Meaning of "inactive"

[All Potted Out]

This is about combined pill in hormonal contraception:

"A further course is begun after a break of seven days (some brands provide inactive tablets for these days)."

I'd like to make sure what "inactive" means here. Because my dictionary says inactive means "not functioning or operating" and I don't see why tablets that are not functioning should be given.

[Conchita]

There is less chance of missing a pill if you stay in the habit of taking one every day.

[Yankee]

Hi apo

The "inactive" tablets would be tablets with no active ingredients. They would be used in an effort to ensure that the person taking the pills maintains the 'habit' of taking one pill daily and/or doesn't lose track of when they should start taking the pills again after the break.

Amy
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