Triphasil

Triphasil is a brand-name oral contraceptive that is available by prescription. It is one of the most common types of birth control pills, containing both an estrogen and a progestin. Each pack of Triphasil contains three "phases" of tablets, each with a different amount of hormones. These pills must be taken in order. Potential side effects of Triphasil include nausea, vomiting, and acne.

 

What Is Triphasil?

Triphasil® (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription birth control pill. It is available in two generic forms, sold under the names:
 
  • Enpresse® (made by Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
  • Trivora® (made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).
     
(Click Triphasil Uses for more information on what Triphasil is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Triphasil?

Triphasil is made by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Generic versions of Triphasil are made by other manufacturers (see Generic Triphasil for more information).
 

How Does Triphasil Work?

Triphasil is a "combined" oral contraceptive, which means that it contains two different types of hormones. It contains both an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin (levonorgestrel). Combined oral contraceptives are the most commonly used type of birth control pills. Generally, combined oral contraceptives are more effective than progestin-only birth control pills.
 
Most importantly, the hormones in Triphasil prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries). However, the pill also works to prevent pregnancy in two other, less important ways. Triphasil changes the cervical mucus (the fluid of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina), making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. Lastly, Triphasil alters the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium), making it less receptive to an embryo.
 
Triphasil is known as a triphasic birth control pill (hence the name Triphasil), which means that there are three different "phases" of pills in each pack (plus the last week of tablets with no active ingredients). Each week has a different amount of the hormones in Triphasil. This is why it is very important to take the pills in the correct order.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;