Quick summary

Type of medicine

Emergency Contraceptive Tablet

Generic

No

Active Ingredient

Levonorgestrel

Effective within

Up to 72 hours (3 days) of Unprotected Sex

Works by

Preventing Ovulation and Inhibiting Sperm Fertilization

Side effects

Nausea, Irregular Bleeding, Lower Abdominal Pain, Tiredness, Headache, Vomiting, Tender Breasts, Diarrhea, Dizziness

Medication details

Description

Levonelle One Step is an emergency contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraception failure. This single-dose pill contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a hormone that can prevent pregnancy by stopping or delaying ovulation.

Levonelle One Step is easy to use, with no need for a prescription and is available without a doctor's appointment. It can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex and is more effective the sooner it is taken.

While Levonelle One Step is not intended for regular use as a contraceptive, it can provide peace of mind in the event of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is not a substitute for regular birth control methods and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

If you need emergency contraception, Levonelle One Step 1500 is a safe and effective option. 

Directions

To maximize the efficacy of Levonelle 1500, it is recommended to take the tablet as soon as possible, ideally within 12 hours, and no later than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, and it can be taken at any point in your menstrual cycle, provided you are not already pregnant. If vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet, another tablet should be taken immediately.

Ingredients

Each Levonelle 1500 tablet contains 1500 micrograms of levonorgestrel as the active substance. Additional components include potato starch, maize starch, colloidal silica anhydrous, magnesium stearate, talc, and lactose monohydrate. It's important to note the presence of lactose, which may affect individuals with lactose intolerance.

Side Effects

Like any medication, Levonelle 1500 can lead to side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include nausea, irregular bleeding until the next period, lower abdominal pain, tiredness, and headache. Less commonly, vomiting, tender breasts, diarrhea, dizziness, and rash may occur. If any side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Warnings

Certain precautions and warnings are associated with Levonelle 1500 use:
Levonelle 1500 is not suitable for pregnant individuals and should not be used as an abortion pill.
If there is uncertainty about pregnancy status or if a period is more than 5 days late, consult a doctor.
Levonelle 1500 may interact with specific medications, affecting its effectiveness. Consult your pharmacist or doctor for guidance if you are taking other medications.
While Levonelle 1500 does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, condoms are recommended for this purpose.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on Aug 24, 2023, 3:30 pm

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

When should I take Levonelle 1500?

Ideally, Levonelle 1500 should be taken as soon as possible, within 12 hours of unprotected intercourse, and no later than 72 hours (3 days) afterward. Taking it sooner increases its effectiveness.

Can I use Levonelle 1500 at any point in my menstrual cycle?

Yes, Levonelle 1500 can be taken at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you are not already pregnant.

What should I do if I vomit after taking Levonelle 1500?

If vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet, you should take another tablet immediately.

Can Levonelle 1500 be used as a regular method of contraception?

No, Levonelle 1500 is not intended for regular contraceptive use. It should only be used as an emergency measure.

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