Labella (Levonorgestrel)

Levonorgestrel acts on the hormonal pathways that regulate ovulation and implantation, making it suitable for contraception.

• Emergency contraception: prevents pregnancy when taken shortly after unprotected sex.
• Hormonal contraception: used as a regular method to inhibit ovulation and alter the endometrial lining.
• Ovulation inhibition: suppresses the release of an egg when administered before the luteinizing hormone surge.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby inhibiting ovulation. It also induces changes in cervical mucus, reduces tubal motility, and alters the endometrial lining, creating an environment unfavorable for fertilization and implantation.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Headache: occasional tension‑type headaches.
• Breast tenderness: temporary discomfort in breast tissue.
• Menstrual changes: spotting or altered cycle timing.
• Dizziness: brief episodes of light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Thromboembolic events: rare blood clot formation.
• Severe allergic reaction: hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Liver dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme levels.
• Pregnancy complications: if taken during an unrecognized early pregnancy.
• Persistent abdominal pain: may indicate underlying pathology.

Levonorgestrel should be used with awareness of specific safety considerations.

• Contraindication: known hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel or any tablet excipients.
• Pregnancy: not indicated for ongoing pregnancy; seek medical advice if pregnancy is suspected.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution in patients with liver disease.
• Thromboembolic history: avoid in individuals with a history of clotting disorders.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications (see interactions section).
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levonorgestrel can interact with several medicines, affecting its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampin: induces metabolism, reducing contraceptive effectiveness.
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin): increase clearance, compromising efficacy.
• St. John’s wort: herbal inducer that may lower drug levels.
• HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir): may alter hormonal activity.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., griseofulvin): can reduce contraceptive reliability.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole): may increase hormone levels, requiring monitoring.
• Antibiotics (tetracycline, metronidazole): potential modest reduction in effectiveness.
• Hormonal therapies (combined oral contraceptives): may require dosage adjustments.