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Cilest

Buy Cilique after completing our online consultation for contraception

Prices of Cilique (Cilest alternative)
250mcg/35mcg
6 months (6x21 pills) (£26.99)

Prices include next-day delivery and prescription

3 months (3x21 pills) £15.99
6 months (6x21 pills) £26.99 Save £5

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More information about Cilest

What is Cilest?

Cilest is a highly effective oral contraceptive pill that is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy . Cilique is the generic version of Cilest and both of these combined contraceptives provide you with immediate protection when taken on the first day of your period, which makes it one of the most convenient methods of contraception available. It may also help alleviate pain and discomfort for women who often have heavy and painful periods.

Chemical formula of ethinylestradiol

What additional benefits does Cilest have?

Cilest allows you to enjoy sex with your partner without either of you having to worry about taking additional measures to prevent pregnancy (although it is recommended to also use a barrier contraceptive to prevent the risk of sexually transmitted infections). Apart from its primary benefit, it provides other additional benefits such as:

  • It provides you with instant protection and control when taken on the first day of your period
  • Taking this oral contraceptive can also help to regulate your periods

How does Cilest work?

Cilique is equivalent to Cilest and works in the exact same way. Cilest pills contain two active ingredients, norgestimate and ethinylestradiol, these are two synthetic versions of the naturally occurring oestrogen and progesterone hormones in the body. These work together to 'convince' the body that ovulation has already taken place, due to this, no egg is released for fertilisation. Other modes of action this combined contraceptive uses to ensure a high level of protection includes:

  • Changes in the cervical mucous, which makes it difficult for sperm to enter the womb.
  • Preventing the lining in the womb from thickening so that an egg cannot attach itself and grow.
Without oral contraceptives With oral contraceptives Released egg Fallopian tube Ovary Endometrium
(uterus lining)
Cervix UTERUS VAGINA Oestrogen and progestogen can prevent an egg from being released from the ovaries each month most of the time. Progestogen causes thinning of the endometrium (uterus lining) so, if an egg is released, it cannot implant on the wall. Lastly, progestogen also thickens the mucus in the cervix so sperm is prevented from reaching the egg.

How do I take Cilest?

For immediate protection, you should start taking your first Cilest pill on the very first day of your period. You can find out more details about using this combined contraceptive in the attached patient information leaflet or by consulting with your doctor.

  • Cilest pills are taken for 21 continual days.
  • They should be taken at around the same time every day to be fully effective.
  • This is followed by a seven-day rest period.
  • You may experience withdrawal bleeding similar to that of your regular period during this time, which is perfectly natural.
  • Even though you are not taking your contraceptive during these seven days, you will still be protected.
viagra If not taken on the first day of your period, use condoms for the following seven days. Take each pill around the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. Many women set an alarm to remember their next dose. Each Cilest pill can be easily swallowed with or without drink and food. Store away from direct sunlight and under the temperature of 25°C. Double check the expiry date and patient leaflet regarding use and missed pill if unsure.

What should I do about a missed Cilest pill?

If you happen to forget to take your pill, or more than one pill, in one blister pack at the usual time, follow the below protocol:

  • If you have missed one Cilest pill, then take it as soon as possible unless it is close to the time of your next pill. If it is nearer to the next pill than the previous time, miss it out completely and continue with the blister pack as normal. Missing one pill in one blister pack will not affect the effectiveness and you will not need further barrier protection.
  • If you miss two or more pills in one blister pack, then you will not be protected at maximum effect. However, take the last missed pill as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time of your next pill. Do not take two pills in close proximity - this will not combat the mistake - and skip the missed pills. It is advised to use condoms or refrain from sex for the next seven-nine days.

Use our interactive tool below on what to do if you miss one or multiple pills in one month (menstrual cycle). Simply click to begin.

How many pills have you missed? How late?
  • One pill less than
    12 hours late
  • Started a new pill pack less than 12 hours late
  • One pill more than
    12 hours late
  • Started a new pill pack more than 12 hours late
  • Two or more pills in one pack
  • One menstrual cycle = 28 days

*Vomiting and diarrhoea experienced within four hours of taking the pill is also classed as a missed pill.

*There are more than seven pills left in the pack. Continue to finish the pack, overlapping the seven-day break. Take your seven-day break and start your new pack as usual.

*There are fewer than seven pills left in the pack. Continue to finish the pack, overlapping the seven-day break. Start the new pack immediately after the old one is finished (missing out the seven-day break completely).

*If you have missed contraceptive pills in the first one to nine days of the pill pack and have had sex without barrier contraception, you could be pregnant. If you have calculated this between one to five days after the unprotected sex, you could use emergency contraception such as the IUD or morning-after pill. If not, continue your contraception until the seven-day break. If you don't have any bleeding, it is advised to take a pregnancy test and/or consult your doctor.

For more information about what to do if you've missed your dosage for a significant period, it's always best to speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

What dosage is Cilest?

Cilest comes in just one dosage suitable for most women looking to prevent unwanted pregnancy, or for any other additional benefits linked with combined contraception.

