Cerazette

Cerazette is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (POP) containing Desogestrel 75 mcg as its active ingredient, manufactured by Organon. It is a next-generation mini pill with a mechanism of action that differs from traditional POPs.

Cerazette works through 3 mechanisms: inhibiting ovulation (its key advantage over other mini pills which rely solely on other mechanisms), thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm passage, and thinning the endometrium to reduce the likelihood of implantation.

As it contains no oestrogen, it is suitable for women who cannot use oestrogen-containing contraceptives, such as those who are breastfeeding, at risk of DVT, smokers over 35, or those with migraine with aura.

Cerazette contraceptive pill is suitable for:

• Breastfeeding women — safe as it contains no oestrogen and does not affect milk supply
• Women at risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) — does not increase clot risk like combined pills
• Smokers over 35 — combined pills are contraindicated in this group, but Cerazette can be used
• Women with migraine with aura — combined pills may increase stroke risk in this group
• Women with high blood pressure — safer than combined pills
• Women with high BMI — can be used safely

Special advantages of Cerazette over other mini pills:

• 12-hour missed pill window (other mini pills allow only 3 hours)
• Over 99% effective due to actual ovulation inhibition
• No pill-free break required — take continuously with 28 tablets per pack

Dosage: Take 1 tablet daily at the same time every day with no break between packs. Each pack contains 28 tablets. Start the next pack immediately after finishing one.

How to start:

• Start on Day 1 of your period — protection is immediate, no backup contraception needed
• Start on any other day — use condoms for at least the first 7 days

If you miss a pill:

• Less than 12 hours late — take it as soon as you remember; contraceptive protection is maintained
• More than 12 hours late — take it as soon as you remember and use condoms for the next 7 days. If you had intercourse during the missed period, consider emergency contraception

Vomiting after taking the pill: If you vomit within 3–4 hours, the pill may not be absorbed. Take another tablet immediately.

Common side effects:

• Irregular periods — the most common side effect. You may experience spotting, irregular bleeding, or your period may stop altogether (amenorrhoea). This is normal and not harmful.
• Headache
• Nausea
• Acne
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Decreased libido

Less common side effects:

• Ovarian cysts (usually resolve without treatment)
• Hair loss
• Fatigue

Note: Most side effects typically improve after 2–3 months of use. Consult your doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Do not use:

• Allergy to Desogestrel or any other ingredient
• Active venous thromboembolism
• Severe liver disease or liver tumours
• Known or suspected breast cancer
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

Medications that may reduce Cerazette's effectiveness:

• Anti-epileptics — Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Primidone, Topiramate, Oxcarbazepine
• Rifampicin — tuberculosis treatment
• HIV medications — Ritonavir, Nelfinavir, Nevirapine, Efavirenz
• St. John's Wort — herbal depression remedy

If you need these medications, consult your doctor about alternative contraception methods.

Cerazette vs. Marvelon: Marvelon is a combined pill containing both oestrogen and progestogen. Similar efficacy, but Cerazette is oestrogen-free, making it suitable for those who cannot use oestrogen. Marvelon provides regular periods, while Cerazette may cause irregular bleeding.

Cerazette vs. Yasmin: Yasmin is a combined pill with Drospirenone, good for reducing water retention and acne. However, it contains oestrogen and is unsuitable for those who must avoid it. Cerazette is safer for women at risk of DVT.

Cerazette vs. Mercilon: Mercilon is a low-dose combined pill with the lowest oestrogen among combined pills, with fewer side effects. However, Cerazette remains the better choice if oestrogen must be completely avoided.

Approximately 1 in 5 Cerazette users may find their periods stop completely (amenorrhoea). This is normal and not harmful.

Periods stop because Desogestrel inhibits ovulation and thins the endometrium, so there is no lining to shed as menstrual blood.

Possible changes to your period:

• Periods stop completely (about 20% of users)
• Irregular spotting
• Lighter, less frequent periods
• Some users may continue to have normal periods

Changes in your period do not mean the pill is not working or is harmful. If you are concerned, you can take a pregnancy test for peace of mind.

Medications that reduce Cerazette's effectiveness:

• Anti-epileptics — Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Primidone, Topiramate, Oxcarbazepine accelerate Desogestrel metabolism
• Rifampicin / Rifabutin — tuberculosis treatments significantly reduce contraceptive blood levels
• Some HIV medications — Ritonavir, Nelfinavir, Nevirapine, Efavirenz
• St. John's Wort (herbal) — reduces contraceptive effectiveness
• Griseofulvin — antifungal medication

What to do if using these medications:

• Use condoms throughout treatment and for 28 days after stopping
• Consult your doctor about alternative contraception such as IUD

Safe to use together: Common antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin, Azithromycin) do not reduce contraceptive effectiveness.

Cerazette is a pharmacist-dispensed medication. You can order online from Intimo Life.

Can I buy Cerazette online?

Yes. Order through Intimo Life — select the product, consult with a licensed pharmacist online, and receive your medication at home.

Do I need a prescription?

A doctor's prescription is not required, but the medication must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. At Intimo Life, our pharmacist will review your symptoms and health history to confirm suitability before shipping.

How does Intimo Life ship orders?

We deliver nationwide in Thailand with discreet packaging — no product names on the outside.