What is the most important information I should know about Estrostep Fe?
Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects (such as blood clots, heart attacks, and stroke) when combined with oral contraceptives such as Estrostep Fe. This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is significantly increased in women over 35 years of age. Women who use oral contraceptives should be strongly advised not to smoke. Estrostep Fe does not protect against transmission of HIV (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases. You may need to use back-up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide when you first start using this medication. Follow your doctor’s instructions. If you experience vomiting or diarrhea for any reason, or if you are taking medication (such as an antibiotic), make sure to use a back-up birth control method (such as condoms or spermicide) until you check with your doctor. You may have breakthrough bleeding, especially during the first 3 months. Do not stop taking Estrostep Fe i
