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Levonelle (levonorgestrel)

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What is Levonelle (levonorgestrel)?

Levonelle is an emergency hormonal contraceptive pill. Clinical studies showed that when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it prevented 84% of expected pregnancies. It has been shown to be more effective than this if taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex and if at all possible should be taken with 12 hours. It is not as effective as the regular hormonal contraceptive pill and should not be relied upon as a replacement.

Levonelle is not recommended for use in children under the age of 12 years.

It is thought to work by:

  • stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg
  • preventing sperm from fertilising any egg you may have already released
  • stopping a fertilised egg from attaching itself to your womb lining.

After using Levonelle it is recommended to use a condom until your next period starts. The use of Levonelle 1500 does not stop the use of the normal contraceptive pill. Pharmacy2U Online Doctor Service offer a convenient & confidential consultation service the Morning After Pill, which could lead to Levonelle being prescribed.

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Levonelle 1500 Microgram Tablet Levonelle 1500 Microgram Tablet £6.50 per tablet Prescription only Select

How to Use Levonelle?

One tablet should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, preferably within 12 hours, and no later than 72 hours. If vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet, another tablet should be taken immediately. It can be used at any time during the menstrual cycle unless menstrual bleeding is overdue as you should NOT take Levonelle if you might be pregnant.

What are the side effects of Levonelle?

Like all medicines, Levonelle can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects are nausea, bleeding not related to menstruation, lower abdominal (stomach) pain, headaches and tiredness. Less commonly, delay of the period, irregular bleeding, diarrhoea and vomiting, tender breasts, diarrhoea, feel dizzy or feel tired can be experienced.

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.