Cerelle 75 mcg Tablets

Price range: £9.99 through £19.99

Cerelle is a progesterone-only mini pill used for contraception, containing desogestrel 75 mcg. Suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen.
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Description

Cerelle is a progesterone-only oral contraceptive pill (commonly known as the mini pill) designed to prevent pregnancy in women. It is especially suitable for those who are unable to take oestrogen-containing contraceptives, such as women who are breastfeeding, over the age of 35, or at higher risk of blood clots. Cerelle provides effective and continuous birth control when taken daily without interruption.

How It Works
Cerelle contains 75 micrograms of desogestrel, a synthetic progestogen. Unlike traditional mini pills, which work primarily by thickening cervical mucus, Cerelle also reliably inhibits ovulation in most users. The thickened mucus forms a barrier that makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, while changes in the uterine lining reduce the likelihood of implantation. Its dual mechanism makes Cerelle more effective than older progestogen-only pills that do not consistently suppress ovulation.

Why Choose Cerelle
Cerelle is a trusted choice for women seeking a hormone-based contraceptive that does not include oestrogen. It offers a lower risk of side effects typically associated with combined pills and is suitable for use during breastfeeding. Taken daily at the same time, this medication maintains steady hormone levels for reliable protection. It is a monophasic pill, meaning each tablet delivers the same dose, which simplifies daily use and helps support long-term adherence.

Important Note
This medication must be taken at the same time every day to ensure contraceptive effectiveness. A delay of more than 12 hours may reduce its protective effect. Unlike combined pills, Cerelle is taken continuously with no pill-free interval. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Women with a history of breast cancer, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding should not take this medication. A full medical evaluation should be carried out before starting this medication.

Directions

Please refer to the medication’s patient information leaflet before starting any new medication.

  • Take one tablet every day at the same time

  • No breaks between packs – take continuously

  • If a tablet is missed by more than 12 hours, contraceptive protection may be reduced

  • Swallow whole with water, with or without food

  • Store below 25°C

  • Keep in original packaging

  • Keep out of reach of children

Ingredients

Active Ingredient:

  • Desogestrel 75 micrograms

Other Ingredients:

  • Lactose monohydrate

  • Povidone

  • Silica colloidal anhydrous

  • Maize starch

  • Magnesium stearate

  • Hypromellose

  • Titanium dioxide

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

  • Irregular menstrual bleeding

  • Headache

  • Acne

  • Mood swings

  • Breast tenderness

Serious (rare) side effects:

  • Blood clots

  • Breast cancer

  • Liver disorders

  • Severe allergic reaction

Stop the medicine and seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Warnings

Do not use Cerelle if you are allergic to desogestrel or other listed ingredients. Not suitable for individuals with active liver disease, current or past breast cancer, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. It does not protect against STIs. Always consult your doctor for suitability before starting.

  • If you start Cerelle on days 1–5 of your period, you're protected immediately. Starting later? Use extra contraception (like condoms) for the first 2 days.
  • Yes, Cerelle is safe to use while breastfeeding. It doesn’t affect milk production or quality.
  • If you're less than 12 hours late, take it as soon as you remember—you're still protected. More than 12 hours late? Take the missed pill, continue as normal, but use extra contraception for 2 days.
  • Yes, your bleeding pattern may change. Periods might become lighter, irregular, or stop altogether—this is common and not harmful.
  • Cerelle suits most women, especially those avoiding oestrogen. However, it's not recommended if you've had breast cancer, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding—always check with a GP first.