Standard Care | Low Risk

NORETHINDRONE ACETATE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL (Microgestin 1/20)

What to know about NORETHINDRONE ACETATE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL — also sold as Microgestin 1/20: uses, side effects, interactions, and safety considerations for people taking it or caring for someone who is.

NORETHINDRONE ACETATE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL (brand names: Microgestin 1/20) is classified as Low risk (1 risk points) by AllMeds. It is a S4 medication under the TGA in Australia. FDA approved in the United States. Combined hormonal contraceptive with minimal impact on work capacity or cognitive function.

Key Takeaways

  • TGA Schedule: S4 in Australia
  • Risk level: Low (1 points)

Scheduling and Classification

Jurisdiction Classification Status
Australia (TGA) S4 Not PBS listed
United States (FDA) Rx only FDA approved

Risk Profile

Risk Level Low
Risk Points 1
CNS Depressant No
Respiratory Risk No

Combined hormonal contraceptive with minimal impact on work capacity or cognitive function.

How NORETHINDRONE ACETATE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL is regulated

NORETHINDRONE ACETATE/ETHINYL ESTRADIOL is overseen by medicines regulators in each country. The rules below explain how it's scheduled, what oversight applies, and what to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, changing, or stopping this medication.

Australia TGA / PBS / State Schemes

Classified as S4 under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

United States FDA / CDC / State WC

FDA approved for use in the United States.

FDA Boxed Warning: Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from oral contraceptive use. This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in women over 35 years of age. Women who use oral contraceptives should be strongly advised not to smoke.

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Important: This page is general health information, not personal medical advice. If you have questions about your medication — including starting it, stopping it, changing the dose, or combining it with something else — speak with your doctor or pharmacist. For an emergency or suspected overdose, call your local emergency number or poison information service immediately. Information is drawn from regulator and clinical guideline sources (TGA, FDA, MHRA, NICE, PBS, CDC); see our methodology for details.