Low-Ogestrel & Mood Swings: Understanding the Connection

Low-Ogestrel is the brand name for a birth control pill that contains the generic compound ethinyl estradiol in combination with norgestrel. Ogestrel is basically a synthetic combination of female hormones, which perform the function of blocking the release of an egg from the ovary. Thus, this drug acts by preventing the process of fertilization.

Treatment Options

• Hormones and mood swings are linked in women. Some women, especially those going through menopause or with an estrogen imbalance, are prescribed a hormonal or synthetic estrogen supplement to help manage mood swings. Since, Low-Ogestrel contains synthetic estrogen, some women might consider trying Low-Ogestrel as a treatment option for mood swings. However, Low-Ogestrel may not be an effective mood swing therapy, and may in fact make the condition worse.

Does It Work?

• The use of Low-Ogestrel for mood swings may be a poor choice because, according to Drugs.com, mood swings are one of the side effects of Low-Ogestrel. In fact, Drugs.com cautions that Low-Ogestrel should be avoided in people with any symptoms of depression, including mood swings. RateaDrug.com suggests that approximately 50 percent of patients who took Low-Ogestrel experienced mood swings ranging form mild to severe as a result of taking the drug. The chances of developing mood swings as a result of taking Low-Ogestrel may increase for women over 35.

Alternatives

• Low-Ogestrel has other uses for which it is better designed. It is used to treat acne, regulate menstrual flow and correct hormone-related problems in some women. If you are taking Low-Ogestrel for one or more of these conditions, you may actually notice yourself developing mood swings and, if so, you should speak with your doctor. Health.reorbit.com recommends Vitamin B tablets, multivitamins, Vitamin C and cranberry to minimize the risk of mood swings associated with Low-Ogestrel.