Generic
Levonorgestrel
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Levonorgestrel is an emergency birth control pill. It provides a safe and effective way to prevent an unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Description
Levonorgestrel is a progestin (female hormone). It works to prevent pregnancy by temporarily stopping the release of an egg from the ovary, or preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm. It may also alter the lining of the uterus to stop a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus.
Indications
- Emergency contraception - within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure
Therapeutic class
Emergency Contraception
Pharmacological class
Progestin
Pharmacology
Levonorgestrel, a nortestosterone derivative, is an active isomer of norgestrel. It is a potent inhibitor of ovulation and has androgenic activity.
Mechanism of action
Prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation or preventing fertilization.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Emergency contraception: 1.5 mg as soon as possible or within 72 hours of coitus
- Alternative: 750 mcg as soon as possible or within 72 hours, followed by a 2nd dose 12 hours later
- Most effective if taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- May be taken with or without food
- Take at a fixed time
Missed dose
Not generally applicable (single dose); consult doctor if needed.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Anxiety
- Bloating
- Depression
- Edema
- Irritation
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Irregular menstruation
Precautions & warnings
- Take as soon as possible, preferably within 12 hours and not later than 72 hours
- Notify your doctor if you vomit within 2-3 hours of taking this medicine
- Not as effective as regular methods of contraception; use only as an emergency measure
- Take a pregnancy test about a week after taking Levonorgestrel (5-10% chance it may not have worked)
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
- Severe arterial disease
- Liver adenoma
- Porphyria
- Recent evacuation of hydatidiform mole
- History of breast cancer
- Hepatic impairment
Drug interactions
- Reduced efficacy with enzyme-inducing drugs
- Aminoglutethimide
- May inhibit ciclosporin metabolism
Food interactions
Safety with alcohol is not known; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Levonorgestrel is highly unsafe during pregnancy. Studies on pregnant women and animals have shown significant harmful effects to the developing baby.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Levonorgestrel is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby. Nonhormonal contraceptives are preferred, especially during the first 4 weeks postpartum.
Pediatric use
Not applicable for children.
Geriatric use
No special precautions needed in elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No specific overdose information available; symptomatic and supportive measures should be employed.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Levonorgestrel