Mestranol

Mestranol should be used with caution in patients with medical history, including family medical history, especially if have asthma, high blood pressure, kidney, liver or heart disease or a history of jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) or high blood pressure during pregnancy, excessive weight gain or fluid retention during menstrual cycle, strokes, blood clots, heart attacks, seizures, migraine headaches, breast cancer, high blood level of cholesterol or lipids (fats) or depression. Higher strengths are more likely to cause melasma (darkening of skin), sunlight may intensify this darkening and may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps, consult the doctor regarding use of sunscreens and protective clothing. Oral contraceptives should be stopped at least three months before becoming pregnant. Use another method of birth control during those three months. Consult with doctor before lactation. Avoid smoking. Birth-control pills slightly increase risk of strokes, blood clots, high blood pressure, heart attacks, gallbladder disease, vision problems and liver tumors. Cigarette smoking (especially 15 or more cigarettes daily) and age (women older than 35 or 40 years of age) further increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure and heart attacks. Avoid using contact lenses because it may develop vision problems, consult with eye doctor if these problems occur. Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor about the use of the drug.