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Cerazette Desogestrel 75mcg Mini-Pill
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Treatment Information
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Table of contents:
What is Cerazette?
Cerazette is a progestogen-only pill (or mini-pill), which means it does not contain oestrogen. Each tablet has 75 mcg of desogestrel, which mimics the effects of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. This may make the medication more suitable if you cannot take the combined pill, which contains both oestrogen and progesterone (or synthetic alternatives).
Cerazette is a branded treatment (along with Cerelle), though generic formulations of desogestrel may be available.
How Does Cerazette Work?
Desogestrel works by mimicking the natural female hormone progesterone in the body. It works in several ways to prevent pregnancy. They are:
- Stopping ovulation or the release of a mature egg from the ovaries every month. This is Cerazette's main mechanism of action.
- Thickening the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg and fertilising it.
Cerazette works slightly differently from traditional mini-pills like Noriday because it mainly provides contraceptive benefits by inhibiting ovulation, whereas older treatments rely more on changes to cervical mucus, stopping sperm cells from meeting an egg, and other effects. The ability to stop ovulation is therefore a distinct benefit that sets Cerazette pills apart from other progestogen-only tablets.
Like other desogestrel-containing progestogen-only pills, Cerazette may also have additional contraceptive effects on the endometrium (womb lining) and the activity of cilia in the fallopian tubes.
It's important to note that Cerazette birth control pills will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The most reliable contraception method to protect you and your partners against STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, is condoms.
How Effective is Cerazette?
All mini-pills, including Cerazette, are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when they are taken perfectly. However, in reality, when factors like missing pills and being sick are taken into consideration, the mini pill is closer to being 91% effective. That means that each year, 9 out of 100 Cerazette users will get pregnant.
Clinical trials show that Cerazette stops ovulation from the first cycle of use. Ovulation occurred in just 1% of users.
How Long Does it Take for Cerazette to Work?
If you start Cerazette on day 1 of your period, you will be protected against pregnancy straight away and will not need to use any additional contraception. If you start Cerazette on days 2 to 5 of your period, or any time after that, you will need to use an additional method of contraception, like condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Cerazette.
How to Take Cerazette Birth Control Pills
Ideally, you should start taking Cerazette on day 1 of your period for immediate protection from pregnancy. Cerazette strips contain 28 pills, and you should take your pill whole at the same time every day with water.
To take Cerazette, you should:
- Start by taking the first pill from the top row. Don't just take any pill from the top row. If it is Monday, take the pill on the top row marked 'MON'. The days of the week are printed on the back of the strip.
- Continue to take one pill every day, following the direction of the arrows until the strip is finished. You can check the back of the pack to confirm you took the pill on a specific day.
- When the strip is empty, start a new Cerazette strip the next day without a break or waiting for a bleed.
You may have some vaginal bleeding when using Cerazette, but you must continue taking the tablets as normal without stopping.
What to Do If You're Changing to Cerazette From Another Contraceptive
If you are switching to Cerazette from another brand of mini pill, you can start Cerazette on any day and will not need to use additional contraception.
If you are changing to Cerazette from a combined pill, vaginal ring, or contraceptive patch and you don't have a tablet, ring, or patch-free break:
- Start taking Cerazette on the day after your last pill or on the day of removal of your vaginal ring or patch.
- If your current pill contains inactive or placebo pills, you can start Cerazette on the day after your last active tablet.
- By following these instructions, you do not need to use an additional method of contraception and will be protected against pregnancy straight away.
If you have a pill, ring, or patch-free break, you can:
- Start on the day after your pill, ring, or patch-free break ends, or when you have taken all of the inactive or placebo pills for your current contraceptive method.
- You must use an additional barrier method, such as condoms, for the first 7-days of taking Cerazette.
If you switch from an injection, implant, or hormonal intrauterine system (IUS), start taking Cerazette when your next injection is due or on the day that your implant or IUS is removed. You do not need to use an additional method of contraception.
Cerazette Missed Pill Guidance
Cerazette is a 12-hour pill, which means it must be taken within 12 hours of the same time each day to remain effective. Some pills are 3-hour pills, so Cerazette offers more flexibility than some other mini-pill brands.
If you are less than 12 hours late taking Cerazette, take the missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next one at the usual time. You will still be protected against pregnancy.
