Do not use Ortho Tri-Cyclen (norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol)
If you are pregnant or recently had a baby; you should not use this medication. Those who have recently had a baby may begin treatment 4 weeks postpartum.
This medication should not be used by those who have uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, coronary artery disease, circulation problems (especially with diabetes), undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, severe migraine headaches, if you also take certain hepatitis C medication, if you have major surgery, if you smoke and are over 35, or if you have ever had a heart attack, a stroke, a blood clot, jaundice caused by pregnancy or birth control pills, or cancer of the breast, uterus/cervix, or vagina.
It is recommended you do not take Ortho Tri-Cyclen if you are over the age of 35 and smoke due to health risks.
You should not use this medication if you are breastfeeding. This drug passes into breast milk and is capable of harming a nursing infant.
Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required
Before starting this treatment, tell your doctor if you have ever had heart problems, high blood pressure, or if you are prone to blood clots, high cholesterol or triglycerides, or if you are overweight, depression, a seizure or migraine headache, diabetes, gallbladder disease, liver or kidney disease, irregular menstrual cycles, or fibrocystic breast disease, lumps, nodules, or an abnormal mammogram.
Risks
Taking this drug can cause an increase risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. Smoking can significantly raise this risk.
Watch for signs of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, liver problems, increased blood pressure, and depression during the time of treatment. (See side effects).