Aviane vs Lutera: What’s the Difference?

Deciding to go on birth control is a big decision—and deciding which to use can be really overwhelming. What if you end up experiencing annoying side effects, or you simply don’t like the way it makes you feel? 

Luckily, a SimpleHealth consultation is never more than a few clicks away. In the meantime, if you’re considering trying Aviane or Lutera, here’s what to know about how they work, their effectiveness, and more.

How They Work

Aviane and Lutera are both combination birth control pills, using a combination of estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) and progestin (levonorgestrel) to prevent pregnancy and regulate periods. These hormones prevent pregnancy by thickening vaginal fluid to help prevent sperm from reaching an egg and changing the lining of the uterus to prevent attachment of an egg.

Both Aviane and Lutera are low-dose birth control pills, meaning they use a lower dose of estrogen than other birth control pills. This may cause fewer side effects like bloating, weight gain and mood swings, compared to pills with higher doses of estrogen. 

If you’re a smoker and over the age of 35, you should not take Aviane or Lutera. Talk to your doctor about another birth control option that works for you. 

Effectiveness

Aviane and Lutera are 91% effective with typical use and 99% effective with perfect use, which puts them at the same effectiveness rates as other combination birth control pills. 

However, talk to your doctor about any other medications you take before going on Aviane or Lutera. Certain over-the-counter meds and herbal supplements (like St. John’s Wort) can interact with Aviane or Lutera, causing them to be less effective. 

Do Aviane or Lutera reduce acne?

Yes, Aviane and Lutera may reduce hormonal acne. Both birth control pills help stabilize your hormones. If acne is a reason you’re considering birth control, talk to your SimpleHealth doctor and they’ll help find the best brand for you.

Do Aviane or Lutera lead to weight gain?

With some of the lowest estrogen levels of any birth control pills, it’s unlikely that Aviane or Lutera will lead to significant weight gain. During your first month of taking hormonal birth control, weight fluctuation is common. However, this is typically water weight, and it usually goes away within a few weeks.

Dosage

Aviane and Lutera are both daily birth control pills that come in packs of 28 pills. Each pack contains 21 active pills and 7 placebo pills. For both brands, you need to take the pill at the same time each day in order for it to be fully effective. 

For both Aviane and Lutera, take one active pill daily for 21 days. Then, take one placebo pill daily for seven days.

Side effects

Aviane and Lutera generally have mild side effects. Usually, these side effects subside after your first month on the pill. If your side effects persist after three months, talk to your doctor. 

Common side effects of Lutera and Aviane

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
• Weight gain
• Breast tenderness
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Serious side effects of Lutera and Aviane

The serious side effects of Lutera and Aviane are blood clots in the legs, lungs, stroke, and heart attack. There is also a small risk for liver tumors and high blood pressure (although blood pressure usually returns to normal when the pill is stopped). While these serious side effects are incredibly rare, they do require immediate medical attention.

Cost

Aviane and Lutera are both affordable birth control options. Lutera is $20 a month, or a $0 copay with most insurance. Similarly, Aviane is $21 a month or a $0 copay with most insurance.

Equivalent Medications

Birth control brands considered equivalent to Aviane and Lutera include Orsythia, Vienva, Lessina,  Aubra EQ, Levonorgestrel/Ethinyl Estradiol 0.1mg/0.02mg oral tablet, Sronyx, and Falmina. Aviane and Lutera are considered equivalent to each other.