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Information on Oral Contraceptives at YHP

In response to the price increase being experienced by patients currently prescribed Ortho Tricyclen Lo for oral contraception needs, the clinicians in the OB/GYN Department at YHP suggest two other birth control pills that are similar in many ways to the current medication, but are lower in price. 

Your clinicians are comfortable with offering the options below as alternatives to Ortho Tricyclen Lo; keep in mind that a third option to consider is continuing with Ortho Tricyclen Lo at a higher cost. 

Here is some information to assist you in choosing an OCP that is right for you:

Product Name	Description	Noticeable differences	Current Price for 4 packs*	Increased Price of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for 4 packs*
Lessina	A very low dose estrogen (20 mcg) pill, as is Ortho Tricyclen Lo (25 mcg).  It differs in that it is monophasic, instead of triphasic (the dose of hormones varies for each week); one of the two hormones, the progestin is also different (instead of norgestimate, it has levonorgestrel, an ingredient that has been used for a longer time and in more pills than norgestimate).	In most cases, patients would not notice any difference, although there might be slightly higher chance of breakthrough spotting.	$ 98.31	$ 192.81
Trisprintec	The generic version of Ortho Tricyclen, the “regular” low dose version of your pill.  It has exactly the same hormones as your current pill, in the same triphasic arrangement.  The only difference is a slightly higher dose of the estrogen component (35 mcg instead of 25 mcg).  This is the standard content of the typical “low dose” pill.	Most patients will not notice any difference; some might experience more estrogenic side effects, such as breast tenderness or water retention.	$ 92.22	$ 192.81

*Be sure to consider applicable deductibles and copays when exploring the financial impact of each option.  General questions about annual deductibles and copays or concerns about coverage may be directed to the YHP Member Services Department (203-432-0246).  For specific inquiries about how your deductible and/or copay amounts apply to the cost of this medication, contact the YHP Claims Department (203-432-0250).

Upon reaching a decision, we ask that you let the Pharmacy know of your preference for oral contraception pills (OCPs) via the YHP Pharmacy OCP Prescription Change Form (click here to download the form).  The Pharmacy will send the information to your prescribing clinician for approval.  Once approved, your new prescription will be continued for the same duration as your current one.