Levonorgestrel - Contraceptive Pill

Levonorgestrel - Contraceptive Pill

An emergency contraception called Levonorgestrel is used to stop pregnancy following unprotected intercourse or when conventional birth control methods have failed. It operates by halting the entire development of a woman's egg. If you are already pregnant, this medication will not work for you. 

The frequent use of this medication as a form of birth control is not advised. The use of this medicine as a regular method of birth control is not advised because it is an emergency contraceptive. Talk to your doctor about your contraception alternatives. 

What are the uses of Levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin, a type of hormone that mimics the action of progesterone. It is used for various reproductive health purposes. Here are some common uses of levonorgestrel:

• Emergency Contraception: Levonorgestrel is commonly used as emergency contraception by women who have experienced birth control failure or engaged in unprotected intercourse. It is often referred to as the "morning-after pill."
• Limitations on Ongoing Pregnancies: Levonorgestrel will not terminate an ongoing pregnancy. It is effective in preventing pregnancy when taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected intercourse but is not intended for use as an abortion pill.
• No Protection Against STDs: Levonorgestrel does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia. It solely functions as a contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy.
• Effectiveness and Weight Considerations: The effectiveness of Levonorgestrel may be influenced by certain factors, including the use of specific medications during the previous month. Additionally, for women who weigh more than a certain amount, such as 164 pounds or 74 kilograms, the medication may not be as effective. Weight considerations may impact the absorption and distribution of the drug in the body.
• Timely Use is Critical: Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. The efficacy decreases as time passes, underscoring the importance of prompt use.

See your doctor for further information and to determine whether this medicine is appropriate for your individual condition.

How to use Levonorgestrel Contraceptives?

Read the whole set of instructions on the prescription and medicine package before using the medication. Consult your pharmacist if you have any inquiries. 
Take medicine as advised if it has been prescribed by your doctor. As soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, swallow 1 pill whole, with or without food. When administered within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected intercourse, this medicine functions best. Inquire with your doctor if you need to take another dosage of this medicine if you vomit within two hours of taking it.


Use In Specific Populations

• Nursing mothers: Some progestin passes into breast milk of women using progestin-only pills for long-term contraception, leading to detectable levels in infants' blood.
• Levonorgestrel tablets, 0.75 mg, should not be used by females who have not yet started menstruating or who have already gone through menopause.

What are the side effects of the Levonorgestrel Contraceptive Pill?  

• It is possible to have vomiting, nausea, stomach discomfort, exhaustion, dizziness, changes in vaginal bleeding, breast tenderness, or headache. Inform your doctor or chemist right once if any of these symptoms persist or worsen.
• If your doctor has prescribed Levonorgestrel, keep in mind that your doctor has assessed that the benefits outweigh the risk of adverse effects. Many people who use this medicine experience no major adverse effects.
• Inform your concerned doctor as soon as possible if you have any of the major side effects, such as severe lower stomach discomfort, especially 3 to 5 weeks after starting Levonorgestrel.
• It is uncommon for this medication to cause a severe allergic response. Nevertheless, get medical attention immediately if you detect any of the signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling, extreme dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

What are the precautions of the Levonorgestrel pill? 

• It is crucial that you have continuous monitoring from your doctor to ensure that this medication is performing as intended and is not having any negative side effects.
• Even if you are taking this medication to avoid pregnancy, doing so while you are already pregnant might be harmful to the unborn child. To ensure that you are not pregnant before using this medication, your doctor may have you do a pregnancy test. Tell your doctor as soon as you suspect pregnancy if you've been taking the medication.
• If you get significant lower abdomen or stomach discomfort 3 to 5 weeks after taking this medication, call your doctor straight away.
• A few days after this medication, you can have minor blood spotting. See your concerned doctor as soon as possible if the bleeding persists for longer than a week.
• Your next monthly cycle may come a few days later than usual if you use this medication. See your doctor straight away for a pregnancy test if your next menstruation is more than a week late after taking this medication.
• Effect on menstrual cycle: Levonorgestrel tablets, 0.75 mg, can change the timing of the next expected period. If your period is delayed by more than one week, pregnancy should be considered.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Women who get pregnant or experience lower abdominal pain after using Levonorgestrel tablets, 0.75 mg, should be assessed for ectopic pregnancy.

What happens if I overdose or miss a dose?

A Levonorgestrel overdose is unlikely to occur when the medication is administered as prescribed since the emergency contraception is provided as a single tablet of a specific potency. One pill at a time is the maximum amount that should be taken. However, if you took two pills or more to cancel your pregnancy while being anxious, visit your doctor immediately. 

What additional medications may interact with Levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptives may become ineffective when used with some other medicines, which might lead to pregnancy. If you use any of the following drugs, see a doctor or chemist to determine if taking Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptives is safe for you to do so:  

• Efavirenz,
• Rifampin, or
• Seizure medication

The doctor might recommend alternative medications for desired outcomes without any medical complications.

How to monitor the cycle after taking the Levonorgestrel - Contraceptive Pill?

