Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: ORTHO CEPT versus ORTHO NOVUM 10 11 21.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: ORTHO CEPT versus ORTHO NOVUM 10 11 21.
ORTHO-CEPT vs ORTHO-NOVUM 10/11-21
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Combination oral contraceptive containing desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol. Inhibits ovulation by suppressing gonadotropin secretion; increases viscosity of cervical mucus, impeding sperm penetration; alters endometrial development.
Combination oral contraceptive consisting of norethindrone (progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (estrogen). Prevents ovulation primarily by suppressing gonadotropin release, including FSH and LH. Also increases cervical mucus viscosity, impeding sperm penetration, and alters endometrial structure, reducing implantation likelihood.
One tablet (0.15 mg desogestrel / 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol) orally once daily at the same time each day for 21 days, followed by 7 placebo tablets (or 7 hormone-free days).
One tablet (10 mg norethindrone/0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol) orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 placebo days. Start on first Sunday after menstrual period begins or on day 1 of cycle.
None Documented
None Documented
Desogestrel: 23 hours (terminal), Etonogestrel active metabolite: 30 hours (terminal); clinical steady state after 7-10 days
Norethindrone: 7-8 hours (terminal); Ethinyl estradiol: 10-20 hours (terminal). Clinically, steady state reached within 5-7 days.
Renal: 50% (metabolites), Biliary/fecal: 40% (metabolites and unchanged drug), 10% unchanged in urine
Renal: ~50% (metabolites as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates); Fecal: ~30% (via bile); Urinary unchanged: <1%.
Category C
Category C
Hormonal Contraceptive
Hormonal Contraceptive