Ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel and Pyri-500

• Generic Name: desogestrel / ethinyl estradiol
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Azurette, Cyclessa, Desogen, Isibloom, Kariva, Mircette, Reclipsen, Cyred

Ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel is a combination birth control pill containing female hormones that prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel also causes changes in your cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.

Ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel is used to prevent pregnancy. There are many brands of this medicine available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: pyridoxine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Vitamin B6, Vitelle Nestrex, Pyridoxal 5'-Phosphate

Vitamins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Pyridoxine (vitamin B 6) is necessary for normal breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Some conditions may increase your need for pyridoxine. These include:

• Alcoholism
• Burns
• Diarrhea
• Dialysis
• Heart disease
• Intestinal problems
• Liver disease
• Overactive thyroid
• Stress, long-term illness, or serious injury
• Surgical removal of stomach

In addition, infants receiving unfortified formulas such as evaporated milk may need additional pyridoxine.

Increased need for pyridoxine should be determined by your health care professional.

Lack of pyridoxine may lead to anemia (weak blood), nerve damage, seizures, skin problems, and sores in the mouth. Your doctor may treat these problems by prescribing pyridoxine for you.

Claims that pyridoxine is effective for treatment of acne and other skin problems, alcohol intoxication, asthma, hemorrhoids, kidney stones, mental problems, migraine headaches, morning sickness, and menstrual problems, or to stimulate appetite or milk production have not been proven.

Injectable pyridoxine is given by or under the supervision of a health care professional. Other forms of pyridoxine are available without a prescription.