What is the Difference Between Loestrin and Lo Loestrin?

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Loestrin and Lo Loestrin are both birth control pills, but they have different formulations and dosages. The main differences between Loestrin and Lo Loestrin are:

  1. Phasic vs. Monophasic: Loestrin is a monophasic birth control pill, while Lo Loestrin is a triphasic birth control pill. A monophasic pill contains the same amount of hormones throughout the cycle, while a triphasic pill has varying amounts of hormones in different phases of the cycle.
  2. Estrogen Concentration: Loestrin contains a higher estrogen concentration than Lo Loestrin.
  3. Regimen: Lo Loestrin Fe is an extended-regimen birth control pill, which means it has 26 days of "active pills" (with hormones) and 2 days of "reminder pills" (without hormones).

Both Loestrin and Lo Loestrin contain a combination of ethinyl estradiol (estrogen) and norethindrone (progestin). They are prescribed for birth control purposes and may also be used for other conditions not listed in this medication guide. Some common side effects of Lo Loestrin Fe include nausea, vomiting, headache, spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods, painful menstruation, weight change, breast tenderness, acne, abdominal pain, anxiety, and depression.

Comparative Table: Loestrin vs Lo Loestrin

Loestrin and Lo Loestrin Fe are contraceptive drugs that contain the combination of two hormones: Ethinyl Estradiol and Norenthindrone. Both drugs are manufactured by Duramed Pharmaceuticals. Here is a table highlighting the differences between Loestrin and Lo Loestrin Fe:

Feature Loestrin Lo Loestrin Fe
Generic/Brand Name Generic drug Brand name of a contraceptive drug
Contains 21 pills plus 7 pills without hormones 21 pills plus 7 pills with ferrous fumarate (iron)
Side Effects Same as Lo Loestrin Fe, but does not contribute to darker stools Same as Loestrin, but with darker stools due to iron content

Loestrin and Lo Loestrin Fe have the same side effects, such as acne, weight gain, and headaches. However, Lo Loestrin Fe contains iron (ferrous fumarate) in its 7 non-hormonal placebo pills, which can cause darker stools. It is advised to take this drug with Vitamin C for better absorption of iron.