Norinyl Uses

Norinyl is primarily used for birth control, but it can also be used "off-label" to treat several conditions. Some off-label Norinyl uses include the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), heavy menstrual bleeding, and irregular menstrual periods. Norinyl is only approved for use in females who are of reproductive age (who have started their menstrual periods).

 

What Is Norinyl Used For?

Norinyl® is an oral contraceptive, more commonly known as a birth control pill. There are actually two different types of Norinyl available, including:
 
  • Norinyl 1+35 (norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol), a monophasic birth control pill, equivalent to Ortho-Novum® 1/35
  • Norinyl 1+50 (norethindrone and mestranol), a monophasic pill that contains a high dose of estrogen, equivalent to Ortho-Novum 1/50.
     
"Monophasic" means that there is only one dose of hormones throughout each pack.
 

Norinyl Uses for Birth Control

Like most birth control pills, Norinyl is easy to use, very effective, and also offers the following benefits:
 
  • Regular, predictable menstrual periods
  • Less menstrual pain
  • Lighter menstrual bleeding
  • A decreased risk of ovarian or endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the uterus).
     
Today, women can choose from a large variety of different birth control options. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and no particular birth control method is right for all women. Some of the most commonly used birth control methods include:
 
  • Barrier contraceptives -- Condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and various other methods that physically block the sperm from entering the uterus
     
  • Spermicides -- Foams, jellies, gels, suppositories, and inserts
     
  • Periodic abstinence, sometimes known as natural family planning or the rhythm method -- Avoiding intercourse during the fertile phase of your menstrual cycle
     
  • Withdrawal -- Removing the penis from the vagina prior to ejaculation
     
  • Combined hormonal contraceptives (which contain a progestin and an estrogen) -- Most birth control pills, patches, and rings
     
  • Progestin-only contraceptives -- Some birth control pills ("mini-pills"), injections, and implants
     
  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs) -- Implanted devices that are both very effective and reversible
     
  • Surgical sterilization -- Tubal ligation (getting your "tubes tied") or a vasectomy (for men).
     
Like most birth control pills, Norinyl falls into the category of combined hormonal contraceptives, as it contains both an estrogen (either ethinyl estradiol or mestranol, depending on the product) and a progestin (norethindrone). Birth control pills are often a great contraceptive choice for many women. However, combined hormonal contraceptives may increase the risk of blood clots and other problems, and not all women should take combined hormonal contraceptives (see Norinyl Warnings and Precautions for more information).
 
As with almost all methods of birth control, Norinyl must be used correctly and consistently in order to prevent pregnancy. Importantly, Norinyl does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In many situations, it is advisable to use condoms in addition to Norinyl (to prevent the transmission of STDs).
 
(Norinyl Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;