Third generation OC pills are -: (A) Decreased risk of thromboembolism, (B) Decreased risk of myocardial infarction, (C) Increased risk of breakthrough bleeding, (D) More side effects
Answer is B. Ans. is 'b' i.e., Decreased risk of myocardial infarction o Third generation oral contraceptives contain the new progestins: gestodone, desogestrol and norgestimate; combined with low dose of estrogen (< 35 g of ethinyl estrodiol). o These contraceptives have lower doses of progesterone-like compounds with similar protection against pregnancy, o They have been shown to have fewer side effects such as weight gain, fluid retention, headache, and hirsutism; seen commonly with 2nd generation OCPs. These side effects are due to andrgenic action of progestins in 2nd generation OCPs. 3rd generation OCPs have progestins with less androgenic action, o These contraceptives have decreased association with MI and stroke. o A better HDL profile is noted with 3rd generation OCPs in comparison to 2nd generation OCPs. o But they increase the risk of DVT and venous thromboembolism, o Risk of breakthrough bleeding is the same as with 2nd generation OCPs.