Loestrin Fe

Loestrin Fe is a type of birth control pill that works to prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, altering the cervical mucus, and changing the lining of the uterus. There is only one standard dosage of Loestrin Fe -- one tablet taken once a day, at the same time every day. Possible side effects include headaches, nausea, and breakthrough bleeding.

 

What Is Loestrin Fe?

Loestrin® Fe (norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription birth control pill (technically known as an oral contraceptive). The following generic birth control pills are equivalent to Loestrin Fe:
 
  • Microgestin® Fe (made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
  • Junel Fe™ (made by Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).
     
Loestrin Fe is different from plain Loestrin® because it has 28 tablets in each pack and the last seven tablets contain iron (Loestrin has 21 tablets and does not contain iron). The information in this article does not apply to plain Loestrin.
 
Loestrin Fe is not the same as Loestrin® 24 Fe, a newer birth control pill that provides a shorter, lighter period. The information in this article does not apply to Loestrin 24 Fe either.
 
(Click Loestrin Fe Uses for more information on Loestrin Fe, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Loestrin Fe?

Loestrin Fe is made by Duramed Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Generic versions of Loestrin Fe are made by various manufacturers (see Generic Loestrin Fe for more information).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;