In-Depth Look At Visanne: Uses, Effects, And Recommended Treatment Period
Visanne is a hormonal medication containing dienogest, a progestin, also known as a synthetic form of progesterone. It is useful in the treatment of endometriosis, which is associated with painful symptoms resulting from displaced tissue of the womb's lining.
The active ingredient, dienogest, has strong endometrial efficacy, underscoring its use to treat endometriosis. It provides antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory benefits in treating endometriotic lesions.
Understanding Visanne Usage
Indication: Treatment of endometrial lesions symptoms
Visanne is indicated in the long-term treatment of endometriosis in adults and adolescents after their first menstrual cycle from 12 years of age onwards. It works by shrinking the endometrial tissue and reducing symptoms associated with endometriosis, such as pelvic pain and painful periods.
Differentiating from Birth Control Pills
While Visanne contains progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, it is essential to note that Visanne is not meant to be used as a birth control pill.
Unlike combined oral contraceptives containing estrogen and progesterone, the most commonly prescribed pill for contraception in the United States of America, Visanne only contains the progesterone component. It was not developed for and has not been studied for contraception and hence, women taking dienogest for endometriosis should use non-hormonal methods of contraception if contraception is desired.
For a more comprehensive dive into birth control pills, you may check out our article on Yasmin.
Precautions and Warnings
Visanne may not be suitable for certain groups, and there are some precautions and warnings to be aware of.
A. Blood Clots Risk
Similar to other hormone-containing medications, Visanne has the potential to increase the risk of blood clots. On infrequent occasions, blot clots may lead to permanent disabilities or fatality. Before starting on Visanne, it is crucial to seek consultation from a healthcare professional if you have ever had a blood clot or if anyone in your immediate family has been known to have had it at a young age.
B. Breast Cancer Concerns
While data and evidence do not show a clear causal relationship between Visanne and breast cancer, it is found that breast cancer is more commonly observed in women on hormonal medications. As such, it is essential to practice increased vigilance by regularly checking your breasts and contacting your healthcare professional should you notice any lumps.
C. Impact of Cigarette Smoking
Cigarette smoking causes an increased risk of severe adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels and may also lead to a decline in bone mineral density. Therefore, it is advisable to stop smoking when on Visanne.
D. Potential for Depression
Depression is listed as one of the uncommon adverse effects of Visanne, which may affect up to 1 in 100 consumers. It is crucial to understand the potential for depression associated with the use of Visanne and inform your healthcare professional if you notice any mood changes. For patients who have a history of depression, mood changes should be carefully observed, and Visanne should be discontinued if depression recurs to a severe degree.
E. Influence on Diabetes Control
Visanne may hinder diabetes control as it may slightly induce peripheral insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) advises that diabetic Visanne consumers, especially those with a history of gestational diabetes, be carefully monitored when on the medication. It is best to consult a healthcare professional if you have diabetes or a history of gestational diabetes before taking Visanne.
F. Effects on Menstrual Patterns
The use of hormonal medications like Visanne has been associated with changes in the menstrual cycle, including prolonged, irregular, or infrequent bleeding. These changes were occasionally reported and generally well-tolerated. Upon cessation of Visanne treatment, it will take up to two months for the menstrual cycle to return to pretreatment patterns.
If abnormalities in the menstrual cycle persist, or if bleeding is heavy, severe, or continues for an extended period, potentially resulting in anaemia, consult a healthcare professional for advice.
G. Relationship with Liver Disease
Individuals with a history or presence of severe liver disease and whose liver function values are still abnormal should not use Visanne. Watch for any symptoms of liver issues, such as skin yellowing and itching throughout the body.
H. Risk of Osteoporosis
The use of Visanne may moderately decrease endogenous estrogen levels, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. It is also helpful to note that using Visanne may be linked to reduced bone mineral density in adolescent patients. However, it is reported to increase again after cessation of treatment. However, it is unknown if this decline in bone mineral density will reduce peak bone mass and increase fracture risk later in life.
A 3-year-long study has found that the long-term use of dienogest is associated with a significant decrease in bone mineral density compared to baseline, with bone loss predominantly occurring during the initial 1 year of treatment.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to maintain an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D for optimal bone health in women of all ages and consult a trusted healthcare professional, especially in the presence of significant risk factors for osteoporosis, such as a family history of osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease.
I. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations
Visanne should not be used in pregnant and breastfeeding women. There may be an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if pregnancy occurs while a patient is taking dienogest. If pregnancy is suspected while on Visanne, do contact your healthcare professional immediately, as the treatment should be discontinued.
Post-Visanne Consumption Effects
As with all other medications, Visanne can also cause side effects. These side effects are more common in the initial months of treatment and typically improve over time. Some common side effects affecting up to 1 in 10 patients include:
- Weight gain
- Depressed mood, problems sleeping, nervousness, or loss of interest in sex
- Headache or migraine
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Acne or hair loss
- Breast discomfort
- Ovarian cyst
- Uterine/vaginal bleeding including spotting
- Generalized weakness
- Irritability
Recommended Treatment Duration
Availability and Where to Find Visanne
In Singapore, Visanne is a prescription-only medication that can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a doctor. With Glovida-Rx, a reputable online pharmacy in Singapore, you can conveniently send your prescription and consult our pharmacists remotely to receive Visanne via doorstep delivery. If you do not possess a prescription, our pharmacists can connect you with our participating doctors, who can provide a diagnosis and prescribe the necessary medications.
Conclusion
Visanne is a hormonal medication used for the management of symptoms associated with endometriosis, such as pelvic pain and painful periods. While it is indicated to treat endometriosis, it is essential to understand the medication and its potential side effects before starting treatment. Feel free to seek advice from a healthcare professional if you have any doubts during the treatment duration or experience any side effects.
Glovida-Rx believes in providing comprehensive counselling to help our customers make informed decisions. Our pharmacists have the expertise and knowledge to provide personalized advice and guide you through selecting the most suitable medications to optimize your well-being. Visit our website, www.glovida-rx.com.sg, for more information, and feel free to contact us at +65 8101 5555 if you have any queries.
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