What Is Tri-Sprintec 28 Day? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Tri-Sprintec 28 Day is one of the most commonly prescribed oral contraceptives in the United States. A generic combination birth control pill containing norgestimate (a progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (a synthetic estrogen), it belongs to a class of medications called triphasic combination oral contraceptives. Here's a complete guide to what it is, how it works, and how to use it correctly.

What Is Tri-Sprintec 28 Day?

Tri-Sprintec 28 Day is a combination oral contraceptive tablet containing two synthetic hormones: norgestimate (a third-generation progestin) and ethinyl estradiol (a synthetic estrogen). It is a generic equivalent of Ortho Tri-Cyclen, which was discontinued by Janssen Pharmaceuticals after multiple generics entered the market.

The "28 Day" in its name refers to the pack format: 28 tablets taken over a full calendar month. The "Tri" prefix denotes the triphasic design — three distinct hormone doses in the first 21 days — distinguishing it from monophasic pills that maintain constant hormone levels throughout the cycle.

What Is Tri-Sprintec 28 Day Approved to Treat?

Tri-Sprintec 28 Day has two FDA-approved indications:

Contraception — Tri-Sprintec is indicated for use by females of reproductive potential to prevent pregnancy. With perfect use, it has a failure rate of approximately 1% per year (1 pregnancy per 100 women-years). With typical use, the failure rate is approximately 5% per year.

Moderate acne vulgaris — For females at least 15 years old who have achieved menarche and already desire oral contraception, Tri-Sprintec is approved to treat moderate acne. In clinical trials, patients saw a 42% reduction in total lesion count over 6 months, compared to 27% reduction for placebo.

Beyond its FDA indications, combination oral contraceptives like Tri-Sprintec have been shown to provide additional benefits including more regular periods, reduced menstrual blood loss, decreased painful periods (dysmenorrhea), and reduced risk of ovarian cysts.

What's In Each Tri-Sprintec 28 Day Pack?

Each 28-day blister pack of Tri-Sprintec contains:

7 gray tablets (Days 1–7): 0.18 mg norgestimate + 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol

7 light blue tablets (Days 8–14): 0.215 mg norgestimate + 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol

7 blue tablets (Days 15–21): 0.25 mg norgestimate + 0.035 mg ethinyl estradiol

7 white tablets (Days 22–28): Inert (placebo) tablets containing no active hormones

How Do I Take Tri-Sprintec 28 Day?

Take one tablet by mouth at the same time every day, in the order indicated on the blister pack (gray → light blue → blue → white). With or without food. Starting options:

Day 1 start: Start on the first day of your period. You're protected immediately.

Sunday start: Start on the first Sunday after your period begins. Use backup contraception (condoms + spermicide) for the first 7 days.

During the 7 white placebo days, your withdrawal bleed (period) typically occurs. Start a new pack the day after finishing all 28 tablets.

What Happens If I Miss a Pill?

Missing active (hormone) pills can reduce contraceptive protection. If you miss one active pill: take it as soon as you remember and take the next pill at its regular time (you may take two pills in one day). If you miss two or more active pills: take the most recently missed pill and use backup contraception for the next 7 days. Always consult the patient labeling included in your pack or contact your healthcare provider if you're unsure.

Is Tri-Sprintec 28 Day a Controlled Substance?

No. Tri-Sprintec 28 Day is not a controlled substance and is not subject to DEA scheduling. It requires a prescription but can be prescribed by any licensed provider without special restrictions.

Finding Tri-Sprintec 28 Day at a Pharmacy

Tri-Sprintec is generally available at most chain and independent pharmacies. If your usual pharmacy is out, medfinder can help you find a nearby location with it in stock without calling multiple pharmacies yourself. For more on Tri-Sprintec safety, read our guide: Tri-Sprintec side effects: what to expect.