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Home > Drug Category > Endometriosis Medication > Visanne and Equivalent

Visanne (Dienogest) Information

Visanne, which contains the active ingredient dienogest, is an oral medication used to treat endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during sex, and sometimes fertility problems. Visanne helps reduce pain, control bleeding, and slow the growth of endometrial tissue. It is intended for long-term use to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Visanne is taken by mouth as a tablet and is meant for continuous daily use without breaks to maintain steady hormone levels.

The mechanism of action of dienogest involves suppressing estrogen-driven endometrial tissue growth. It reduces the activity and size of this tissue, both inside and outside the uterus, thereby lowering inflammation and pain. It also helps calm nerves in the pelvis. It has anti-inflammatory effects, giving lasting relief with fewer side effects than some other hormonal treatments.

Visanne Side Effects

Visanne is generally well tolerated, but common side effects may occur. Common side effects are usually mild and may improve over time. Many patients experience changes in menstrual bleeding, including irregular bleeding, spotting, lighter periods, or complete absence of periods (amenorrhea). Other frequent effects include headache, acne, breast tenderness, mood changes, mild depression, nausea, abdominal discomfort, decreased libido, and slight weight gain. These side effects are usually manageable and do not require stopping treatment.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Severe abdominal pain or unexplained heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe headaches or new or worsening migraines
• Severe or persistent depression, mood swings, or suicidal thoughts
• Signs of blood clots, including sudden leg pain or swelling, chest pain, and shortness of breath
• Signs of liver problems, including yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea
• Vision changes or sudden loss of vision

Visanne Precautions

Do not use Visanne if you are allergic to dienogest or any component of the tablets. Do not use this medicine if you have current or past blood clots, severe liver disease, hormone-dependent cancers, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or severe cardiovascular disease. Tell your doctor about your complete medical history, including depression, migraines, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, osteoporosis risk, or previous blood clots.

Inform your doctor of all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, and supplements. Certain medications, such as enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants, rifampicin, or herbal products containing St. John’s wort, may reduce the effectiveness of Visanne. Hormonal contraceptives should generally not be used at the same time unless your doctor specifically advises it.

Visanne is not a contraceptive. Your doctor will rule out pregnancy before prescribing this drug. Use non-hormonal contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy. Do not use Visanne if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Dienogest passes into breast milk in small amounts, so breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Visanne.

Take Visanne exactly as prescribed, usually one tablet once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food. Tablets should be taken continuously without breaks, even if bleeding occurs. Do not stop taking Visanne without consulting your doctor, as endometriosis symptoms may return. Store the tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light, and keep them out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Visanne?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Visanne.