What to Do When You Can't Find Slynd

If your pharmacy is out of Slynd and you need birth control now, you're probably wondering: what are my options? The ongoing Slynd shortage has left many patients looking for alternatives — and the good news is that several exist.

This guide covers the best alternatives to Slynd, how they compare, and what to discuss with your doctor. Important: Never switch medications without talking to your healthcare provider first.

Why Slynd Is Unique

Before we look at alternatives, it helps to understand what makes Slynd different from other birth control pills:

• Progestin-only: Slynd contains only Drospirenone (no estrogen), making it safe for people who can't take estrogen.
• 24-hour missed-pill window: Unlike older progestin-only pills (which only allow 3 hours), Slynd gives you a full 24-hour window if you miss a dose.
• Anti-androgenic properties: Drospirenone can help with acne and bloating, similar to Yaz or Yasmin.
• Reliable ovulation suppression: Slynd consistently prevents ovulation, unlike older mini-pills that work mainly by thickening cervical mucus.

Best Alternatives to Slynd

1. Norethindrone 0.35 mg (Camila, Errin, Heather, Nora-BE)

Type: Progestin-only pill (mini-pill)
How it compares: This is the most commonly prescribed progestin-only pill. It's widely available, inexpensive (often under $20/month with insurance), and comes in many generic versions.

Key difference: Norethindrone only has a 3-hour missed-pill window, so timing is critical. It primarily works by thickening cervical mucus rather than suppressing ovulation, so it may be slightly less effective than Slynd for some patients.

Best for: Patients who need an affordable, readily available progestin-only option and can take their pill at the same time every day.

2. Opill (Norgestrel 0.075 mg)

Type: Over-the-counter progestin-only pill
How it compares: Opill made history as the first FDA-approved OTC birth control pill. You can buy it without a prescription at most pharmacies and retailers.

Key difference: Like Norethindrone, Opill has a 3-hour missed-pill window. It does not suppress ovulation as reliably as Slynd. However, the convenience of no prescription requirement is a major advantage.

Best for: Patients who need immediate access to birth control without waiting for a prescription or doctor's visit.

3. Nexplanon (Etonogestrel Implant)

Type: Progestin-only subdermal implant
How it compares: Nexplanon is a small rod placed under the skin of your upper arm. It lasts up to 3 years and is one of the most effective forms of birth control available (over 99% effective).

Key difference: This is a long-acting method — no daily pills to remember. It requires an office visit for insertion and removal. Some patients experience irregular bleeding, especially in the first year.

Best for: Patients who want long-term, low-maintenance, estrogen-free contraception.

4. Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Liletta, Kyleena, Skyla)

Type: Progestin-only intrauterine device
How it compares: Hormonal IUDs release levonorgestrel directly into the uterus. They last 3-8 years depending on the brand and are over 99% effective.

Key difference: IUDs require insertion by a healthcare provider. Many patients experience lighter periods or no periods at all. They're not affected by supply chain issues the way oral pills are.

Best for: Patients who want highly effective, long-term contraception and don't mind a medical procedure for insertion.

5. Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Injection)

Type: Progestin-only injectable
How it compares: A shot given every 3 months at your doctor's office or clinic. No daily pills needed.

Key difference: Side effects can include weight gain and irregular bleeding. It can take several months for fertility to return after stopping. Not ideal for patients planning pregnancy in the near future.

Best for: Patients who prefer a quarterly option and don't mind injections.

Quick Comparison Table

Here's how these alternatives stack up against Slynd:

• Slynd: Pill, 24-hr window, suppresses ovulation, anti-androgenic, ~$150-250/month
• Norethindrone: Pill, 3-hr window, thickens mucus, ~$10-30/month
• Opill: OTC pill, 3-hr window, thickens mucus, ~$20-50/month
• Nexplanon: Implant, lasts 3 years, suppresses ovulation, office visit needed
• Mirena/Liletta: IUD, lasts 5-8 years, local progestin, office visit needed
• Depo-Provera: Shot every 3 months, suppresses ovulation, office visit needed

What to Talk About With Your Doctor

When discussing alternatives to Slynd, ask your provider about:

• Whether you need to avoid estrogen (and why Slynd was chosen in the first place)
• How important the 24-hour missed-pill window is for your lifestyle
• Whether a long-acting method like an IUD or implant might work better
• Side effect profiles of each option
• Cost and insurance coverage for alternatives

Don't Give Up on Finding Slynd

Switching to an alternative doesn't have to be permanent. If Slynd works best for you, keep trying to find it while using a bridge method. Use MedFinder to check stock, and read our guide on how to find Slynd in stock near you for more strategies.

You can also explore ways to lower the cost in our savings guide for Slynd.

The Bottom Line

While Slynd is unique, there are solid alternatives if you can't fill your prescription right now. From other progestin-only pills to IUDs and implants, you have options to stay protected. Talk to your doctor, explore what's available, and don't go without contraception.