Apri Coupon & Discounts

Apri Information:

• What

What is Apri?

Apri is a birth control medication that reduces the chance of becoming pregnant to less than 1% when taken correctly. It contains two female hormones--ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and desogestrel (a progestin)—which prevent ovulation and cause cervical mucus to become thicker, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. This medication alone will not prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

• How

How do I take Apri?

Birth control drugs like Apri are most effective when taken at the same time every day, so pick a time that is easy for you to remember. If you are just starting this oral contraceptive, take the first pill in the package on the first Sunday after your period begins (or the day your period begins, if it is a Sunday). Continue taking one pill per day in the order they appear in the package, and be sure to refill your prescription before you run out. The first 21 Apri pills are “active” (meaning they contain hormones) while the last 7 are “reminder pills” (with no hormones), and once your body has adjusted to the medication, your period should occur during the week you are taking the reminder pills.

• Precautions

Before taking Apri, tell your doctor if:

• You are allergic to this or any other medications
• You are taking any other prescription or non-prescription drugs or supplements
• You have risk factors for blood clots or heart attacks (e.g. you smoke, are over 35, or are overweight)
• You have high blood pressure
• You have high cholesterol or triglycerides
• You have had a stroke, heart attack, or other heart problems
• You have a blood-clotting or circulation disorder
• You have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• You have severe migraines
• You have a personal or family history of hormone-related cancer or an abnormal mammogram
• You have diabetes
• You have a history of jaundice during pregnancy or while taking a hormonal form of birth control
• You have a history of depression
• You have tuberculosis
• You have irregular menstrual cycles
• You have a seizure disorder
• You have gallbladder disease
• You have an underactive thyroid
• You are breastfeeding or think you may be pregnant
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking Apri?

You may experience light spotting or breakthrough bleeding during the first few months you are taking Apri. This will likely stop as your body adjusts to the medication, but if you experience unusual bleeding that continues for more than one menstrual cycle or lasts for more than a few days at a time, tell your doctor. You may also experience nausea, vomiting, headaches, changes in appetite, dizziness, bloating, weight changes, problems wearing contact lenses, mild vaginal irritation, or loss of appetite. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any rare but serious side effects, including severe chest or stomach pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, breast lumps, unusual vision changes, severe fatigue, jaundice, or dark urine.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of Apri?

If you miss one of the active Apri pills, take it as soon as you remember, even if this means taking two pills in one day. If you miss two active pills in the first or second week of the package, take two pills on the day you remember and two the next day, and then resume your normal schedule. If you miss two pills during the third week, or if you miss three or more pills during the first two weeks, throw out the rest of the package and start a new package. You will need to use a backup method of birth control for at least seven days after the missed doses, and you may not have your period when you normally do. If you miss your period two months in a row, call your doctor.

• Storage

How do I store Apri?

Keep the Apri drug at room temperature, away from bright light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom, and do not leave it anywhere that children or pets could reach it. 

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on Apri?

Overdosing on Apri can be dangerous and may cause severe nausea or vaginal bleeding. If you or someone in your household has overdosed, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or contact your doctor right away.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Do not smoke while using Apri, as smoking increases your risk of blood clots. If you have vomiting or diarrhea while taking this medication, let your doctor know. You may need to use a backup method of birth control.

Brand Names

Apri is a generic form of birth control. The same hormone combination drug is also available under several brand names, including Ortho-Cept and Desogen. Talk to your doctor to determine which form of birth control is right for you, and use a coupon from HelpRx to reduce the cost of Apri or any other medication not covered by your insurance.