What is Maxim?
Maxim is a low dosed combination pill which contains the gestagen dienogest together with the estrogen ethinylestradiol. It is manufactured by Jenapharm (Bayer-Konzern) and is one of the most commonly prescribed contraceptives in Germany.
The Gestagen Dienogest was developed in Germany and combines the properties of different gestagen classes. It has a pronounced effect on the cervical mucosa and antiandrogenic properties, which is why it is also used for the treatment of endometriosis.
Maxim offers a Pearl index of about 0.1-0.9 – which means very high protection.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Dienogest 2 mg, Ethinylestradiol 0,03 mg
Maxim prevents pregnancy by three mechanisms of action:
Inhibition of ovulation: The hormones in Maxim suppress the release of gonadotropins (FSH and LH) from the brain gland. No ovulation takes place without the LH approach to the center of the cycle.
Change of cervical mucus: The mucus in the cervical neck becomes thicker under the influence of hormone. Sperms can get worse into the womb.
Influence of cervical mucosa: Dienogest has a strongly transforming effect on the cervical mucosa. It is built less and is less suitable for a recess.
Special Dienogest: Unlike many other gestagens, Dienogest has no glucocorticoid or mineralocorticoide effect. It therefore does not negatively affect the blood sugar or the water balance. The antiandrogenic action corresponds to about one third of the action of cyproterone acetate.
Who is it suitable for?
Maxim is suitable for women who:
- Find a reliable concept protection
- suffer from light to moderate acne
- Wish a pill with good compatibility profile
- Endometriosis-related complaints have
Suitable for:
- Hormonal skin problems
- Wish for regular, controlled cycle
- Women who have not tolerated other pills
- Endometriosis (also as long-term therapy)
Declare before application:
- Are there risk factors for thromboses?
- You smoking?
- What other medicines are you taking?
- Is there a pregnancy?
Available Dosages
Inactive content:
- Dienogest: 2 mg per tablet
- Ethinylestradiol: 0.03 mg (30 micrograms) per tablet
Pack sizes:
- 1 x 21 Dragees
- 3 x 21 Dragees
- 6 x 21 Dragees
Intake cycus: For 21 days a tablet, followed by 7 tablet-free days. A withdrawal bleeding normally occurs during the pause.
Long cycle option: Maxim can also be taken in the long cycle after medical consultation – several packages without a break in succession.
How to Take
First intake cycle: On the first day of the monthly bleeding start taking. The concept protection then exists immediately. For later start (day 2-5) in the first 7 days additionally use condoms.
Adoption:
- Take about the same time every day
- Suck with some liquid
- Intake may take place at or without meals
7-day break: After 21 tablets follows a 7-day take-off. In this time, bleeding usually takes place. On the 8th day the new pack begins – even if the bleeding continues.
Forgot intake:
- Up to 12 hours too late: Immediately accept, protection remains
- Forgotten over 12 hours: toleration and to prevent 7 days
- For more than one forgotten tablet: note the package leaflet or ask doctor
Death: In case of vomiting or severe diarrhea within 4 hours after taking, the intake may be incomplete. Take another tablet from a reserve.
Contraindications
**Maxim must not be taken at:* *
- Thromboembolic disorders – existing or previous vein thrombosis, lung embolia, heart attack, stroke
- Hohem thrombosis risk – multiple risk factors simultaneously
- Migrine with focal neurological symptoms (Aura)
- Black liver disease – as long as liver levels are not normal
- Certified or suspected breast cancer or other hormone-dependent tumors
- **Unexplained vaginal bleeding * *
- ** pregnant * *
**Preview and medical supervision at:* *
- Smokers over 35 years
- Overweight
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes mellitus
- Increased blood fat levels
- Familiary thrombosis exposure
- Immobility (long travel, after operations)
Note for thrombosis risk: Dienogest-containing pills have a risk of thrombosis that lies between older (Levonorgestrel) and recent gestagens (Drospirenon, Desogestrel).
Possible Side Effects
**Family side effects (1-10%):* *
- Headaches
- chest tension, chest pain
- nausea
- Intermediate bleeding, lubrication bleeding
- Mood changes
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Migraine
- Acne (can initially occur, usually improves)
- Weight gain
- Depressive detunement
- Reduced libido
Selten, but seriously:
- Venous thromboembolia (Beinvenenthrombose, lung embolia)
- Arterial thromboembolia (health attack, stroke)
Sofort to the doctor at:
- Sudden severe calf pain or leg swelling
- Unexplained breathing or breasts
- Suddenly strong headaches, visual or speech disorders
- Deafness in arm or leg
Positive effects: more regular, often lighter bleeding; Improving acne and oily skin after taking a few months.
Interactions
Reduction of contraception by:
- Antiepileptic (Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Carbamazepine, Primidon)
- Rifampicin and Rifabutin
- HIV protease inhibitors (Ritonavir, Nelfinavir)
- Johanniskraut (plant antidepressant)
- Griseofulvin (Antimycotic)
No relevant influence:
- Standard antibiotics such as amoxicillin or aziithromycin
- Short-term painkiller intake
**Maxim can affect the effect of:* *
- Lamotrigin (mirror can sink)
- Ciclosporin (mirror can rise)
- Theophylline
Recommendation: When taking interacting medications, additional prevention (condoms) during intake and up to 28 days thereafter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Maxim right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.




