Balziva

Balziva is taken once daily, starting on the first day of the menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after the onset of menstruation. It is important to take the pill at the same time each day to maintain consistent hormone levels and maximize its effectiveness. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, and backup contraception may be needed depending on when the dose was missed.

Balziva is contraindicated in women with:

• A history of thrombotic disorders, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
• A history of stroke or heart attack.
• Uncontrolled hypertension.
• Known or suspected breast cancer or other estrogen- or progestin-sensitive cancers.
• Liver disease or liver tumors.
• Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding.
• Known or suspected pregnancy.
• Hypersensitivity to any component of the medication.

Patients taking Balziva should be advised to take the medication at the same time every day to ensure effectiveness. If a pill is missed, the patient should follow the instructions provided in the medication guide, which may include taking the missed pill as soon as remembered or using backup contraception. Patients should also be informed about the potential side effects and the importance of reporting any unusual symptoms, such as severe headaches, chest pain, or vision changes, which could indicate serious complications. Additionally, patients should be reminded that Balziva does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs); therefore, the use of condoms is recommended for STI prevention.

Common side effects of Balziva may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Weight gain or fluid retention
• Mood changes, including depression or irritability
• Headaches, including migraines
• Irregular menstrual bleeding (spotting or breakthrough bleeding)
• Changes in libido

Serious side effects can include:

• Blood clots (DVT, PE)
• Stroke or heart attack, particularly in smokers over the age of 35
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Liver problems, such as jaundice or liver tumors

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of a blood clot (such as leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath) or signs of liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes).

• Blood Clots: The use of oral contraceptives is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, particularly in women who smoke, are overweight, or have a history of clotting disorders.
• Cardiovascular Events: The risk of heart attack and stroke increases with age and smoking, particularly in women over 35.
• Liver Disease: Women with a history of liver disease should use Balziva with caution, as it can exacerbate liver conditions.
• Hypertension: Balziva may increase blood pressure; regular monitoring is advised, especially in women with a history of hypertension.

Balziva may interact with other medications, including:

• Antibiotics and Antifungals: Some antibiotics, like rifampin, can decrease the effectiveness of Balziva.
• Antiepileptic Drugs: Medications like phenytoin or carbamazepine can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
• St. John's Wort: This herbal supplement can decrease the levels of contraceptive hormones, reducing effectiveness.
• Anticoagulants: Estrogen can alter the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative contraceptive methods include:

• Other combined oral contraceptives: There are many other brands and formulations with varying hormone levels.
• Progestin-only pills (POPs): These are an alternative for women who cannot take estrogen.
• Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs): Such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) or contraceptive implants.
• Barrier methods: Including condoms or diaphragms.
• Injectable contraceptives: Such as Depo-Provera.
• Permanent contraception: Tubal ligation or vasectomy for those seeking permanent solutions.