The two active ingredients are norgestimate (progesterone) and ethinylestradiol (oestrogen). The quantity is 0.25mg and 35mcg respectively.

What side effects are associated with Cilest?

As it is a prescription treatment, there is a small chance of developing certain side effects when using Cilest, these side effects will be the same when using the generic version Cilique. Side effects usually tend to be very mild and will pass completely if you stop using the treatment. The most common effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Stomach cramps
  • Changes in menstrual cycle

Less common side effects include:

  • Breast growth or tenderness
  • Fluid retention
  • Mood swings
  • Constipation
  • Migraines
  • Thrush

Some women also report weight gain when taking Cilest although this is also unlikely. If you do find that you experience side effects, you might be advised to use a different contraceptive pill, with a different dosage of norgestimate and ethinylestradiol. You should mention any side effects you have experienced previously while taking the pill during your consultation, to help our doctor recommend a daily contraceptive that may be more suitable for you.

What Cilest precautions/interactions should I be aware of?

Cilest can be ordered online by women above the age of 18, who are seeking a daily contraception solution, and who aren't already pregnant or breastfeeding. You would not be advised to take this birth control pill if you have had problems with your circulation, heart, liver or problems with hypertension. Make sure to mention any past or present health conditions or medications you are taking in your consultation.

If you would like more information about the side effects, precautions or interactions associated with Cilest, please be sure to read the helpful patient leaflet, which is available for download towards the bottom of this page.

Can I buy Cilest online?

You can order Cilest 3 or 6 month blister pill packs here after you complete a free online consultation with HealthExpress. This is completely confidential, and provides our doctors with enough information to help them assess whether this treatment is the most suitable for you to use. Once your consultation is approved, your medication will be readied and prepared for dispatch and express overnight delivery.

If you have any queries, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly Customer Service team.

Cilest info
Product nameCilest
Active ingredient(s)Ethinylestradiol and Norgestimate
ManufacturerJanssen-Cilag
Lowest price£32.99
Trustpilot rating4.9/5
Trustpilot reviews49
AvailabilityOut of stock
DescriptionCilest is a popular combined contraceptive pill that offers almost complete protection against pregnancy
ExemptionSubject to medical prescription
AdministrationOral
PresentationTablets
Available dosage(s)0.25mg, 35mcg
ApplicationOffering protection against pregnancy for women over 18
UsageTake 1 tablet per day for 21 days followed by a 7 day break
Drug classCombined pill (POM)
Alcohol consumptionNo influence
When breastfeedingCan possibly be prescribed, ask your doctor
When pregnantNot recommended, ask your doctor for alternatives

Note: Decisions about treatment are for both the prescriber and the person to jointly consider during the consultation. However, the final decision will always be the prescriber’s.

Cilest FAQs

What are Cilest tablets used for?

Cilest is a contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy.

What type of pill is Cilest?

Cilest is a combined contraceptive pill and contains two synthetic hormones: norgestimate (progesterone) and ethinylestradiol (oestrogen). It is a monophasic pill, meaning each pill contains the same amount of hormones.

Is Cilest being discontinued?

Yes, Cilest was discontinued in 2019. However, this was a commercial decision and was not due to any efficacy or safety issues.

Is Cilest the same as Cilique?

Yes, both brands contain the exact same active ingredients. Therefore, as Cilest has since been discontinued, we offer Cilique as an identical alternative that works in the exact same way.

Can you get pregnant on Cilest pill?

When taken correctly, Cilest is 99% effective and there is therefore a very low risk of contraception whilst using it.

How long does Cilest take to work?

Cilest is effective immediately if taken within the first 5 days of your cycle. Any other time, it may take up to a week until it is effective and you should use barrier contraception for that time.

Does Cilest cause weight gain?

Yes, Cilest can cause weight gain or bloating in some women. If you're worried about side effects of 'the pill', please consult your doctor before taking it.

Does Cilest pill help with acne?

There is no definitive answer to this question as everyone's skin reacts differently to different medications. However, some users have reported that Cilest has helped to improve their acne. If you are concerned about your acne, it is best to speak to a dermatologist or doctor who can offer tailored advice.

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Cilest reviews
Pack of Cilest ethinylestradiol/norgestimate oral contraceptive 63 tablets Excellent 4.9 49 patients have reviewed Cilest on Trustpilot
12 Aug

It's perfect for me

Rachel E
05 Jun

Have used the product for a few years and had no issues

H P
16 Feb

It works for me

Rachel E
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Further reading

What are the benefits of taking contraception?

What are the benefits of taking contraception?

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Abbot
Types of contraception

Types of contraception

Reviewed by Dr. Caroline Fontana
Your guide to hormonal contraception

Your guide to hormonal contraception

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Abbot
Natural birth control: how does it work?

Natural birth control: how does it work?

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Abbot
What you should know about permanent contraception

What you should know about permanent contraception

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Abbot
IUD vs IUS comparison

The IUD and IUS Contraceptive Guide

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Abbot
Your guide to barrier methods of contraception

Your guide to barrier methods of contraception

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Abbot
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