Levonorgestrel contains a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation, reducing the chance of an egg being released for fertilisation.

 

Depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, it may also make it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. It is not an abortion pill and will not work if a pregnancy has already started.

 

The effectiveness of levonorgestrel decreases over time, which is why it is important to take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

Levonorgestrel 1.5mg should be taken after:

 

• Unprotected sexual intercourse.
• A split or slipped condom.
• Missed contraceptive pills.
• Failure of another contraceptive method.
• Any situation where there is a risk of unintended pregnancy.

 

It should ideally be taken within 72 hours (3 days) but may still be suitable for use up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. However, the sooner it is taken, the more effective it is.

Adults and young people aged 16 years and over should take one 1.5mg tablet as a single dose as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

 

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• Do not delay taking the tablet while waiting for your next meal.
• If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the tablet, you should seek medical advice immediately as another dose may be required.

 

Continue using reliable contraception for the remainder of your cycle and follow the advice provided in the patient information leaflet.

Each tablet contains:

• Levonorgestrel 1.5mg

Like all medicines, levonorgestrel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

 

Common side effects include:

• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Lower abdominal pain
• Breast tenderness
• Spotting or changes to your next period
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea

 

Your next period may arrive earlier or later than expected and may be lighter or heavier than normal.

 

If you experience severe abdominal pain, signs of an allergic reaction, or your period is more than five days late, seek medical advice promptly.

This medicine may not be suitable if:

 

• You are allergic to levonorgestrel or any of the ingredients.
• You already know or suspect you are pregnant.
• You have severe liver disease.
• You have certain rare inherited conditions affecting the digestion of lactose or sugars.
• You are under 16 years of age without appropriate medical advice.

 

If you have previously had an ectopic pregnancy, severe digestive disorders, or any condition affecting absorption of medicines, speak to a healthcare professional before taking this product.

• Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
• This medicine is for occasional emergency use and should not replace your regular contraceptive method.
• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• If your next period is more than five days late, unusually light, unusually heavy, or you develop pregnancy symptoms, take a pregnancy test and seek medical advice.
• If you have an underlying medical condition or take regular medication, speak to your pharmacist or doctor before using this product.
• Always read the patient information leaflet before taking this medicine.

For further information about this medicine, including the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL), please visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC). Additional guidance on emergency contraception is also available from NHS.uk.

This product is supplied following an assessment by a registered healthcare professional to ensure it is suitable and safe for you to use.