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

OBJECTIVE: To 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. METHODS: A multicenter, open-label, 1-year study of Seasonique [30 microg EE/150 microg levonorgestrel (LNG)] for 84 days followed by EE 10 microg for 7 days was conducted in sexually active, adult women of childbearing potential. All patients completed daily electronic diaries to monitor compliance and bleeding. RESULTS: Method 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. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that Seasonique is effective, safe and well tolerated for the prevention of pregnancy.