If you are more than 12 hours late taking Cerazette, you may not be protected against pregnancy. You should take the missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next one at the usual time, even if it means taking two pills in one day. If you've forgotten to take more than one tablet, do not try to make up for more than one missed pill. Continue taking your pills as normal, but you will need to use an extra contraceptive method, such as condoms, for the next 7 days.
If you are more than 12 hours late taking Cerazette and have had unprotected sex, you should speak to a clinician about emergency contraception.
If you missed one or more tablets in the very first week of starting Cerazette and had sex in the week before missing your pill, you may get pregnant. You should speak to your clinician for advice.
What if I Take Too Many Cerazette Tablets?
Taking too many Cerazette pills is unlikely to cause you serious harm, but you may feel nauseous, vomit, or have some vaginal bleeding. If you get any of these symptoms or are concerned that you have taken too many Cerazette pills, contact your clinician for advice.
What if I Am Sick or Have an Upset Stomach When Taking Cerazette?
If you are sick (vomit) within 3 to 4 hours of taking Cerazette, or you have severe diarrhoea, your body may not have had time to fully absorb the active ingredient. You should follow the missed pill advice above or in the Patient Information Leaflet.
The NHS also has guidance on what to do if you're sick or have diarrhoea when taking progestogen-only pills.
Cerazette Side Effects and Cautions
Before taking Cerazette, it is important to familiarise yourself with the potential side effects and cautions, so that you know what to expect.
Cerazette Pill Side Effects
Like all medicines, Cerazette can cause side effects, although not everyone will get them. Most people find that these symptoms ease or go away as their body gets used to the medication.
Common Side Effects | Uncommon Side Effects | Rare Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Mood changes and depression Reduced sex drive Headache Nausea Acne Breast pain Irregular or absent periods Weight gain | Vaginal infection Difficulties wearing contact lenses Vomiting Hair loss Painful periods Ovarian cysts Tiredness | Rash Hives Painful blue-red skin lumps (erythema nodosum) |
This is not an exhaustive list of potential Cerazette side effects. Further information can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet enclosed in the packaging.
If you get any Cerazette side effects, including any that aren't listed here, you can report them to the Yellow Card Scheme. If you experience any side effects that are difficult to manage or do not go away, contact your clinician for advice.
Cerazette Pills and Blood Clots
There is a very low risk of developing a blood clot while taking Cerazette compared to combined hormonal pills. There is a risk of getting a blood clot even if you are not taking the pill, and if you are pregnant.
If you have a history of blood clots, you should tell your clinician so they can assess if Cerazette is right for you. Because the risk of blood clots is lower in mini pills, if you are over 35 and smoke, Cerazette may be a more suitable option than the combined pill for preventing pregnancy. However, it is recommended that you avoid smoking because of the wider health risks.
Cerazette Tablets and Breast Cancer Risk
There is a slightly increased risk of breast cancer when taking Cerazette. However, the risk returns to the same level as someone who has never taken the pill 10 years after you stop taking Cerazette.
The risk of developing breast cancer is not influenced by how long you take Cerazette for, but by the age at which you stop taking it. That's because the risk of breast cancer increases with age.
Scenario | Number of extra cases found up to 10 years after stopping | The usual incidence of breast cancer in this age group (out of 10,000 people) |
|---|---|---|
Every 10,000 people who take the pill for up to 5 years, but stop by the age of 20. | 1 | 4 |
Every 10,000 people who take the pill for up to 5 years, but stop by the age of 30. | 5 | 44 |
Every 10,000 people who take the pill for up to 5 years, but stop by the age of 40. | 20 | 160 |
If you are concerned about the risk of breast cancer while taking Cerazette or have a family history of breast cancer, speak to your clinician.
Cerazette Warnings and Interactions
Although it is a highly effective method of contraception, Cerazette may not be suitable for everyone. It is important you discuss any health conditions you have and any medicines you are taking with a clinician before starting Cerazette, so they can make sure it is safe and suitable for you.
