Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: LESSINA 28 versus LOW OGESTREL 21.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: LESSINA 28 versus LOW OGESTREL 21.
LESSINA-28 vs LOW-OGESTREL-21
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Combination of a progestin (levonorgestrel) and an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). Inhibits ovulation by suppressing gonadotropin release; increases cervical mucus viscosity to impede sperm penetration, and induces endometrial changes that reduce implantation likelihood.
Combination oral contraceptive. Suppresses gonadotropin release (FSH and LH) via estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (norgestrel), inhibiting ovulation. Also increases cervical mucus viscosity and alters endometrium.
One tablet (0.1 mg levonorgestrel and 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol) orally once daily for 28 days, starting on the first day of menstrual cycle.
One tablet (norgestrel 0.3 mg/ethinyl estradiol 30 mcg) orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 pill-free days.
None Documented
None Documented
Terminal elimination half-life: 18-22 hours; clinically relevant for once-daily dosing.
Norgestrel: 18-28 hours; ethinyl estradiol: 13-27 hours. Steady-state achieved after 5-7 days.
Renal: 30% as unchanged drug and metabolites; biliary/fecal: 70% as metabolites.
Ethinyl estradiol and norgestrel are excreted primarily as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates in urine (50-60%) and feces (30-40%).
Category C
Category C
Oral Contraceptive
Oral Contraceptive