Norethindrone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol

Norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol combines a progestin (norethindrone acetate) with a low-dose estrogen (ethinyl estradiol); depending on the specific dose and brand, it is used either as a combined oral contraceptive (e.g., Lo Loestrin Fe) or as hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms (e.g., Femhrt). It works by suppressing ovulation and altering the uterine lining for contraception, or by supplementing declining estrogen/progestin levels for menopausal symptom relief. Combined hormone products carry class warnings for increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and cardiovascular events, particularly in smokers and women over 35.