Question

Which of these oral contraceptive drugs have side effects (may cause breast cancer)?
(a)Mercilon
(b)Mala-D
(c)Saheli
(d)Both (a) and (b)

Answer 1

Hint: The main component of oral contraceptive drugs are hormones to prevent ovulation in the body. A higher level of hormones in the body can cause a number of harmful side effects. The alternative pills do not contain the hormone but an estrogen receptor.

Complete step by step answer:
Mercilon is a low-dose contraceptive pill containing estrogen and progesterone hormone. Side effects of this pill include breast tenderness and pain, abdominal pain, headaches, skin rashes, insomnia, and depression.
- Mala-D is a combination contraceptive pill with Levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) and Ethinyloestradiol- (0.03 mg). As this also contains hormones, this also has side effects involving headaches, dizziness, and tenderness of the breasts.
- Studies have linked the role of estrogen in increasing the risk of breast cancer as they increase the breast cancer cell division. Hence, Mercilon and Mala-D may increase the risk of breast cancer in women who consume the pill.

So, the correct answer is ‘Both (a) and (b)’.

Additional information: Saheli is a contraceptive pill that does not contain hormones but ormeloxifene, also known as centchroman, which is a selective estrogen receptor modulator.
- It is a nonsteroidal oral contraceptive to be taken weekly. As it does not contain hormones, it reduces the risk of breast cancer.
- Saheli is provided free of cost by the government in India.

Note:
Ormeloxifene is also used in the treatment of heavy uterine bleeding and breast cancer.
- There are various other forms of female contraception that can be used instead of pills, such as female condoms, intrauterine devices, implants, or surgical methods such as tubectomy.