Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.
Check symptoms

Norethindrone (progestin-only pill)

Brand names: Camila, Errin, Heather, Opill (over the counter, norgestrel)

Progestin-only pills ('mini-pills') prevent pregnancy without estrogen. They're an option during breastfeeding and for people who can't take estrogen.

Brand namesCamila, Errin, Heather, Opill (over the counter, norgestrel)
Type of medicineProgestin-only birth control
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Norethindrone pills must be taken within the same 3-hour window every day. Opill is a similar over-the-counter pill.

What it's used for

  • Preventing pregnancy

How to take it

  • Take one pill every day at the same time, with no break between packs.
  • Use backup (like condoms) for 48 hours if you take one more than 3 hours late.

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

  • Irregular bleeding or spotting
  • Headache
  • Breast tenderness
Call 911Severe lower belly pain (possible ectopic pregnancy)
Call your provider todayVery heavy bleeding
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes

Warnings

  • It doesn't protect against STIs.
  • Not for people with breast cancer.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Rifampin, some seizure medicines, St. John's wort, and some HIV medicines make it less effective.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Stop if pregnant. Fine while breastfeeding.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

If you're more than 3 hours late, take it as soon as you remember, keep going, and use backup birth control for the next 48 hours. Consider emergency contraception if you had sex recently.

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

Last updated 2026-11-13.