Description

Alesse (generic name: levonorgestrel - ethinyl estradiol; brand names include: Ovral L) is an oral contraceptive used for preventing pregnancy.

Alesse is a combination birth control pill containing active ingredients levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol. It works by preventing ovulation, altering the cervical mucus, and changing the lining of the uterus, which makes it difficult for sperm to penetrate and for an egg to implant.

Birth control pills may also be prescribed to treat mid-cycle pain which some women experience with ovulation. Birth control pills, while regulating the menstrual cycle, reduce menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding, and, because of the reduced bleeding, they may prevent the anemia that can develop in some women. For this reason they also are sometimes prescribed for a number of conditions that are characterized by excessive bleeding or painful menses.

This medication may also be used to treat acne in women 14 years of age and older or to regulate the menstrual cycle.