Comparative studies of two oral contraceptives containing DL norgestrel and D norgestrel

Abstract

Preliminary REPORTS on the comparative studies of 2 combined oral contraceptives: dl norgestrel 0.5 mg + ethinyl estradiol 0.05 mg (compound 1) and d norgestrel 0.25 mg + ethinyl estradiol 0.05 (compound 2) in 200 sexually active women are presented. The study showed that the effects of both compounds on menstruation and the side effects of both drugs were almost identical. Because of the relatively low incidence of side effects, both combinations were well accepted and well tolerated by the women. Concerning the long term effects of the drugs, a previous study with compound 1 showed that the drug was safe in the women for at least a period of 5 yr. Compound 2, which is biologically as active as compound 1 but has a smaller dose of progestogen should be preferable owing to metabolic reasons. This study also shows that the pack of 28 tablets is easier to prescribe in busy clinics as less time is needed in explaining the method of pill taking.