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Xulane Coupon - Xulane 3 patches of 150mcg/35mcg package

Xulane

Generic Orthro Evra (brand no longer available)
Used for Birth Control
Used for Birth Control

Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is a once-weekly, combination hormonal birth control patch that can help prevent pregnancy. The patch is small in size so it's easy to hide under your clothes, but there is a small chance that the patch can fall off. Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) isn’t a good option for people who weigh 198 pounds or more, because it might not work as well. It also isn't a good option for people identified as obese (body mass index or BMI of 30 kg/m^2^ or more) because of a higher risk of blood clots.

Last reviewed on June 22, 2022
basics-icon

What is Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

What is Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) used for?

  • Prevention of pregnancy

How Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) works

Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) contains norelgestromin (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). These components work together to prevent pregnancy by acting like natural progesterone and estrogen hormones in your body. Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) works by stopping your body from releasing eggs (also known as ovulation). It also creates an environment that makes it both harder for sperm to move through and for a fertilized egg to attach and grow.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsXulane, Zafemy
Drug ClassProgestin / Estrogen replacement
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Breast symptoms (e.g., discomfort, swelling, pain; 22%)
  • Headache (21%)
  • Nausea (17%)
  • Application site reactions (e.g., skin irritation, redness; 17%)
  • Stomach pain (8%)
  • Pain with your period (8%)
  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting (6%)
  • Changes in your mood (6%)
  • Vomiting (5%)

Other Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Migraine
  • Tiredness
  • Acne

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Blood clots: in the lungs (sudden trouble breathing); in the legs (leg pain or swelling, skin that’s warm to the touch)
  • Stroke: sudden weakness on one side of your body, drooping face, headache, changes in your speech or vision, confusion
  • Heart attack: chest pain, arm pain, shortness of breath, cold sweat
  • Depression: feeling sad, anxious, or hopeless

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Body aches or pain

chills

cough

difficulty with breathing

ear congestion

fever

headache

loss of voice

nasal congestion

runny nose

sneezing

sore throat

unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

Anxiety

changes in skin color

chest pain or discomfort

confusion

dark urine

diarrhea

dizziness

eye pain

fainting

inability to speak

itching

lack or loss of appetite

light-colored stools

lightheadedness

nausea

numbness in the hands

pain in the stomach

pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg

pounding in the ears

rash

seizures

slow or fast heartbeat

slurred speech

sudden headache

sudden loss of coordination

sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arm or leg on one side of the body

sweating

swelling, pain, or tenderness in the upper abdominal or stomach area

temporary blindness

unpleasant breath odor

vision changes

vomiting of blood

yellow eyes or skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Unusual vaginal bleeding in women

vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Burning, itching, or redness of the skin

menstrual cramps

pain, soreness, swelling, or discharge from the breast or breasts

swelling or soreness at the patch site

Incidence not known

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

bloody vaginal discharge

brown, blotchy spots on exposed skin

change in amount of vaginal discharge

change in menstrual flow

decreased amount of breast milk

discouragement

dry mouth

feeling sad or empty

increase or decrease in weight

increased hunger or thirst

increased urination

irritability

itching of the vagina or outside of the genitals

light vaginal bleeding between periods and after sexual intercourse

loss of interest or pleasure

pain during sexual intercourse

stomach cramps or bloating

stopping of menstrual bleeding

swelling

thick, white curd-like vaginal discharge without odor or with mild odor

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works very well at preventing pregnancy

Applied once a week

Patch stayed on the skin well for most people during clinical studies

thumbs-down

Cons

Not for use in people with a BMI of at least 30 kg/m^2^ or a weight of at least 198 pounds

More estrogen absorbed into the body compared to most combination hormonal birth control pills, which might mean a higher risk of side effects

Small risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke

Won't work as well if you cut or tear the patch

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

pharmacist
  • It's important to follow the directions to make sure you apply Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) correctly. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use the patch.

    • Apply the patch to the upper outer arm, lower stomach, buttock, or back. Don't apply the patch to your breasts, on irritated skin or cuts, in places where tight clothing can rub against the patch, or in the same place as your last patch.

      • The patch must stick to your skin completely for the whole week. Replace it with a new patch each week for 3 weeks in a row. Both of these things make sure the medication works best at preventing pregnancy.

        • If you forget to apply or change your patch, or if your patch comes off your skin, talk to your provider. In these situations, you might need to use a back-up, non-hormonal birth control method (e.g., condom) in addition to using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). Your provider can let you know if you need a back-up method and for how long.

