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Mercilon
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Mercilon is a combined oral contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy by utilising the active ingredients desogestrel and ethinylestradiol to inhibit ovulation.
- Combined oral contraceptive pill for reliable pregnancy prevention
- Contains low-dose active hormones desogestrel and ethinylestradiol
- Easy to manage 21-day blister pack treatment cycle
- Available via convenient online consultation and UK delivery
More information
"Mercilon is a widely prescribed combined hormonal contraceptive typically used by women to prevent unintended pregnancy. As a low-dose pill, it is often preferred by patients who may be more sensitive to higher levels of oestrogen while still requiring effective birth control." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy Mercilon online through Mail my Meds by completing a straightforward online consultation that is reviewed by a GMC-registered prescriber. If your consultation is approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped directly from our UK pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) using discreet packaging to ensure your privacy is maintained throughout the process.
The price of Mercilon varies depending on the quantity prescribed during your consultation, though we aim to provide competitive pricing for both private and NHS repeat prescriptions. By choosing an online pharmacy, you save time on travel and waiting rooms while accessing a transparent pricing structure for your regular contraceptive needs.
We offer several reliable delivery options to ensure your medication reaches you quickly and securely once it has been approved by our clinical team. All orders are tracked and packaged discreetly, so the contents are not visible from the outside of the parcel, providing you with total peace of mind.
Mercilon is a combined oral contraceptive (COC) pill primarily used to prevent pregnancy in women of childbearing age. It belongs to a class of medications known as "the pill" and contains two types of female hormones that work together to provide high levels of contraceptive protection when taken correctly.
The active ingredients in Mercilon are desogestrel and ethinylestradiol, which are synthetic versions of the female hormones progesterone and oestrogen. Each tablet contains 150 micrograms of desogestrel and 20 micrograms of ethinylestradiol, making it a "low-dose" combined pill compared to other formulations.
User experiences with Mercilon are generally positive, with many women reporting that the low oestrogen content leads to fewer hormonal side effects like nausea or breast tenderness. While individual experiences vary, it is a popular choice for those looking for a reliable contraceptive that is easy to incorporate into a daily routine.
The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is included in every pack of Mercilon and contains essential data regarding ingredients, usage and safety. You should read this document thoroughly before starting your treatment to understand the full clinical profile of the medication provided by the manufacturer.
Mercilon works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries and thickening the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach an egg. Additionally, it thins the lining of the womb to prevent a fertilised egg from implanting, providing a multi-layered approach to contraception.
To use Mercilon correctly, you should take one tablet at the same time every day for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break where you do not take any pills. During this week-long break, you will usually experience a withdrawal bleed similar to a period before starting your next blister pack.
The standard dosage for Mercilon is one tablet daily, which should be swallowed whole with water. It is vital not to skip doses, as missing a pill can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive and increase the risk of pregnancy.
Common side effects of Mercilon may include headaches, changes in body weight, mood swings or breast sensitivity. While many women find these symptoms settle after the first few months, you should contact a healthcare professional if you experience any persistent or severe adverse effects.
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Changes in libido
- Fluid retention
- Irregular spotting between periods
Mercilon may not be suitable for women who smoke and are over 35, those with a history of blood clots or individuals with certain heart conditions. It is important to disclose your full medical history during your consultation to ensure that a combined hormonal contraceptive is the safest option for you.
Mercilon is often compared to other combined pills like Microgynon or Rigevidon, but it contains a lower dose of oestrogen which may suit different patients. Unlike the "mini-pill" which only contains progestogen, Mercilon offers a more predictable cycle for many users.
| Feature | Mercilon | Standard Combined Pill | Progestogen-Only Pill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hormones | Desogestrel & Ethinylestradiol | Levonorgestrel & Ethinylestradiol | Progestogen only |
| Oestrogen Dose | Low (20mcg) | Standard (30-35mcg) | None |
| Period Control | High | High | Variable |
Can I miss a period on Mercilon?
Yes, it is possible to delay or miss a period by starting a new pack immediately after finishing the previous one without taking the 7-day break. You should consult with a prescriber before changing how you take your medication.
What should I do if I miss a pill?
If you miss a pill, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet immediately. Generally, if you are less than 12 hours late, your protection should remain intact. If it has been longer, you may need to use barrier contraception like condoms for several days.
Does Mercilon protect against STIs?
No, Mercilon is designed solely to prevent pregnancy and does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You should use condoms to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading infections.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist for personalised medical guidance regarding your contraceptive needs.
Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts to ensure it is up to date and accurate. We strive to provide the most current clinical information to help you make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing.

