Zelleta

Price range: £8.99 through £24.99

Zelleta is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill containing desogestrel, offering effective pregnancy prevention without oestrogen.
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Clear Start Assessment

How It Works

Zelleta is a progestogen-only pill containing desogestrel 75 micrograms. Unlike traditional mini pills, which mainly work by thickening cervical mucus, Zelleta also reliably inhibits ovulation. This dual mechanism makes it one of the most effective progestogen-only contraceptive pills available.
The suppression of ovulation means there is no egg available for fertilisation, while the thickened cervical mucus makes it harder for sperm to pass through the cervix and reach the womb. Together, these mechanisms ensure consistent and effective pregnancy prevention when taken daily.

Why Choose Zelleta 75 microgram Tablets

Zelleta is ideal for women who cannot or prefer not to take oestrogen-based contraception. It is particularly suitable for women who are breastfeeding, smokers over 35, or those with oestrogen-related side effects. Other benefits include:
Reliable contraceptive protection

No oestrogen-related risks

Safe during breastfeeding

Fewer hormonal fluctuations than combined pills

Continuous use with no break required between packs

Zelleta offers simplicity and discretion. It is taken once a day, at the same time each day, with no pill-free interval. This consistency helps reduce hormonal variation and may lead to lighter, less painful periods — or periods may stop entirely over time.

Important Note

It is essential to take Zelleta at the same time every day. If taken more than 12 hours late, contraceptive protection may be reduced. In such cases, a barrier method should be used for the following 7 days. Irregular bleeding, spotting, or missed periods are common when starting Zelleta but usually settle after a few months. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

Directions

Note: Always follow your doctor’s advice and the instructions provided.

How to Take:

  • Take one tablet at the same time every day

  • Swallow whole with water

  • Do not skip or delay doses

  • No break between packs

Storage:
Store below 25°C
Keep out of reach of children
Do not use after the expiry date on the box

Ingredients

Active Ingredient:
Desogestrel 75 micrograms

Other Ingredients:
Lactose monohydrate, maize starch, povidone, silica colloidal anhydrous, stearic acid, tocopherol

Side Effects

  • Common side effects:

    • Headache

    • Acne

    • Breast tenderness

    • Mood changes

    • Irregular bleeding

    Uncommon side effects:

    • Hair loss

    • Nausea

    • Weight changes

    • Ovarian cysts

    Serious side effects (rare):

    • Blood clots

    • Severe allergic reaction

    • Breast cancer (very rare)

    Seek medical attention if you experience swelling, chest pain, or severe headaches.

Warnings

Contraindications:
Do not use Zelleta if you have:

  • Active thrombosis

  • Severe liver disease

  • Hormone-sensitive cancers

  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding

  • Known allergy to desogestrel or any other ingredient

Pregnancy/Breastfeeding:
Do not take Zelleta if pregnant. Safe for use while breastfeeding under medical advice.

Drug Interactions:
Certain medications (e.g. anti-epileptics, antibiotics, antivirals) may reduce effectiveness. Always inform your prescriber of other treatments.

Age Restrictions:
Not suitable for individuals under 18 unless prescribed.

  • Yes, Zelleta is suitable for women who are breastfeeding, as it does not affect milk supply.
  • No, Zelleta does not offer protection from sexually transmitted infections. Barrier contraception is required for that purpose.
  • Zelleta works by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
  • Zelleta is a progestogen-only contraceptive pill (POP) used to prevent pregnancy in women of reproductive age.
  • If less than 12 hours late, take the missed pill and continue as normal. If more than 12 hours late, take the missed pill and use additional contraception for the next 7 days.