          • Don't smoke while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol), because smoking raises your risk of getting blood clots. If you smoke, talk to your provider about steps to quit smoking. If you’re not ready to quit, your provider can guide you to other birth control options that are safer for you.

            • Wear sunscreen and avoid tanning beds to protect your skin while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). This medication can cause areas of your skin to darken on your forehead, nose, cheeks, and around your mouth (chloasma).

              • Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) doesn't protect you against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Remember to use a condom during sex to lower your risk of getting HIV and other STIs.

                • Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while using this medication, you should stop using the patches, since you won't need birth control at that point.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

                  How well does Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) work?
                  In clinical studies, Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) was 99% effective at preventing pregnancy in people between the ages of 18 and 35 when used correctly. It's important to note that Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) might not work as well if you weigh 198 pounds or more. To compare, combination hormonal birth control pills are generally 91% effective, and implants and intrauterine devices (devices placed in your uterus, also called IUDs) are over 99% effective.
                  What is the difference between Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and Twirla (levonorgestrel / ethinyl estradiol)?
                  Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and Twirla (levonorgestrel / ethinyl estradiol) are currently the only once-weekly, birth control patches available. One difference between these medications is that Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) contains higher amounts of both progestin and estrogen hormones than Twirla. Taking a medication with higher amounts of these hormones (particularly estrogen) might raise your risk of certain side effects. In addition, both medications contain the same type of estrogen (ethinyl estradiol), but they have different progestins in them (Xulane contains norelgestromin, and Twirla contains levonorgestrel). Both patches are over 90% effective, so they work well at preventing pregnancy.
                  Do I have to take my Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) patch off when I go in the water?
                  No. You can wear your patch when you go in the water, like the pool or shower. After getting out of the water, just double check that your patch is still attached properly. This will help make sure the patch can still work like it's supposed to.
                  Can you use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) if you're breastfeeding?
                  Combination hormonal birth control patches, like Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol), are not recommended if you're breastfeeding. This is because estrogen and progestin hormones can pass into breast milk. Estrogen can also lower of the amount of breast milk you make. Talk to your provider about other birth control options that might be better for you while breastfeeding.
                  Can Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) cause weight gain?
                  It's possible for your weight to go up while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). In clinical studies, about 3% of people reported weight gain with this medication. Let your healthcare provider know if you've gained a lot of weight after starting this medication.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

                  Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Very rare risk for blood clots, heart attack, or stroke

                  • Risk factors: Personal or family history of blood clots | Smoking | Age 35 years or older | High blood pressure | High cholesterol | High blood sugar | BMI of 30 kg/m^2^ or more | Migraines with flashes of light or tingling in the hand or face | Not moving for a long period of time


                    Combination hormonal birth control like Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can cause your blood to clump together (form clots), and block blood from getting to other parts of your body. These clots can lead to heart attacks or strokes.

                    Make sure you discuss using combination hormonal birth control with your provider before starting, since there are many factors that raise your risk of blood clots. In general, your risk is highest during your first year of using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and when you restart any hormonal birth control after a break of 4 weeks or longer. It's especially high if you're at least 35 years old and you smoke, or if you have a BMI of 30 kg/m^2^ or more. Other risk factors include having migraines with aura or during a short period of time after surgery. Let your provider know if you have a surgery coming up, so they can discuss when to stop and restart your birth control.

                    Symptoms of a stroke include sudden weakness on one side of your body, drooping face, bad headaches, trouble breathing, or changes in your speech or vision. Symptoms of a heart attack include arm pain, chest pain, or a cold sweat. If you experience any of these symptoms or swelling or pain in your arms or legs, go to the emergency room immediately.

                    risk-warning

                    Liver problems

                    • Risk factors: History of liver damage | Liver tumors | Taking certain hepatitis C treatments

                      Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can cause damage to your liver or, rarely, raise your risk of liver tumors. You shouldn't take Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) if you're taking hepatitis C combination medications containing ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir. This is because there is an even higher risk of liver damage when Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is used together with these combination medications. Let your healthcare provider know as soon as possible if you notice symptoms of liver problems, like yellowing of your skin or eyes, upper right stomach pain, or dark urine, while using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol).

                      risk-warning

                      High blood pressure

                      • Risk factors: High blood pressure | Older age | Long-term use

                        Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can raise your blood pressure. People who can’t keep a consistently healthy blood pressure shouldn't use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol), since it can make it harder for you to reach your blood pressure goals. Your provider might monitor your blood pressure while you use Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) to make sure it doesn't get too high. If you notice changes in your vision, headaches, or flushing, let your provider know immediately. These can be signs of very high blood pressure.

