Mercilon

Mercilon is a low-dose Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) containing Desogestrel 150 mcg and Ethinylestradiol 20 mcg, manufactured by Organon.

Mercilon has the same formulation as Marvelon but with lower Ethinylestradiol (20 mcg vs 30 mcg), resulting in fewer oestrogen-related side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness, and a slightly lower blood clot risk.

Desogestrel is a third-generation progestin with high selectivity for progesterone receptors and low androgenic activity, making it effective against acne.

The pill works by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining.

Primary indications:

• Contraception — Over 99% effective pregnancy prevention
• Menstrual regulation — Helps regulate cycles
• Acne reduction — Desogestrel's anti-androgenic effect

Key advantage: Low-dose EE 20 mcg — ideal for those sensitive to oestrogen or seeking to minimise oestrogen-related side effects.

Note: Low-dose pills may cause more breakthrough bleeding than 30 mcg pills initially.

Dosage: Each strip contains 21 tablets. Take 1 tablet daily at the same time.

How to take:

• Take for 21 consecutive days → stop for 7 days (withdrawal bleed occurs) → start new strip
• Start on day 1 of your period for immediate effect
• If starting another day, use condoms for the first 7 days

If you miss a pill:

• Less than 12 hours late — take it immediately
• More than 12 hours late — take the missed pill and use condoms for 7 days

Common side effects:

• Nausea (less than with EE 30 mcg pills)
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Breakthrough bleeding (may be more common than with EE 30 mcg pills)
• Mood changes

Serious side effects (rare):

• DVT/PE (blood clots) — slightly increased risk, but lower than higher-EE pills
• High blood pressure

Important: Seek immediate medical attention for leg swelling, sudden chest pain, or breathing difficulty.

Do not use:

• History of DVT/PE
• Migraine with aura
• Smokers over age 35
• History of breast cancer
• Severe liver disease
• Pregnancy

Use with caution:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Breastfeeding — consider Cerazette instead

Mercilon vs. Marvelon: Same progestin (Desogestrel 150 mcg) but Marvelon has higher EE (30 mcg). Better cycle control with Marvelon; fewer oestrogen side effects with Mercilon.

Mercilon vs. Melodia/Yaz: Same EE (20 mcg) but Melodia/Yaz use Drospirenone with anti-mineralocorticoid effects. Better for acne and PMS bloating.

Mercilon vs. Cerazette: Cerazette is progestin-only (Desogestrel 75 mcg) without oestrogen. Suitable for breastfeeding.

Mercilon works through 3 main mechanisms:

• Ovulation suppression — Combined hormones suppress FSH and LH
• Cervical mucus thickening — Makes sperm penetration difficult
• Endometrial thinning — Reduces implantation likelihood

Over 99% effective when taken correctly.

EE 20 mcg is a low dose that still effectively suppresses ovulation while reducing oestrogen-related side effects. However, breakthrough bleeding may be more common than with EE 30 mcg pills during the first 1–3 months.

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

Can I buy Mercilon 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.