeat.
None Documented
None Documented
Desogestrel: 38±13 hours (terminal); ethinyl estradiol: 14±3 hours (terminal). Steady-state reached after 7-10 days.
Norethindrone: 8 hours (terminal); Ethinyl estradiol: 13 hours (terminal). Clinical context: Steady-state achieved after 3-5 days; dosing interval based on once-daily administration.
Urine (50-60% as metabolites, <10% unchanged); feces (30-40% as metabolites); enterohepatic circulation.
Renal: 50-60% as metabolites (glucuronide and sulfate conjugates of norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol); fecal: 30-40% via biliary elimination; <1% unchanged.
Category C
Category C
Oral Contraceptive
Oral Contraceptive