Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEMULEN 1 35 21 versus LEVORA 0 15 30 21.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEMULEN 1 35 21 versus LEVORA 0 15 30 21.
DEMULEN 1/35-21 vs LEVORA 0.15/30-21
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Combination oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol (estrogen) and ethynodiol diacetate (progestin). Inhibits gonadotropin secretion (FSH, LH) via negative feedback on hypothalamic-pituitary axis, suppressing ovulation. Additionally, thickens cervical mucus and alters endometrial receptivity.
Combination oral contraceptive: ethinyl estradiol suppresses gonadotropin release via negative feedback on hypothalamic-pituitary axis; levonorgestrel inhibits ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, impairing sperm penetration. Also induces endometrial atrophy.
One tablet orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days off. Each tablet contains 1 mg ethynodiol diacetate and 35 mcg ethinyl estradiol.
One tablet orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 tablet-free days.
None Documented
None Documented
Ethinyl estradiol: 13±3 hours (terminal); norethindrone: 8±3 hours. Steady-state achieved after ~5 days.
20-30 hours for ethinyl estradiol; 2-4 hours for levonorgestrel. Steady-state reached in 5-7 days
Renal (primarily as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates): ~60%; fecal: ~40%
Urine (50-60% as metabolites), feces (30-40% as glucuronides); <10% unchanged
Category C
Category C
Oral Contraceptive
Oral Contraceptive