Skip to main content

ellaOne (ulipristal acetate)

‌

Sorry, this treatment is no longer available through our Online Dr service

What is ellaOne?

ellaOne is an emergency hormonal contraceptive pill that acts by modifying the activity of the natural hormone progesterone. It is thought to work by stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg, although is not effective in every case. Clinical studies showed that when used between 0 and 72 hours after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, ellaOne was equally as effective as Levonelle. The observed pregnancy rate was 1.5% in both studies. In another clinical trial in women who presented for emergency contraception between 48 and 120 hours after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, the observed pregnancy rate was 2.1%.

After using ellaOne it is recommended to use a condom until your next period starts as it can interfere with the normal contraceptive pill. Pharmacy2U Online Doctor Service offer a convenient and confidential Morning after pill consultation service that can lead to ellaOne being prescribed.

Start an online consultation with one of our UK-registered GPs
Our GP may advise, prescribe or recommend further tests
Receive certified genuine medication by your chosen delivery method
EllaOne 30mg Tablet EllaOne 30mg Tablet £17.56 per tablet Prescription only Select

How to Use ellaOne?

A tablet should be taken as soon as possible, and no later than 120 hours after unprotected intercourse. It is more effective, the earlier it is taken. If vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet, you should take another tablet. ellaOne can be used at any time during the menstrual cycle unless menstrual bleeding is overdue as you should NOT take the drug if you might be pregnant.

If you become pregnant after taking ellaOne it is important that you consult with your doctor at the earliest opportunity.

Do not use it if you are breast feeding.

Repeated use within the same menstrual cycle is not advisable and it is not as effective as the normal contraceptive pill so should in no instance replace a regular contraceptive method. The patient information leaflet should be read carefully before use.

What are the side effects of ellaOne?

Like all medicines, ellaOne can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects are abdominal (stomach) pain, irregular or unexpected vaginal bleeding, premenstrual syndrome, uterine cramps, headache, tiredness, dizziness, feeling sick, vomiting, indigestion, menstrual cramps, heavy/prolonged periods, muscle cramps, back pain, mood swings.

The following side effects are uncommon or rarely experienced: breast pain, vaginal pain or itching, vaginal discharge, decreased / increased libido, hot flushes, diarrhoea, constipation, appetite changes, flatulence, frequent urination, dry mouth, pain, muscle and bone pain, trembling, blurred vision, anxiety, trouble sleeping, sleepiness, depression, irritability, acne, itching and skin rash, acid reflux, swollen tongue, toothache, taste disturbance, attention deficit, lack of energy, vertigo, rupture of a pre-existing ovarian cyst, chills, inflammation, feeling ill, fever, thirst, chest discomfort, cough, dry throat, dehydration, nose bleeds, sinus congestion, hives, coloured urine, renal pain and kidney stones. You should consult the full list of side effects on the patient information leaflet provided with your treatment. Details of this can also be found here.