Ethinyl Estradiol/Norgestimate

**Semantic type:** Organic Chemical|Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** An oral preparation combination containing the semisynthetic estrogen ethinyl estradiol and the synthetic progestagen norgestimate with contraceptive activity. Ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate act by negative feed back mechanism at pituitary gland suppressing the release of gonadotropin hormones follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). This combination inhibits ovulation and promotes the thickening of the cervical mucus and the endometrium. The combination of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate may also be used in the treatment of acne.

**Synonyms:** - Oral Contraceptive, Combination - Ortho Cyclen - Orthotricyclen - Previfem - Sprintec