Junel Fe Dosing

Although Junel Fe comes in two different strengths, the recommended Junel Fe dosing guidelines are standard for every woman using the contraceptive to prevent pregnancy -- one tablet once a day. If you miss Junel Fe doses, it increases your risk of pregnancy. When first starting the drug, you can start it on either the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period starts.

 

An Introduction to Junel Fe Dosing

It is important to take Junel Fe™ (norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol) exactly as directed. As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so. Although the medication is effective when taken as directed, not taking it correctly increases the risk of unintentional pregnancy.
 
Junel Fe comes in two different strengths: Junel Fe 1/20 (a lower dose of hormones) and Junel Fe 1.5/30 (a slightly higher dose of hormones). Your healthcare provider will choose the best Junel Fe dosage for you based on several factors, especially your response to other birth control pills in the past.
 
(Junel Fe is a generic version of Loestrin® Fe. Loestrin Fe is not the same as plain Loestrin® or Loestrin® 24 Fe. The information in this article does not apply to either of these medications.)
 

Junel Fe Dosing for Birth Control

Starting at the beginning of the pack, take one tablet daily at the same time each day. Each pack will last for 28 days (four weeks). After you finish one pack, immediately start a new one the next day. Do not let any days pass between packs (this may take a little planning, as you will need a new pack ready), even if you are still having your period.
 
The first 21 tablets contain the active ingredients. The last seven tablets do not contain any hormones, although they do contain a little iron, which may help prevent anemia from blood loss during your period. During this last week, your body gets a little break from the hormones, allowing you to have a period. Sometimes, you may have breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods. If this happens, keep taking Junel Fe as usual.
 
(Junel Fe Dosing Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;