Levonorgestrel is a generic type of emergency contraception that’s to be used within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
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Levonorgestrel is a type of emergency contraception that comes in the form of a tablet. It’s to be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It will prevent 84% of expected pregnancies but it’s more effective the earlier you take it, especially within 12 hours.
Emergency contraception, or the morning-after pill, is a type of birth control taken after sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. It is best to use regular birth control methods, like the combined pill or IUDs, or condoms as this is more effective than emergency contraception. Levonorgestrel also won’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are the best way to protect both partners from STIs.
How does it work?
The Levonorgestrel Tablet uses a synthetic progestogen hormone called levonorgestrel. This active ingredient works in multiple ways. It stops or delays your ovaries from releasing an egg, prevents any sperm from fertilising any released eggs, and may also change the lining of the uterus so any fertilised egg won’t develop.
It’s advised that you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. You have a window of 12-72 hours for Levonorgestrel to be the most effective.
What doses of Levonorgestrel Tablets are there?
A Levonorgestrel tablet contains 1.5mg of levonorgestrel, and it’s a single treatment. Some doctors may recommend two doses of 0.75mg, taken 12 hours apart. This method is just as effective as taking one dose.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
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How to take Levonorgestrel
You should only take Levonorgestrel if you’ve had unprotected intercourse, if the condom you used broke, or if you forgot to take your contraceptive pill when you were supposed to. It won’t work if you’re already pregnant, and shouldn’t be used as regular birth control.
Take one tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex happens. Preferably within 12 hours and no more than 72 hours (3 days);
You can take Levonorgestrel at any point in your menstrual cycle;
Swallow the tablet whole with water;
Check with your doctor if you are taking other medications as it may make Levonorgestrel less effective. They may prescribe you a different emergency contraceptive like a copper IUD or you can take a double dose;
Continue to use your regular birth control at the normal time or use condoms till your next period, especially if you are continuing to have sex.
Our clinicians will advise you on the best way to take Levonorgestrel. If you have any further questions or concerns, they would be happy to answer them.
How effective is Levonorgestrel?
Levonorgestrel tablets are more effective the earlier you take them. Results from clinical studies show that when Levonorgestrel was taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it prevented 85-97% of expected pregnancies.
You’ll know if it has worked when you receive your next period, but you should still take a pregnancy test to know for sure if you’re pregnant or not.
What happens if I take too much?
The packet will only contain one tablet, so there shouldn’t be a risk of an overdose. There have also been no reports of serious side effects from taking too many. You may feel sick or have irregular bleeding. If you have vomited after taking Levonorgestrel, report it to your clinician as soon as possible; it may not have worked, and you might need to take another one.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
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FAQ: Levonorgestrel Tablet
Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
Is Levonorgestrel similar to any other treatments?
Answer:
Levonorgestrel is the generic version of Levonelle (Plan B). Levonelle contains the same active ingredient levonorgestrel and works the same way. Levonorgestrel is also used in other forms of birth control, like combined pills, mini-pills and IUDs. These can’t be used as emergency contraception but are helpful for long-term protection from unwanted pregnancies.
EllaOne is the other option and it’s unique in that it’s the only emergency birth control that uses the active ingredient ulipristal acetate, and can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex.
What are the side effects of Levonorgestrel?
Answer:
It’s important to note that your period might be different after taking Levonorgestrel. Most women will get their period at the normal time, as expected, but some may get it later or earlier. If your period is more than five days late, irregular, or unusually heavy or light, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Other possible side effects are tender breasts, diarrhoea or feeling dizzy. There have also been reports of very rare effects, such as a rash, itchiness, swelling of the face, pelvic pain and painful periods. Again, if you’re concerned about side effects or think you’re having a reaction, let your doctor know as soon as you can.
Can I still breastfeed if I’ve used Levonorgestrel?
Answer:
Levonorgestrel is safe to take while breastfeeding. Although small amounts of levonorgestrel may enter your breast milk, it won’t be harmful to your baby.
If you’re worried, though, you can take Levonorgestrel immediately after breastfeeding and then avoid nursing for at least 8 hours. You can then use a breast pump in the meantime to reduce the quantity of the medication in your breast milk before your next feed.
Will my weight affect Levonorgestrel working?
Answer:
No, there’s thought to be no relation between BMI and the effectiveness of morning after pills. Studies show no evidence of reduced levonorgestrel levels relating to an increased pregnancy rate in obese women. It concluded that emergency contraceptive pills could be taken regardless of body weight or BMI. Higher dose should be considered for patients with body-weight over 70kg or BMI over 26kg/m2.
Do I need a prescription for Levonorgestrel?
Answer:
No, you won’t need a prescription for a Levonorgestrel tablet. You can get it over the counter from most pharmacies, contraception clinics, and sexual health clinics, or speak to one of our experts.
Before you can buy it over the counter though, the pharmacist will need to speak to you to make sure it’s safe and suitable for you.
Why should I buy Levonorgestrel online with Treated?
Answer:
We’re all about simplifying healthcare. Just fill in our questionnaire so we can get to know your health better, and our clinicians will show you a list of treatments that you can choose yourself.
Once you’ve chosen Levonorgestrel, you’ll receive it the next working day. We’ll even stay in touch to see how you’re getting on so if you have any questions let us know.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.
Low dose mifepristone and two regimens of levonorgestrel for emergency contraception: a WHO multicentre randomised trial. The Lancet Volume 360, Issue 9348, 7 December 2002, Pages 1803-1810.
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