Do not take Cerazette if you:
- Are allergic to desogestrel or any other Cerazette ingredients
- Have a blood clot in a blood vessel in your legs, lungs, or any other organ
- Have or have had jaundice
- Have or are suspected of having a type of cancer that grows under the influence of sex steroids, such as breast cancer
- Have any unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Have severe liver disease, and your liver is not functioning as normal
Before taking Cerazette, tell your clinician if you have:
- Or have ever had breast cancer
- Liver cancer
- Ever had a blood clot
- Have epilepsy
- Have tuberculosis
- Have high blood pressure
- Have ever had chloasma
Cerazette Interactions
Some medications can affect how Cerazette works, and vice versa. It is important to tell the clinician during your consultation about any prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal remedies you are taking.
Tell your clinician if you are taking any medications to treat:
- Epilepsy
- Tuberculosis
- HIV infections
- Hepatitis C
- Infectious diseases
- High blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs
- Depression
- Certain bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
- High blood pressure, angina, or certain heart rhythm disorders
If you are taking any medicines or herbal products that could make Cerazette less effective, you should also use a barrier method of contraception, like condoms.
Allergic Reactions
Rarely, Cerazette can cause an allergic reaction. If you know you are allergic to desogestrel or any other ingredients, you should not take Cerazette.
Signs of an allergic reaction can include:
- A feeling of tightness in the chest
- Dry, inflamed or cracked skin
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- A raised, itchy skin rash (often referred to as hives)
- Swelling affecting the lips, tongue, face, or eyes
- Digestive symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
If you get any allergic reaction symptoms, stop taking Cerazette immediately and get urgent medical help. Go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department or call 999, and take the medication packaging along with any remaining tablets with you.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not take Cerazette if you are or think you might be pregnant. You may use the medication while breastfeeding, and it does not appear to affect the quality of your milk. However, there have been reports of reduced breast milk production while taking Cerazette. A small amount of desogestrel can pass into your milk. If you are concerned, speak to your clinician or midwife for more advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cerazette Pills
Is Cerazette Progesterone Only?
Yes, Cerazette is a progestogen-only pill, which means it does not contain oestrogen. It contains desogestrel, a synthetic version of the female sex hormone, progesterone. Cerazette is a branded mini pill, which may be a suitable birth control option for anyone who cannot take oestrogen or is at a higher risk of getting a blood clot.
Is Cerazette a Combined Pill?
No, Cerazette is not a combined pill. It is a progestogen-only or mini pill. That means it contains only a synthetic form of progesterone, desogestrel, and does not contain oestrogen, unlike a combined pill, which contains both oestrogen and progesterone.
At Prescription Doctor, we offer a range of combined contraceptive pills, including Lucette, Zoely, and Yasmin.
Are Cerazette Contraceptive Pills 100% Effective?
No form of contraception is 100% effective. While Cerazette is over 95% effective, we suggest you use additional methods of contraception, such as condoms, if you want to be totally certain. This would also help prevent STIs. It's important to take Cerazette (desogestrel) as prescribed.
Can Cerazette Be Used as Emergency Contraception?
No, Cerazette cannot be used as emergency contraception. It is a daily, long-term progestogen-only mini pill that is designed to stop you getting pregnant over time and not immediately after unprotected sex. If you have missed a pill and had unprotected sex, you may need a dedicated morning-after pill, like ellaOne or Levonelle.
I'm Experiencing Heavy Bleeding on Cerazette. What Do I Do?
You should continue taking Cerazette at the same time each day. Do not stop taking the pill, as this can make the bleeding worse and reduce its effectiveness. If the bleeding lasts for more than 8 days or is very heavy, painful, or happens even after taking the pill for longer than three months, speak to your clinician.
Vaginal bleeding is a common, temporary side effect of taking a mini pill like Cerazette. It usually happens in the first 3 to 6 months of starting the pill as your body gets used to the hormonal changes taking place.
Can Cerazette Cause Migraines?
Yes, Cerazette can cause or worsen migraines and headaches in some people. If you get headaches while taking Cerazette, they can usually be managed at home with over-the-counter painkillers, rest, and staying hydrated. If your migraine or headache is severe or you are concerned, speak to a clinician.
Can Cerazette Cause Depression?
Yes, mood changes and depression are listed as common Cerazette side effects, affecting up to 1 in 10 users. If you experience mood changes or depression, you should consult your doctor immediately. If you get any thoughts of self-harm, get medical help straight away.
Can Cerazette Cause Thrush?
Yes, vaginal infections, such as thrush, are an uncommon side effect of Cerazette, affecting up to 1 in 100 people. The progestogen in the pill can alter the hormonal balance, leading to changes in vaginal pH that promote the overgrowth of yeast. You can get thrush treatment from Prescription Doctor.
Can Cerazette Stop Your Period?
Yes, Cerazette can stop periods from occurring in many users, though it affects everyone differently. Absent periods are listed as a common side effect, affecting up to 1 in 10 users. These changes are normal and usually nothing to worry about.
Can Cerazette Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, hair loss is a side effect of Cerazette, though not everyone experiences it. It is thought to affect around 1 in 100 users, and is often temporary and is most likely to occur when you first start taking the pill.
Does Cerazette Cause Weight Gain?
While weight gain is listed as a potentially common side effect, there is no strong scientific evidence that the mini pill directly causes weight gain. Weight changes while taking the pill can be caused by fluid retention, changes in appetite, or other factors.
If you are worried about gaining weight while taking Cerazette, it is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet and get regular exercise. Your clinician can also offer further support.
What Happens if I Want to Get Pregnant While Taking Cerazette?
If you want to get pregnant, you can stop taking Cerazette at any time. There is no need to wait to finish your current strip. You will no longer be protected against pregnancy from the day you stop taking the Cerazette pill.
How Soon After Giving Birth Can I Take Cerazette?
You can start using Cerazette (desogestrel) between 21 and 28 days after your baby's birth. If you start later, you will need to use an additional method of contraception, like condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Cerazette to give the treatment enough time to reach its full efficacy levels.
Can You Buy Cerazette Over the Counter?
No, Cerazette is not available over the counter, as you will need a prescription from a clinician to get it. An over-the-counter desogestrel mini-pill alternative is Hana, which also contains 75 mcg of desogestrel but does not require a prescription.
Is Cerazette on the NHS?
Yes, Cerazette is available on the NHS, but you will need to visit your GP or a sexual health clinic to find out if it is suitable for you and available in your area. You may be given a generic desogestrel alternative rather than the branded Cerazette.
Can I Buy Cerazette Online?
Yes, Cerazette is available to buy online from trusted online pharmacies, such as Prescription Doctor. You will need to complete a short online consultation so that our clinician can check that it is a safe and suitable contraceptive pill for you.
If our clinician prescribes Cerazette to you, we will send your medication via our next-day delivery service in discreet packaging if your order is approved before 3 pm on Monday to Friday. All medications are licensed in the UK and dispensed by our General Pharmaceutical Council-registered pharmacy.
Are There Any Cerazette Alternatives?
Additional Resources
Sources
Cochrane Library (2016): Progestin‐only contraceptives: effects on weight.
EMC (2025): Cerazette 75 microgram film-coated tablet.
EMC (2025): Patient Information Leaflet.
NHS (2024). How well contraception works at preventing pregnancy.
CoSRH (2023): FSRH Clinical Guideline: Progestogen-only Pills (August 2022, amended July 2023).
NHS (2024). What to do if you're sick or have diarrhoea when taking the progestogen-only pill.
Treatment information
Product Name: Cerazette
Active Ingredient(s): Desogestrel
Manufacturer: Organon Pharma (UK) Limited
Administration: Oral
Presentation: Tablets
Available Strength: 75 mcg
Exemption: Prescription Only
Application: Women over 18
Dosage: One pill to be taken every day without breaks. Each strip contains 28 pills.
Description: Cerazette is a contraceptive which contains a progestogen called desogestrel.
Alcohol consumption: No influence
When Breastfeeding: Yes. Speak to your doctor for further advice.
Price: 18.95 GBP
Click here to view the Cerazette Desogestrel 75mcg Mini-Pill - Patient Information Leaflet
Authored By
Leanne Edermaniger
Medical Content Writer
Leanne is a science and health content writer focusing on human health and biology while utilising her solid academic background.
Published on: 18/01/2017 Re-Published on: 01/05/2026
Published on: 18/01/2017 Re-Published on: 01/05/2026
Reviewed By
Mohamed Imran Lakhi
MPharm - Lead Pharmacist
Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.
Reviewed on: 01/05/2026
Reviewed on: 01/05/2026
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