Qlaira is a combination hormonal contraceptive pill used for birth control. It contains two active ingredients: estradiol valerate, a synthetic form of estrogen, and dienogest, a synthetic progestin. Qlaira is taken orally and works by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to hinder sperm penetration, and altering the uterine lining to make it less receptive to implantation.
Dosage:
Qlaira comes in a pack containing 28 tablets. The pack is designed to be taken continuously, with each tablet containing a different combination of hormones to mimic the natural hormonal fluctuations during a woman’s menstrual cycle. The pack includes 26 active tablets and 2 inactive tablets.
Usage:
- Starting Qlaira: Begin taking Qlaira on the first day of your menstrual cycle (Day 1 of your period). Alternatively, you can start on Day 2-5 of your cycle, but in that case, it’s recommended to use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the first 9 days of pill use.
- Daily Intake: Take one tablet daily, at the same time each day, with water if necessary. The tablets are usually labeled with the days of the week to help you keep track. It is important to take the tablets in the correct order to maintain the hormonal balance.
- Continuous Use: After finishing one pack, start the next pack the following day without any pill-free interval. This means you will have a withdrawal bleed while taking the two inactive tablets at the end of each pack. After completing the inactive tablets, start a new pack immediately.
- Missed Dose: If you forget to take one active tablet, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking the remaining tablets as scheduled. If you miss two or more tablets, follow the specific instructions provided with the pack or consult your healthcare provider.
- Additional Contraception: Qlaira is primarily effective as a contraceptive when taken consistently and correctly. However, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so using barrier methods like condoms is recommended to reduce the risk of STIs.
It is important to note that Qlaira may not be suitable for everyone. It should be used with caution in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as a history of blood clots, cardiovascular disorders, liver problems, or certain types of cancer. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any form of birth control to ensure it is the most appropriate option for you.