Plan B (Generic)

Plan B (Levonorgestrel)

General information

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic steroid hormone which has a similar effect to progesterone and is used in the formula of contraceptive pills. This drug has an active superpotent ingredient – norgestrel that is an isomer to progesterone. Levonorgestrel is aimed to prevent pregnancy by means of inhibiting ovulation. It hampers a transport of sperm or eggs to the uterus to avert conception. Due to the intake of this drug a risk of unwanted pregnancy decreases. Levonorgestrel is to be taken within 72 hours after the intercourse in case no contraceptive methods were applied, or the applied method wasn’t safe.

Directions

This remedy is to be taken orally. You must take two tablets in the following way: the first tablet is taken just after the intercourse (not later than within 72 hours); the second tablet is be taken in 12 hours (but not later than 16 hours) after the first tablet. In case the vomiting happened within three hours after the intake of any tablet, take another one. Levonorgestrel pille of 0.75 mg may be taken on any day of your menstruation provided your previous cycle was without any deviations. After the Levonorgestrel emergency treatment being applied, return to the usage of local barrier contraception methods (a condom).

Precautions

Avoid taking Levonorgestrel recurrently during one menstrual cycle as it can provoke an adverse drug interaction. It may negatively affect the menstrual period. In some cases emergency contraceptive pill is not effective in inhibiting pregnancy. Regular contraceptive methods shouldn’t be replaced by taking this drug. The formula of Levonorgestrel may affect the breast milk composition, so you should take it after breastfeeding to avert a possible negative effect on your child. Breastfeeding is avoided after the treatment. You have to notify your health care professional if you suffer from thrombosis, diabetes, vagina inflammation, sexually transmitted diseases, pelvic infection, hypertension, heart valve disorder, heart weakness.

Contraindications

In case you are pregnant, this medication is not to be applied as it does not inhibit pregnancy which has already happened. Levonorgestrel taking is stopped in case the patients suffer from abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic infection, a serious pelvic infection following a pregnancy or abortion within the past 3 months, a history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), uterine fibroid tumors or other conditions altering the shape of the uterus, past or present breast cancer, benign/malignant liver tumor, cervical cancer, a recent abnormal Pap smear which is not diagnosed or treated, diseases weakening the immune system (AIDS, leukemia, or IV drug abuse), in case you have another intrauterine device (IUD).

Possible side effect

Levonorgestrel possible side effects include sickness, retching, stomach pain, giddiness, breast tenderness, weakness, headache, changes of the menstruation cycle , disturbed functioning of digestive system.

Drug interactions

Usage of other remedies stimulating liver enzymes accelerates the metabolism of Levonorgestrel. Drugs that belong to the class of sedatives, sleep-inducing drugs and anticonvulsants used in the management of epilepsy and in the treatment of abnormal heart rhythms can hamper the effectiveness of Levonorgestrel. These drugs are: barbiturates, phenytoin, including primidon, carbamazepine, drugs containing hypericum in their formula (Hypericum perforatum), rifampicin, ritonavir, rifabutin, griseofulvin. Drugs that contain Levonorgestrel may increase toxicity of cyclosporine.

Missed dose

As this medication can be applied only in case of the strong emergency a missing dose is not presupposed.

Overdose

Retching and abnormal bleeding may be expected. If you suspect you have overdosed taking this remedy, immediately notify your health care professional.

Storage

This medication is to be stored at room temperature between 20-25 C (68-77 F). The process of storing is administered away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. It is not recommended to store it in a bathroom and places available for children.

Note

The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.