Safety and efficacy of an extended-regimen oral contraceptive utilizing continuous low-dose ethinyl estradiol

ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy and safety of Seasonique™, a 91-day extended-regimen oral contraceptive (OC) utilizing continuous low-dose ethinyl estradiol (EE) during the typical hormone-free interval.MethodsA multicenter, open-label, 1-year study of Seasonique™ [30 μg EE/150 μg levonorgestrel (LNG)] for 84 days followed by EE 10 μg for 7 days was conducted in sexually active, adult women of childbearing potential. All patients completed daily electronic diaries to monitor compliance and bleeding.ResultsMethod failure rate was 0.78 (Pearl index) and 0.64% (life table analysis). Cycle control and safety of the regimen were similar to that reported for other OCs.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that Seasonique™ is effective, safe and well tolerated for the prevention of pregnancy.