Before Using Ortho Tri Cyclen

Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with Ortho Tri-Cyclen. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Do not take this medicine if you are also taking nevirapine or rifampin. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking barbituates, carvedilol, corticosteroids, felbamate, griseofulvin, HIV protease inhibitors, modafinil, metoprolol, pioglitazone, penicillin or tetracycline antibiotics, theophylline, topiramate, troglitazone, troleandomycin, or medicine for seizures. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of cancer, heart or liver conditions, pulmonary embolism, blood clots, stroke, cerebrovascular disease, or smoking. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions -  How to Take Ortho Tri Cyclen

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Ortho Tri-Cyclen comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have before using this medicine. Try to take this medicine at the same time every day, not more than 24 hours apart. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. Take your next dose at the regular time. This means you may take 2 doses on the same day. If you miss more than 1 dose of this medicine, refer to the patient information that came with this medicine. If you have any questions, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. For a complete guide on regimen options, refer to our section on Ortho Tri Cyclen dosage. Your doctor will instruct you whether you are a "Day One" starter or a "Sunday" starter.

How Long Does it Take for Ortho Tri Cyclen to be Effective?

When starting Ortho Tri Cyclen, your body will need at minimum 7 days to adjust; allowing medication enough time to work.

If You Take Too Much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, tremor, rapid breathing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Storage

Store Ortho Tri-Cyclen at room temperature, away from heat and light. Keep Ortho Tri-Cyclen and all other medicines away from children.