COC with norgestimate
ATC code: G03AA11 (Norgestimate and estrogen)
Norgestimate is a progestin with minimal androgenic activity, metabolized to levonorgestrel and norelgestromin. Ethinylestradiol + norgestimate suppresses ovulation. Per , norgestimate COC is also approved for moderate acne in women ≥15 who need contraception.
First line
Regular contraception. Per SEGO 2023, norgestimate COCs are useful in moderate acne without severe hirsutism. Dose 35 µg ethinylestradiol + 250 µg norgestimate. 21 + 7 days. VTE risk intermediate between 2nd and 3rd-generation COCs.
Second line
Moderate acne in women who also need contraception. Per AEDV 2023, COCs with antiandrogenic progestins (norgestimate, dienogest, drospirenone) are second-line after topical retinoids and systemic antibiotics. Effect by 3-6 months. For acne without contraceptive need, systemic retinoids or antibiotics, not COCs.
Opens the checker prefilled with this drug. Pick the second one from your regimen.
Discontinue if pregnant.
Estrogen reduces milk. WHO MEC first 6 weeks – category 4, then 2. Norgestimate metabolizes to levonorgestrel, RID about 1%, Hale L3.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
Ethinylestradiol + Norgestimate is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Contraception (evidence tier A), Acne and PCOS with hyperandrogenism (evidence tier B). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Ethinylestradiol + Norgestimate (≥ 1 in 100): Nausea, Breast tenderness, Spotting. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
FDA category X. Discontinue if pregnant.
Estrogen reduces milk. WHO MEC first 6 weeks – category 4, then 2. Norgestimate metabolizes to levonorgestrel, RID about 1%, Hale L3.
Ethinylestradiol + Norgestimate is contraindicated in: VTE; Thrombophilia; Smoking after 35; Migraine with aura; HTN. Full list in the Safety section.