Desogestrel (DSG)

Desogestrel is a molecule used in hormonal contraceptives. Most combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs, or simply OCs) on the market today contain both an estrogen compound (ethinyl estradiol is common) plus a progestin (a progesterone-like compound) such as desogestrel. Desogestrel-containing birth control pills are sometimes referred to as "third generation" oral contraceptives. In contrast, birth control pills that are considered "second generation" (Tri-Levlen, for example) contain an estrogen and a progestin, but the progestin is different, such as levonorgestrel. Third-generation oral contraceptives are suitable for use in patients with diabetes or lipid disorders because they have minimal impact on blood glucose levels and the lipid profile. Their synthetic estrogen dosage is lower than second-generation oral contraceptives, reducing the likelihood of weight gain, breast tenderness and migraine.