Cerelle contraceptive pill

Take 1 pill every day, at the same time. Take the packs back-to-back without a break, including during your period. Many women won’t have their period at all while on Cerelle – this is normal and should not cause concern.

Cerelle is a form of progestogen-only mini pill. Its active ingredient is desogestrel, which is a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone. Cerelle is prescribed to sexually active women who do not want to get pregnant. It's the generic version of Cerazette - it contains the same active ingredient and works in the same way.

If you start using Cerelle on days 1-5 of your period, you will be immediately protected against pregnancy.

Used correctly, Cerelle can be up to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if you are vomiting or have severe diarrhoea you may not be protected against pregnancy. If this happens, continue to take the pill as usual but use a condom whilst you're ill. If this continues for more than 24 hours you should follow the same steps as a missed pill. 

Most women will not experience any side effects on Cerelle, but some report irregular bleeding - this usually settles within 3 months. Other side effects can include headaches, acne, feeling sick, mood swings, and breast sensitivity.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

If you forget to take it, unlike most mini pills, Cerelle offers a window of 12 hours in which it can be taken and still protect you from pregnancy. Take the forgotten pill as soon as you remember. Then take the next pill at the normal time. This may mean taking 2 pills in one day.

If you do not take it within 12hrs of the usual time, you will not be protected against pregnancy. Continue to take your pills as usual but use condoms for the next two days. If you've had unprotected sex during this time, you may need emergency contraception.

Cerelle, as a progestogen-only pill, is suitable for smokers, and is therefore a good alternative to the combined contraceptive pill.

There is no evidence that the progestogen-only pill, like Cerelle, will cause women to put on weight. You may find your weight changes throughout your cycle due to fluid retention and other reasons not related to the pill.