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Gildess Fe
Gildess Fe is a combined oral contraceptive, meaning it contains a combination of two different hormones (an estrogen and a progestin). This prescription birth control pill works to prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, changing the cervical mucus, and altering the lining of the uterus. Common side effects include nausea, headaches, and breast tenderness.
Gildess® Fe (norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription birth control pill. The following birth control pills are equivalent to Gildess Fe:
- Junel Fe™ (made by Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
- Microgestin® Fe (made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
- Loestrin® Fe (made by Duramed Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).
Gildess Fe, Junel Fe, and Microgestin Fe are actually generic versions of Loestrin® Fe (see Generic Loestrin Fe for more information).
(Click Gildess Fe Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
Gildess Fe is made by made by Patheon, Inc., for Qualitest Pharmaceuticals USA.
Gildess Fe is a combined oral contraceptive, the most common type of birth control pill. It is a combined oral contraceptive because it contains a combination of two different types of hormones. It contains both an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (norethindrone). These hormones primarily prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries).
Gildess Fe also works to prevent pregnancy in two other, minor ways. It changes the cervical mucus (the fluid of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina), making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. It also alters the lining of the uterus (the endometrium), making it less receptive to an embryo.
The first 21 tablets in each pack of Gildess Fe contain the active hormones. The last seven tablets do not contain any hormones, but they do contain iron. This may help replace the iron you lose when you have your period, which may help prevent anemia.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD