Levonorgestrel Crescent Pharma (Levonorgestrel)

• Levonorgestrel is a progestogen used in hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy.
• Emergency contraception: prevents pregnancy after unprotected intercourse when taken within the recommended time frame.
• Regular contraception: provides ongoing contraceptive protection when used according to prescribing guidelines.
• Prevention of unintended pregnancy: reduces the risk of an unplanned pregnancy in women of reproductive age.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby preventing ovulation. It also induces changes in the cervical mucus and endometrial lining, making the environment less suitable for fertilization and implantation.

Levonorgestrel is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Headache: transient tension-type headache.
• Fatigue: feeling of tiredness.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Abdominal pain: mild cramps or discomfort.
• Menstrual changes: spotting or altered bleeding patterns.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Severe abdominal pain: may indicate ectopic pregnancy.
• Chest pain or shortness of breath: possible thromboembolic event.
• Severe headache or visual disturbances: signs of vascular complications.
• Liver dysfunction: jaundice or abnormal liver enzymes.
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding: warrants medical evaluation.

Before using Levonorgestrel, certain precautions should be considered.

• Pregnancy contraindication: do not use if already pregnant.
• Known hypersensitivity: avoid if allergic to levonorgestrel or excipients.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution in liver disease.
• Thromboembolic history: avoid in women with clotting disorders.
• Severe side effects: seek medical attention if serious reactions occur.
• Store at room temperature below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampicin: reduces contraceptive effectiveness.
• St. John’s wort: may decrease hormone levels.
• Antiepileptic drugs (phenytoin, carbamazepine): lower efficacy.
• Certain HIV protease inhibitors: can alter hormone metabolism.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Ketoconazole and other azole antifungals: may increase hormone levels.
• Macrolide antibiotics (erythromycin, clarithromycin): potential modest interaction.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): monitor for menstrual changes.
• Herbal supplements (ginseng, green tea extract): may affect hormone activity.