Alesse® (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is one of the many oral contraceptives (birth control pills) available. It belongs to a group of medications known as combined oral contraceptives, named because they contain a combination of two different types of hormones. Alesse is made by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Generic Alesse is available, although it is sold under what looks like other brand names, rather than the usual generic name.

Alesse® (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription birth control pill. It is a combined oral contraceptive (so named because it contains both a progestin and an estrogen hormone). Although some birth control pills are considered okay for breastfeeding, most are not usually recommended. In particular, "combined" oral contraceptives (such as Alesse) should usually be avoided. Although combined oral contraceptives are effective at preventing pregnancy, they are typically not recommended for breastfeeding women.

Alesse and Pregnancy: An OverviewAlesse® (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol) is a birth control pill, known medically as an oral contraceptive. You should not intentionally take Alesse (or any other bi

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Alesse® (levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol); however, not all women who use the contraceptive will experience side effects. In fact, most tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. (This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Alesse. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Alesse side effects with you. Alesse is equivalent to Aviane® and Lutera™ birth control pills. The information in this article also applies to both of these medications.)