Norinyl-1
Norinyl-1 is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy. It contains two synthetic hormones, mestranol (50mcg) and norethisterone (1mg), which mimic the natural hormones oestrogen and progestogen.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £14.24
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Norinyl-1 prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3×21 pack | £14.24 |
| Standard | 6×21 pack | £28.99 |
Norinyl-1: A Reliable Combined Oral Contraceptive
What is Norinyl-1?
Norinyl-1 is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy. It contains two synthetic hormones, mestranol (50mcg) and norethisterone (1mg), which mimic the natural hormones oestrogen and progestogen.
This pill is taken daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break, during which you may experience withdrawal bleeding. Norinyl-1 provides effective contraception when taken correctly and is an excellent option for women seeking a reliable, easy-to-use birth control method.
How Does Norinyl-1 Work?
Norinyl-1 works in three key ways to prevent pregnancy:
- Inhibits ovulation: Stops the ovaries from releasing eggs.
- Thickens cervical mucus: Makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
- Alters the uterine lining: Prevents the implantation of a fertilised egg.
When used as directed, Norinyl-1 offers over 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy.
Benefits of Norinyl-1
- High effectiveness in preventing pregnancy when taken correctly.
- Simple daily routine: Take one pill daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break.
- Can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce period pain for some women.
- May help alleviate acne and other hormone-related skin conditions.
- Does not interrupt intimacy like barrier contraceptives.
How to Take Norinyl-1
Dosage Instructions
- Start taking Norinyl-1 on the first day of your period for immediate contraceptive protection.
- If starting between days 2-5 of your period, use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the first 7 days.
- Take one pill daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break.
- During the break, withdrawal bleeding similar to a period may occur.
- After the break, start the next pack even if the bleeding continues.
Missed a Pill?
- Less than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill immediately and continue as normal.
- More than 12 hours late: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, but use additional contraception for the next 7 days.
- If you miss multiple pills, consult your healthcare professional or consider emergency contraception if you’ve had unprotected sex.
Side Effects of Norinyl-1
Common Side Effects
- Nausea or upset stomach.
- Breast tenderness.
- Irregular vaginal bleeding.
- Weight gain or fluid retention.
- Mood changes or headaches.
Serious Side Effects (Rare)
- Blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism).
- Severe migraines or vision changes.
- Chest pain or breathlessness.
- Lumps in the breast (possible indication of breast cancer).
Seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms.
Precautions and Contraindications
Who Should Avoid Norinyl-1?
Norinyl-1 is not suitable for women who:
- Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart disease.
- Suffer from migraines with aura.
- Have liver or kidney conditions.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have unexplained vaginal bleeding or certain cancers (e.g., breast or uterine cancer).
Drug Interactions
Inform your healthcare professional about any medications or supplements you are taking, including:
- Antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin).
- Anti-seizure medications.
- St John’s Wort.
These may reduce Norinyl-1’s effectiveness.
Can I Buy Norinyl-1 Online?
Yes, you can purchase Norinyl-1 online from Medihealth Direct after completing a secure online consultation. A licensed healthcare professional will assess your suitability for the medication. If approved, your prescription will be dispatched discreetly, with free next-day delivery in the UK.
Norinyl-1 FAQs
How effective is Norinyl-1?
Norinyl-1 is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly.
Does Norinyl-1 protect against STIs?
No, Norinyl-1 does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use condoms for STI prevention.
Can I take Norinyl-1 while breastfeeding?
Norinyl-1 is not suitable for breastfeeding mothers as it contains oestrogen, which may affect milk production.
What should I do if I miss a pill?
If less than 12 hours late, take the missed pill immediately. If more than 12 hours late, use condoms for 7 days and consult your healthcare professional if necessary.
Does Norinyl-1 cause weight gain?
Weight changes may occur as a side effect. If this concerns you, speak to your healthcare professional for advice.
Can I stop taking Norinyl-1 at any time?
Yes, you can stop taking Norinyl-1 at any time. However, you should use alternative contraception immediately if you do not wish to conceive.
Is Norinyl-1 suitable for all women?
Norinyl-1 is suitable for most women but may not be recommended for those with certain medical conditions (e.g., migraines with aura or blood clot history).
How does the online consultation for Norinyl-1 work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
See how the service works or browse all treatments.