ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It may expose you to more estrogen than many pills.
What it's used for
- Preventing pregnancy
How to take it
- Apply a new patch the same day each week for 3 weeks, then go patch-free for 1 week.
- Use clean, dry skin on the buttocks, belly, back, or upper arm (not breasts).
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Skin irritation
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Nausea
Call 911Chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke
Call your provider todayPain or swelling in one leg
Warnings
- Boxed warning: higher clot risk; not for women over 35 who smoke.
- Less effective at higher body weights (some products).
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Rifampin, some seizure medicines, and St. John's wort make it less effective.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Stop if pregnant.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
If a patch falls off or you're late changing it, follow your insert and use backup birth control as directed.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Contraceptive patch (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.