Can't find Junel 1/20 21 Day? Here are real alternatives with the same ingredients or similar options your doctor can prescribe instead.
If your pharmacy can't fill your Junel 1/20 21 Day prescription, don't panic. There are several alternatives available — some with the exact same ingredients, and others that are very similar. The key is knowing what to ask for and working with your pharmacist or doctor to make a smooth switch.
In this guide, we'll explain what Junel 1/20 21 Day is, how it works, and walk you through the best alternative medications available in 2026.
Junel 1/20 21 Day is a combined oral contraceptive (COC) — a birth control pill that contains two hormones:
It comes in a 21-day pack, meaning you take one active pill every day for 21 days and then take no pills for 7 days. It's manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals and is a generic version of Loestrin 21 1/20.
Junel 1/20 is considered a "low-dose" pill because it contains only 20 mcg of estrogen — lower than many other combined pills that contain 30 or 35 mcg. This lower dose often means fewer estrogen-related side effects while still providing effective pregnancy prevention.
For more details, see What Is Junel 1/20 21 Day?
Junel 1/20 works through three main mechanisms:
For a more detailed explanation, read How Does Junel 1/20 21 Day Work?
These medications are therapeutically equivalent to Junel 1/20. They contain the same active ingredients at the same doses. In most cases, your pharmacist can substitute one of these without needing a new prescription from your doctor.
Microgestin 1/20 is one of the most widely available alternatives. It contains the same Norethindrone Acetate 1 mg and Ethinyl Estradiol 20 mcg as Junel 1/20. It's manufactured by Mayne Pharma and is available in both 21-day and 28-day (Fe) versions. Many patients who switch from Junel to Microgestin notice no difference in how the medication works or feels.
Larin 1/20 is another generic equivalent with the same formulation. Manufactured by Novast Laboratories, it's available in both 21-day and Fe (28-day) packs. Larin is widely stocked at chain pharmacies and is often one of the more affordable options with discount coupons.
Aurovela 1/20 is manufactured by Aurobindo Pharma and offers the same hormonal combination. It's available in both 21-day and Fe (28-day) versions. Aurovela has become increasingly common at pharmacies across the country and is well-covered by most insurance plans.
Gildess 1/20, made by Qualitest (now Endo Pharmaceuticals), is yet another equivalent option. Like the others, it contains Norethindrone Acetate 1 mg and Ethinyl Estradiol 20 mcg. It's available in both 21-day and Fe formulations.
You may also see these names at the pharmacy — they all contain the same ingredients:
If none of the exact equivalents are available, your doctor may suggest a slightly different pill. These alternatives are in the same drug class but may have minor differences in hormone type, dose, or regimen:
Lo Loestrin Fe contains an even lower dose of estrogen (10 mcg of Ethinyl Estradiol) combined with Norethindrone Acetate 1 mg. It uses a 24/2/2 regimen (24 active pills, 2 estrogen-only pills, and 2 placebo pills). It may be a good option if you're sensitive to estrogen. However, Lo Loestrin Fe is a brand-name product and can be significantly more expensive without insurance.
If your doctor wants to keep you on a low-dose estrogen pill, other 20 mcg ethinyl estradiol options include:
Keep in mind that switching to a pill with a different progestin may cause different side effects. Always discuss changes with your healthcare provider.
If you're switching from Junel 1/20 to an equivalent generic (same ingredients), the transition is usually seamless — just start the new pack when you would have started your next Junel pack.
If you're switching to a pill with different hormones, your doctor will give you specific instructions. In most cases, you can start the new pill:
You may need to use backup contraception (like condoms) for the first 7 days on a new pill, depending on when you make the switch. Your prescriber can advise you on the safest approach.
Use Medfinder to search for any of these alternatives by name and check availability near you. You can also read our guide on how to find Junel 1/20 21 Day in stock for additional pharmacy search strategies.
If cost is a concern when switching, check out our savings guide: How to Save Money on Junel 1/20 21 Day.
Not being able to find Junel 1/20 21 Day is frustrating, but it doesn't mean you have to go without birth control. Multiple generic equivalents with the exact same ingredients are widely available, and your pharmacist may be able to make the switch on the spot. If you need a different option, your doctor has plenty of similar pills to choose from.
The most important thing is to act quickly — don't let a stock issue create a gap in your contraceptive coverage. Use Medfinder to search for alternatives, and reach out to your prescriber if you need help making a switch.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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