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Birth control pills overdose
Definition:
Poisoning from an overdose of birth control (oral contraceptive) pills.

Poisonous Ingredient:
Most birth control pills fall under one of the following combinations of estrogen and progestin:
  • ethynodiol diacetate and ethinyl estradiol
  • ethynodiol diacetate and mestranol
  • levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol
  • norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol
  • norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol
  • mestranol and norethindrone
  • mestranol and norethynodrel
  • norgestrel and ethinyl estradiol
Some birth control pills contain progestin only, such as:
  • norethindrone
  • norgestrel
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Where Found:
  • ethinyl estradiol and ethynodiol diacetate (Demulen)
  • mestranol and ethynodiol diacetate (Ovulen)
  • levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol (Nordette, Tri- Levlen, Triphasil)
  • norethindrone (Micronor, Nor-Q.D.)
  • norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol (Loestrin, Norlestrin)
  • norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol (Brevicon, Ortho-Novum 1/35, Modicon, Ortho-Novum 7/7/7, Ovcon)
  • mestranol and norethindrone (Ortho-Novum 1/50)
  • mestranol and norethynodrel (Enovid)
  • norgestrel (Ovrette)
  • norgestrel and ethinyl estradiol (Lo/Ovral, Ovral)
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms:
Home Treatment:
Discontinue the birth control pills. The poisoning is unlikely to be life threatening, but if an overdose has occurred call Poison Control for further instructions.
Before Calling Emergency:
Determine the following information:
  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  • the time it was swallowed
  • the amount swallowed
  • if the medication was prescribed for the patient
Poison Control, or a local emergency number:
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control Centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
What to expect at the emergency room:
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
  • Induce vomiting.
  • Treat the symptoms.
Note: A trip to the emergency room will probably not be necessary.
Expectations (prognosis):
Serious symptoms are very unlikely.
Review Date: 1/4/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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