Zoely
Zoely is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy. It contains two active ingredients, estradiol (a synthetic oestrogen) and nomegestrol acetate (a synthetic progestogen), which mimic the natural hormones produced during a woman’s menstrual cycle. Zoely is over 99% effective when taken correctly and provides additional benefits such as lighter periods and reduced menstrual
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £33.99
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Zoely prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 mg/1.5 mg | 3×28 pack | £33.99 |
| 2.5 mg/1.5 mg | 6×28 pack | £62 |
Zoely: A Comprehensive Guide to This Combined Oral Contraceptive
What is Zoely?
Zoely is a combined oral contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy. It contains two active ingredients, estradiol (a synthetic oestrogen) and nomegestrol acetate (a synthetic progestogen), which mimic the natural hormones produced during a woman’s menstrual cycle. Zoely is over 99% effective when taken correctly and provides additional benefits such as lighter periods and reduced menstrual cramps.
What Are the Benefits of Zoely?
- Highly Effective Contraception: Offers reliable pregnancy prevention with correct usage.
- Natural Hormone Composition: Contains estradiol, a synthetic oestrogen structurally identical to the naturally occurring hormone, minimising side effects.
- Regulates Menstrual Cycle: Helps manage period timing, reduce cramping, and alleviate symptoms of PMS.
- Reduces Bleeding: Lightens periods for those who experience heavy menstrual flow.
- Improves Compliance: The monophasic formula ensures consistent hormone levels, making it easier to take daily.
How Does Zoely Work?
Zoely prevents pregnancy by altering the hormonal balance in the body to stop ovulation (the release of an egg). It also:
- Thickens Cervical Mucus: Makes it difficult for sperm to enter the womb.
- Thins the Uterine Lining: Reduces the likelihood of a fertilised egg implanting and developing.
- Prevents Egg Release: Stops ovulation from occurring altogether.
How to Take Zoely Pills
Zoely comes in a 28-day blister pack with 24 white active tablets (containing hormones) and 4 yellow placebo tablets (inactive). Here’s how to take it:
- Start on the First Day of Your Period: For immediate protection, take the first white pill on the first day of your cycle.
- Take One Pill Daily: Swallow with water, preferably at the same time each day.
- No Break Between Packs: After finishing the pack (including the placebo tablets), start a new one immediately.
What to Do If You Miss a Pill
- Less Than 12 Hours Late: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, and continue as usual. No extra contraception is needed.
- More Than 12 Hours Late: If you miss more than one active pill, take the most recent missed pill immediately and continue as normal. Use additional contraception, such as condoms, for the next 7 days.
If you miss a placebo pill, there’s no need for concern as these do not contain hormones.
Dosage and Composition
Each active Zoely tablet contains:
- 2.5mg nomegestrol acetate
- 1.5mg estradiol
These doses have been clinically tested to ensure effectiveness while minimising potential side effects.
Possible Side Effects of Zoely
While Zoely is generally well-tolerated, some women may experience mild side effects, especially during the first few months. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Headaches
If you experience severe side effects such as migraines, swelling, or signs of blood clots, seek immediate medical advice.
Precautions and Interactions
Who Should Avoid Zoely? Zoely may not be suitable for women with:
- A history of blood clots or strokes.
- High blood pressure or heart conditions.
- Severe liver disease.
- Known allergies to estradiol or nomegestrol acetate.
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Drug Interactions Certain medications and supplements may interfere with Zoely, reducing its effectiveness. These include:
- Epilepsy treatments.
- Anti-fungal medications.
- Herbal remedies like St John’s Wort.
Always inform your healthcare professional of any medications you are taking before starting Zoely.
Can I Buy Zoely Online?
You can purchase Zoely safely and conveniently from Medihealth Direct. Complete a free online consultation to ensure this contraceptive is suitable for you. Once approved by our healthcare professional, your medication will be dispatched with next-day delivery.
Zoely FAQs
How Effective Is Zoely?
Zoely is over 99% effective when taken correctly.
Can I Take Zoely While Breastfeeding?
No, Zoely is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
Does Zoely Stop Periods?
Zoely may reduce bleeding but is not designed to completely stop periods.
Is It Safe to Take Zoely Back-to-Back?
Yes, Zoely can be taken back-to-back to delay your period if desired.
How Long Does It Take for Zoely to Be Effective?
If started on the first day of your period, Zoely is effective immediately. Otherwise, use additional contraception for 7 days.
How does the online consultation for Zoely 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.