Cerazette Tablets

Price range: £10.99 through £21.99

Cerazette is a prescription-only progestogen-only pill containing desogestrel 75 µg.
It offers once-daily estrogen-free contraception by thickening cervical mucus and often suppressing ovulation, with no gap between packs and ideal for breastfeeding or migraine sufferers.
Packaging and branding may vary.

Clear Start Assessment

Cerazette is a daily progesterone-only contraceptive pill (POP), also known as the mini pill, formulated to prevent pregnancy in women of childbearing age. It is often recommended for those who cannot take oestrogen, such as breastfeeding mothers or women with certain health risks like high blood pressure or a history of thrombosis. Unlike older mini pills, Cerazette offers superior ovulation suppression, making it one of the most effective progestogen-only options available. It provides continuous, hormone-based protection without the need for monthly breaks.

How It Works
Cerazette contains 75 micrograms of desogestrel, a synthetic version of the natural hormone progesterone. It works primarily by inhibiting ovulation — preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries. In addition, it thickens cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus and fertilise an egg. The endometrial lining also becomes less receptive to implantation. These combined mechanisms offer reliable contraception when the pill is taken daily at the same time without interruption.

Why Choose Cerazette
Cerazette is an ideal contraceptive solution for women seeking a reliable, hormone-only method of birth control without the risks associated with oestrogen. It is especially suited for women who are breastfeeding, have cardiovascular risk factors, or are over the age of 35 and smoke. Because Cerazette consistently prevents ovulation, it offers a higher efficacy rate than traditional mini pills. It may also result in lighter periods or the complete absence of bleeding, which many users find convenient. With a no-break, daily format, Cerazette provides straightforward and dependable protection that integrates easily into everyday routines.

Important Note
Cerazette must be taken at the same time every day to maintain its effectiveness. If a pill is missed by more than 12 hours, contraceptive protection may be reduced, and additional precautions may be required. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Women with a history of breast cancer, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding should not use Cerazette. Before starting, switching, or restarting this medication, consult a doctor or pharmacist to confirm suitability and discuss any potential interactions or health considerations.

Directions

Please refer to the medication’s patient information leaflet before starting any new medication.

  • Take one tablet at the same time every day without breaks

  • No hormone-free interval between packs

  • Swallow whole with water

  • Missing a dose by more than 12 hours may reduce protection

  • Store below 25°C

  • Keep in original packaging

  • Keep out of reach of children

Ingredients

Active Ingredient:

  • Desogestrel 75 micrograms

Other Ingredients:

  • Lactose monohydrate

  • Povidone

  • Silica colloidal anhydrous

  • Maize starch

  • Magnesium stearate

  • Hypromellose

  • Titanium dioxide

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

  • Irregular bleeding

  • Acne

  • Mood swings

  • Headache

  • Nausea

Serious (rare) side effects:

  • Blood clots

  • Breast cancer

  • Liver dysfunction

  • Severe allergic reaction

Stop the medicine and seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Warnings

Do not take Cerazette if you have a history of breast cancer, liver disease, or if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. This medicine is not suitable for women with unexplained vaginal bleeding. It does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections. Consult your doctor for personalised advice.

  • When taken correctly (one pill at the same time every day), Cerazette is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Missing pills or taking them late may reduce its reliability.
  • Yes, Cerazette is safe to take while breastfeeding. It doesn’t affect milk supply or quality, making it a good contraceptive choice for new mums.
  • If you’re less than 12 hours late, take the missed pill as soon as you remember—protection is maintained.
    If you’re more than 12 hours late, take the pill as soon as possible and use extra contraception (like condoms) for the next 2 days.
  • It might. Some women stop getting periods altogether, while others may have irregular bleeding or spotting. These changes are common and usually settle with time.
  • You can start at any time, but for immediate protection, begin taking it between days 1–5 of your period. If you start later, use condoms for the first 2 days to stay protected.