After taking Levonorgestrel, commonly known as the emergency contraceptive pill or "morning-after pill," it's essential to monitor your menstrual cycle for any changes. Here's the guide on how to monitor your cycle after taking Levonorgestrel:

• Understand the Purpose: Levonorgestrel is used as an emergency contraceptive to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It works primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation.
• Expected Changes: After taking Levonorgestrel, you may experience changes in your menstrual cycle. It's common to have changes in the timing of your next period, including earlier or later than usual.
• Monitor Your Period: Start tracking the first day of your period after taking the pill. Note the date and any differences in flow or duration compared to your typical menstrual cycle.
• Be Aware of Timing: Your next period may come earlier or later than expected. It can arrive within a few days of its usual time or be delayed by up to a week or more. This variability is normal after taking emergency contraception.
• Note Menstrual Symptoms: Pay attention to any menstrual symptoms like cramping, bloating, or changes in blood flow. These symptoms can vary, and changes may occur due to the hormonal effects of Levonorgestrel.
• Monitor for Abnormalities: While irregularities in your cycle are common after taking Levonorgestrel, watch for abnormal symptoms such as very heavy bleeding, severe cramping, or prolonged absence of menstruation (more than a few weeks).
• Take a Pregnancy Test if Necessary: If your period is significantly delayed or if you experience unusual symptoms, consider taking a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy. Levonorgestrel is highly effective but not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy.
• Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or experience severe symptoms after taking Levonorgestrel, consult your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and ensure that everything is normal.
• Consider Regular Contraception: Emergency contraception like Levonorgestrel is not meant for regular use. If you're sexually active and want reliable contraception, discuss other contraceptive options with your healthcare provider.

How to store and dispose of Levonorgestrel?    

• Keep this contraceptive medicine out of the reach of children and in a firmly closed container. Keep it at normal temperature and away from sources of extreme humidity & heat.
• In order to prevent dogs, kids, and other people from ingesting leftover medicines, they should be disposed of in a certain manner. This medicine should not, however, be flushed down the toilet.

When should I contact a doctor for the side effects?

You should contact a doctor if you experience any of these after taking the Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive pill:

• Severe abdominal pain.
• Heavy or prolonged bleeding.
• Severe headaches or vision changes.
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing.
• Severe mood swings or thoughts of self-harm.
• Persistent nausea or vomiting.
• Allergic reactions like rash or swelling.
• Missed period with concerns about pregnancy.
• Any other unusual or concerning symptoms.

Levonorgestrel Vs Desogestrel

Faqs

1. What is the main use of Levonorgestrel tablets?

Levonorgestrel tablets are primarily used as emergency contraception. Their main purpose is to prevent pregnancy following unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure by inhibiting the development of a woman's egg.

2. Can Levonorgestrel be used as a regular contraceptive method?

Levonorgestrel is not intended for regular or ongoing use as a primary contraceptive method. It is specifically designed and recommended for use as an emergency contraceptive. For routine contraception, individuals are advised to explore other contraceptive methods, such as daily birth control pills, patches, injections, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), tailored to their health needs and preferences.

3. Is Levonorgestrel safe for everyone?

While Levonorgestrel is generally safe for most individuals when used as directed, it may not be suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions, medications, or individual factors may influence its safety and effectiveness. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using Levonorgestrel, especially for those with underlying health conditions or specific concerns.

4. Does Levonorgestrel protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

No, Levonorgestrel does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is solely effective as a contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy and does not offer any safeguard against infections transmitted through sexual contact. To protect against STIs, individuals are advised to use barrier methods such as condoms and practice safe sexual behaviors.

5. Does levonorgestrel stop periods?

Levonorgestrel is a hormonal contraceptive and emergency contraceptive that can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. It may cause your period to be delayed, earlier than expected, or even lighter or heavier than usual. However, it does not permanently stop periods.

6. What is the use of levonorgestrel in pregnancy?

Levonorgestrel is not used during pregnancy. It is primarily used as an emergency contraceptive to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is not intended for use as a regular contraceptive during an ongoing pregnancy.

7. Can I get pregnant after taking levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel is effective at preventing pregnancy if taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex, but it is not 100% effective. There is still a small chance of pregnancy if ovulation has already occurred. If your period is more than a week late, consider taking a pregnancy test or consulting a healthcare provider.

8. How successful is levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel is approximately 89% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Its effectiveness decreases as time passes, so it's crucial to take it as soon as possible.

9. How many days does levonorgestrel stay in the body?

Levonorgestrel is typically eliminated from the body within a few days. It is rapidly metabolized and excreted in urine and feces. However, its effects on the menstrual cycle may last longer.

10. When is the best time to take levonorgestrel?

The best time to take levonorgestrel is as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It should be taken within 72 hours, but its effectiveness is highest the sooner it is taken.

11. Who cannot take levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel should be avoided by individuals with known hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel or any component of the product. It is also used with caution in women with certain health conditions, such as severe liver disease or hormone-sensitive cancers.

12. Is levonorgestrel safe to use?

Levonorgestrel is generally considered safe for most women when used as directed. However, it may cause side effects such as nausea, headache, dizziness, and changes in menstrual bleeding. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before using it.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/Levonorgestrel-oral-route/description/drg-20074413 https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17833/Levonorgestrel-oral/details
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a610021.html
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/Levonorgestrel-emergency-contraceptive.html

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.