Isteranda (Levonorgestrel)

Levonorgestrel is a progestogen used in emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual activity.

• Unprotected intercourse: prevents pregnancy when taken promptly after exposure.
• Contraceptive failure: provides backup when a regular contraceptive method is missed or ineffective.
• Emergency contraception: reduces the risk of implantation when administered within the approved time window.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and ovary, inhibiting or delaying the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby preventing ovulation. It also thickens cervical mucus, reducing sperm penetration, and alters the endometrial lining to make implantation less likely.

Levonorgestrel may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Abdominal pain or cramps: discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Headache: occasional tension‑type headache.
• Dizziness: brief episodes of light‑headedness.
• Fatigue: feeling unusually tired.
• Menstrual changes: spotting or altered timing of the next period.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Chest pain or palpitations: may indicate cardiovascular involvement.
• Severe abdominal pain: could signal ectopic pregnancy.
• Liver dysfunction: jaundice or abnormal liver tests.
• Thrombosis: rare clotting events.
• Persistent vomiting: may require medical attention.

Before using Isteranda, consider the following safety measures.

• Timing of intake: take as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours.
• Drug interactions: avoid concomitant use of enzyme‑inducing medicines that may lower effectiveness.
• Medical conditions: consult a healthcare professional if you have liver disease or hormonal disorders.
• Pregnancy status: do not use if you are already pregnant; it will not terminate an existing pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: discuss potential risks with a clinician before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and excessive heat.

Levonorgestrel can interact with other medicines that affect hormone metabolism.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampicin: significantly reduces contraceptive efficacy.
• Enzyme‑inducing antiepileptics (phenytoin, carbamazepine): lower levonorgestrel levels.
• St. John’s Wort: may decrease effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Azole antifungals (ketoconazole): can increase levonorgestrel concentrations.
• Protease inhibitor antiretrovirals: potential pharmacokinetic interaction.
• Combined hormonal contraceptives: may alter overall hormonal balance; monitor for reduced efficacy.