Problem with the Generic or Just the Drug Itself? (Junel Fe vs. Microgestin Fe) - Birth Control Message Board

Krazy4K9s · 11-24-2009, 01:30 PM

I started taking Junel Fe 1/20 about two months ago. It seemed to be working very well. I had no spotting, my face cleared up better than it's done in decades (I'm 38), and I felt fine. During my period week, I switched to a cheaper pharmacy which turned out to use Microgestin instead. I thought that would be no big deal, but I've had all sorts of problems on the Microgestin. First of all, my oil glands have gone crazy. My whole life I've always washed my hair every other day. While on Microgestin, I am having to wash it every day because it is so oily. I also have had the worst breakouts I've ever had! I have felt very bloated and have also had a good bit of spotting (as well as a strong odor).

Does anyone here think that if I go back to Junel, I'll have the same effects I had while on Junel the first time? Or is my second month (while I am on Microgestin) just a result of being on that particular progestin (norethindrone acetate) for the second month (regardless of the name brand)? In other words, if I'd been on Junel Fe for the second month, I'd had the same effects that I had while on the Microgestin.

I know I've read that you should give a new pill three months for your body to get used to it. Like I said, I don't know if there is such a big difference (at least for me) in Junel and Microgestin or if my body during the second month is letting me know that norethindrone acetate is not the drug for me. Any suggestions?

wanderer21 · 11-05-2010, 07:22 AM

Hi, I recently switched from the Junel fe 1/20 to microgestin fe 1/20 and have also been having some problems. and, like you, i was fine on the junel. but i took junel my first two months of being on birth control and switched my third month...i called my doctor about it and he said to wait out the three months and see how i end up. which is of no help at all really. but, i just wanted to let you know that you arent the only one who has had problems switching between these two. and that i was fine on the junel during both my first and second months, so i dont think this wouldve happened to you if you had still been on the junel your second month. but everyone reacts differently so you can never be sure! hope this helped