Lenostella (Levonorgestrel)

Lenostella (levonorgestrel) is used within the progestogen pathway for hormonal contraception.

• Emergency contraception: prevents pregnancy when taken within 72‑120 hours after unprotected intercourse.
• Regular contraception: provides ongoing prevention of ovulation when incorporated into approved hormonal regimens.
• Menstrual cycle management: may be used to delay or regulate the onset of menstruation under medical supervision.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge required for ovulation. It also induces changes in the cervical mucus and endometrial lining, creating an environment less favorable for fertilization and implantation of a fertilized egg.

Levonorgestrel may cause a range of adverse reactions, which are generally classified by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset.
• Headache: transient cranial pain.
• Fatigue: feeling of tiredness.
• Menstrual changes: spotting or altered bleeding pattern.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, difficulty breathing.
• Thromboembolic events: blood clot formation.
• Liver dysfunction: jaundice or elevated liver enzymes.

When considering Lenostella, several precautionary measures should be observed to ensure safe use.

• Timing of administration: take as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse for maximum efficacy.
• Contraindications: avoid if known hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel or other progestogens.
• Existing pregnancy: do not use if confirmed pregnancy; it does not terminate an existing pregnancy.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications that may reduce effectiveness, such as enzyme inducers.
• Medical conditions: consult a healthcare professional if you have liver disease, uncontrolled epilepsy, or hormonal disorders.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Enzyme inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin): may markedly reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
• Antifungal agents (e.g., griseofulvin): can lower plasma levels of levonorgestrel.
• St. John’s wort: herbal inducer that may compromise emergency contraception.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antiretrovirals (e.g., efavirenz): may modestly decrease efficacy; monitor for breakthrough.
• Hormonal therapies (e.g., estrogen‑containing contraceptives): assess combined hormonal effects.
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital): may require alternative contraceptive measures.