Question

How much ethinyl estradiol does the new low dose oral contraceptive pill contain? (in micrograms)

• A. 20
• B. 25
• C. 30
• D. 35

Hint:

Newest low dose OCPs use the smallest effective ethinyl estradiol dose.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks about the dose of ethinyl estradiol present in the newer, low dose combined oral contraceptive pills, measured in micrograms.

Step 2: Key Concept:
Combined oral contraceptive pills have gone through several generations. The earliest pills contained 50 micrograms or more of ethinyl estradiol, which caused more side effects such as thromboembolism. Over time, the dose was reduced step by step to lower these risks while still preventing pregnancy.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The newest low dose formulations bring the ethinyl estradiol content down to 20 micrograms per tablet, which is the lowest effective dose used in routine practice. This is lower than the earlier low dose pills that had 30 to 35 micrograms.
Options with 25, 30, and 35 micrograms represent earlier generation low dose pills, not the newest formulation referred to in the question.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The newest low dose oral contraceptive pill contains 20 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol.
\[ \boxed{20\ \mu g} \]