levonorgestrel + ethinylestradiol (Bayer)

Microgynon 21 is a combined oral contraceptive (COC) pill containing two active ingredients: the synthetic progestin **levonorgestrel** (150 mcg) and the synthetic estrogen **ethinylestradiol** (30 mcg). Developed by Bayer, it is indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. The drug works through a multi-faceted mechanism: it suppresses the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which inhibits the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, thereby preventing ovulation. Additionally, it increases the viscosity of cervical mucus to impede sperm entry and alters the endometrium to reduce the likelihood of implantation. It is typically administered as one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day hormone-free interval to allow for withdrawal bleeding.

Brand names

Microgynon 21Microgynon21Microgynon-21Microgynon

Other names

levonorgestrel/ethinylestradiolethinylestradiol/levonorgestrel