"i started using the generic brand which the pharmacy gave me and had really bad side effects, such as feeling depressed, listless, crying all the time which i never do, then my doctor recommended i use the name brand alesse. i&#039;ve been on it a month with no side effects at all. i feel great. i had no cramping and a lighter period. i feel happy and myself again. i&#039;ve tried a lot of other brands all with some side effects. for me this is a great birth control."