Common Use

Levonorgestrel is a hormone-based contraception medication that mimics progesterone. It is a racemic isomer of norgestrel and is twice as potent. This medication alters cervical mucus and the uterine lining, preventing sperm from reaching the uterus and inhibiting the attachment of a fertilized egg. Levonorgestrel is primarily used as an emergency contraceptive within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse or when other contraceptive methods fail.

Dosage and Direction

Take Levonorgestrel orally as follows:

• Take the first tablet as soon as possible after intercourse, but no later than 72 hours.
• Take the second tablet 12 hours after the first (no later than 16 hours).

If vomiting occurs within 3 hours of taking a tablet, take an additional tablet. The 0.75 mg tablet can be taken on any day of menstruation, provided the previous period was normal. After using Levonorgestrel, switch to barrier contraception methods (e.g., condoms).

Precautions

Avoid repeated use of Levonorgestrel within one menstrual cycle, as it may disrupt menstrual periods. This medication is not a substitute for regular contraception and should only be used in emergencies. Emergency contraception may not always prevent pregnancy. Levonorgestrel passes into breast milk, so take it after breastfeeding to minimize effects on the baby. Avoid breastfeeding for a period after treatment. Inform your doctor if you have:

• Bleeding or blood-clotting disorders
• Diabetes
• Vaginal or pelvic infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Heart disease, high blood pressure, or heart valve disorders

Contraindications

Do not use Levonorgestrel if:

• You are pregnant (it does not terminate existing pregnancies)
• You have abnormal vaginal bleeding
• You have untreated or uncontrolled pelvic infections
• You have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• You have or had breast, cervical, or uterine cancer
• You have liver disease or liver tumors
• You have a weakened immune system (e.g., leukemia, AIDS, IV drug abuse)

Side Effects

Common side effects of Levonorgestrel include:

• Nausea
• Irregular bleeding
• Delayed menstruation (more than 7 days)
• Dizziness or headache
• Lower abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue

Drug Interaction

Levonorgestrel's effectiveness may be reduced by drugs that induce liver enzymes. These include:

• Barbiturates (e.g., primidone, phenytoin, carbamazepine)
• Drugs containing St. John's wort
• Rifampicin, rifabutin, griseofulvin

Conversely, Levonorgestrel may increase the toxicity of cyclosporine.

Missed Dose

Missed doses are not applicable, as this medication is taken only when needed.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting and bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Levonorgestrel at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Avoid storing it in bathrooms or places accessible to children.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or side effects. It is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific advice tailored to your condition. We are not responsible for any consequences resulting from the use of this information.