                        risk-warning

                        Gallbladder problems

                        • Risk factors: History of gallbladder condition

                          Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can cause new or worsening gallbladder problems. Tell your provider if you've had gallbladder problems in the past. Your provider will decide if you should stop taking Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and switch to a different birth control method.

                          risk-warning

                          High triglyceride (fat) levels in your blood

                          • Risk factors: Personal or family history of high triglyceride levels

                            Using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can raise your triglyceride (fat) levels in your body. Higher levels of these fats can raise your risk of problems with your pancreas, including swelling (pancreatitis). If you have a history of high triglyceride levels, your provider might monitor them more closely through blood work while you're using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). If you notice sudden pain around your upper stomach to your back, stomach tenderness or bloating, nausea, or vomiting, let your provider know as soon as possible. These can be signs of pancreatic problems.

                            risk-warning

                            High blood sugar

                            • Risk factors: History of diabetes (high blood sugar)

                              Using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) can raise your blood sugar levels, since the medication can affect how well your body processes sugar. If you have a history of having high blood sugar levels, your provider might need to check these levels more often to make sure they don't get too high. If you experience extreme thirst, hunger, or urinate more often while taking the medication, let your healthcare provider know since this might mean your blood sugar levels are too high.

                              risk-warning

                              Changes to your menstrual bleeding (period) patterns

                              You might notice changes to your menstrual bleeding after starting Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). It's normal to see some breakthrough bleeding and spotting when using Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). If this irregular bleeding doesn't go away over time, let your healthcare provider know, because they might need to make changes to your birth control medication.

                              In addition, if your period doesn't come at all during the week you aren't wearing a patch (the last week in the 4-week cycle), let your provider know as well. This can be a sign that you might be pregnant, and your provider might recommend a pregnancy test to check. This is especially important if you might not have followed the exact instructions on when to apply the patch.

                              risk-warning

                              Hormone receptor-positive cancers

                              • Risk factors: History of hormone receptor-positive cancer

                                According to some studies, there might be a higher risk of certain types of cancer (e.g., breast or cervical cancer) if you take combination hormonal birth control. Breast and cervical cancers are a type of hormone receptor-positive cancer, which means it can grow when there are more hormones (estrogen or progestin) in the body. Because Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) is a medication that contains these hormones, it might cause breast or cervical cancer to grow. Research also suggests that the risk of these cancers might be higher with longer medication use. Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) shouldn't be used if you currently have or have had breast cancer. If you want to start combination hormonal birth control but have questions about your cancer risk, talk to your healthcare provider.

                                dosage

                                Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) dosage forms

                                package
                                Package
                                DosageAs low as
                                3 patches of 150mcg/35mcg$34.24 for 1 package

                                Typical dosing for Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)

                                Each cycle lasts 4 weeks. Continue to repeat the cycle to prevent pregnancy.

                                • Weeks 1 to 3: Apply 1 patch to your body once a week on the same day of the week. Be sure to take off the old patch before you apply a new one.

                                • Week 4: Don't apply any patches this week.

                                Each day, the patch releases 150 mcg of norelgestromin and 35 mcg of ethinyl estradiol.

                                interactions

                                Interactions between Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) and other drugs

                                Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                drug-cost

                                How much does Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) cost?

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                                contraindications-icon

                                Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) contraindications

                                Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) will not be safe for you to take.
                                • BMI of 30 kg/m^2^ or more

                                • High risk for developing a blood clot

                                • Over the age of 35 who smoke or have migraine headaches

                                • Liver problems

                                • Current use of certain hepatitis C medications

                                • History of breast cancer

                                • Changes in menstrual bleeding (period) patterns that your provider hasn't checked out yet

                                • Pregnancy

                                alternatives

                                What are alternatives to Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)?

                                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol)
                                Used for:
                                • Prevention of pregnancy

                                $34.24 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                Used for:
                                • Prevention of pregnancy

                                $210.56 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
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                                Xulane (norelgestromin / ethinyl estradiol) images

                                Peach Rectangular Xulane (Norelgestromin And Ethinyl Estradiol) 150/35 Mcg Per Day - Xulane Transdermal Patch
                                This medicine is Peach, Rectangular Package Imprinted With "Xulane (Norelgestromin And Ethinyl Estradiol) 150/35 Mcg Per Day".Peach Rectangular Xulane (Norelgestromin And Ethinyl Estradiol) 150/35 Mcg Per Day - Xulane Transdermal Patch

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