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FDA-ApprovedOral tablet (26/2 regimen: 24 active + 2 EE-only + 2 iron)

Lo Loestrin Fe

norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol/ferrous fumarate · Allergan (AbbVie)

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Key Facts

Form

Oral tablet (26/2 regimen: 24 active + 2 EE-only + 2 iron)

Frequency

Once daily

Available Doses

1mg norethindrone acetate / 10mcg ethinyl estradiol

FDA Approval Date

October 21, 2010

Mechanism

Ultra-low-dose combined hormonal contraceptive with iron supplementation

Manufacturer

Allergan (AbbVie)

Cost

Self-Pay

$80–$180/mo

With Savings Card

AbbVie savings card reduces cost to $25–$35/mo for eligible patients

List Price

$200/mo

No generic equivalent available as of 2026. Higher cost due to unique formulation. Many insurance plans cover under ACA.

Side Effects

Side EffectRateSource
Nausea5%FDA label
Headache4%FDA label
Irregular bleeding/spotting15–20%FDA label
Breast tenderness3%FDA label
Acne3%FDA label
Mood changes2%FDA label

Source: Lo Loestrin Fe FDA Prescribing Information

Weight Loss Results

Lo Loestrin Fe Contraceptive Efficacy Trial

Pearl Index: 2.98 per 100 woman-years (typical use)

12 months · Treatment regimen (ITT)

12 months

Open-label, multicenter trial in 1,660 women aged 18–45. Many women experienced shortened or absent withdrawal bleeds.

How It Works

Lo Loestrin Fe prevents ovulation through combined hormonal action with the lowest available estrogen dose (10mcg EE) in the U.S. This ultra-low dose minimizes estrogen-related side effects like bloating, breast tenderness, and nausea while still effectively suppressing ovulation. The iron supplement in the last 2 pills helps prevent iron deficiency from menstrual blood loss.

Mechanism: Contains the lowest dose of ethinyl estradiol (10mcg) available in any combination oral contraceptive in the U.S. The 26/2 regimen includes 24 days of combination hormone pills, 2 days of estrogen-only pills, and 2 days of iron (ferrous fumarate) pills. The ultra-low estrogen dose reduces estrogen-related side effects while maintaining contraceptive efficacy.

Who It's For

Indication

Contraception

Women who want contraception with the lowest possible estrogen exposure. Ideal for patients who have experienced estrogen-related side effects on other pills (nausea, headache, breast tenderness, bloating). Not ideal for women who want predictable monthly periods, as many users have shortened or absent withdrawal bleeds.

Food & Water Restrictions

✅ No Restrictions

This medication can be taken at any time of day, with or without food and water.

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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial data referenced comes from published studies and FDA prescribing information. Side effect rates are from specific clinical trials and may not reflect real-world experience. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or switching any medication.