Rigevidon
Rigevidon is a combined oral contraceptive pill, often referred to as “the pill.” It is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken correctly.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £14.99
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Rigevidon prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 150mcg/30mcg | 3×21 pack | £14.99 |
| 150mcg/30mcg | 6×21 pack | £19.99 |
Rigevidon: Effective Contraceptive Pill
What is Rigevidon?
Rigevidon is a combined oral contraceptive pill, often referred to as “the pill.” It is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken correctly.
This generic version of Microgynon contains the same active ingredients— levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol—making it a cost-effective and reliable choice.
Beyond contraception, Rigevidon is also beneficial for women who experience heavy, painful, or irregular periods.
How Does Rigevidon Work?
Rigevidon uses two synthetic hormones, oestrogen (ethinylestradiol) and progestogen (levonorgestrel), to:
- Prevent Ovulation: Stops the release of an egg from the ovaries.
- Thicken Cervical Mucus: Makes it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
- Thin the Uterus Lining: Reduces the chance of a fertilised egg implanting in the womb.
When taken daily as prescribed, these mechanisms provide effective protection against pregnancy.
How to Take Rigevidon?
Rigevidon is a monophasic pill, meaning every pill contains the same dose of hormones.
Dosage:
- 150 mcg of levonorgestrel (progestogen)
- 30 mcg of ethinylestradiol (oestrogen)
Instructions for Use:
- Take one tablet daily for 21 days.
- Follow with a 7-day break, during which you will experience a withdrawal bleed.
- Start your next pack on the 8th day, even if you are still bleeding.
- Take the pill at the same time every day, with water if necessary.
If starting for the first time, take the pill on the first day of your period for immediate protection.
Missed Pills
- 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 possible (even if it means taking two pills in one day). Use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the next 7 days.
Benefits of Rigevidon
- Highly Effective: Over 99% protection when taken correctly.
- Regulates Periods: Reduces heavy, painful, or irregular periods.
- Cost-Effective: A generic alternative to Microgynon with identical efficacy.
Possible Side Effects of Rigevidon
While most women tolerate Rigevidon well, some may experience mild side effects, such as:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Mood changes
- Weight fluctuations
- Spotting between periods
Serious Side Effects:
- Blood clots (rare but more likely with combined pills)
- Increased risk of breast or cervical cancer
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms like severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or swelling in the limbs.
Who Should Not Take Rigevidon?
Rigevidon is not suitable for everyone. Avoid this medication if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart disease.
- Smoke heavily (especially if over 35).
- Have untreated high blood pressure or severe diabetes.
- Have a history of migraines with aura.
- Are allergic to any of the ingredients.
What Precautions Should You Take?
- Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare professional about any medications you take, including herbal supplements like St John’s Wort.
- Emergency Contraception: The morning-after pill, such as ellaOne, may reduce Rigevidon’s effectiveness. Use additional contraception for 14 days if you take these.
- Vomiting/Diarrhoea: If you vomit within 2 hours of taking the pill or have severe diarrhoea, treat it as a missed pill and follow the guidelines above.
FAQs About Rigevidon
Is Rigevidon the same as Microgynon?
Yes, Rigevidon is a generic version of Microgynon. Both contain the same active ingredients and provide identical results.
Does Rigevidon cause weight gain?
Weight gain is a potential side effect, but it is uncommon. Consult your healthcare professional if this is a concern.
Can I start Rigevidon mid-cycle?
Yes, but you will need to use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the first 7 days.
Can I use Rigevidon to skip my period?
Yes, you can skip your 7-day break and move directly to the next pack. However, consult your healthcare professional before doing so.
What happens if I stop taking Rigevidon?
Your fertility will return to normal immediately after stopping the pill. You may experience irregular periods for a short time.
How to Buy Rigevidon Online Safely?
You can purchase Rigevidon from Medihealth Direct after completing a quick, confidential online consultation. Once approved by a licensed healthcare professional, your medication will be dispatched with free next-day delivery.
Why Choose Medihealth Direct?
- Genuine Medication: Approved by UK regulatory authorities.
- Discreet Packaging: Your privacy is always prioritised.
- Flexible Delivery: Choose next-day or nominated-day delivery.
How does the online consultation for Rigevidon 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.
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