Levonorgestrel Gedeon Richter (Levonorgestrel)

Levonorgestrel is a progestin used in hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy.

• Emergency contraception: prevents pregnancy after unprotected intercourse when taken within the recommended time frame.
• Regular hormonal contraception: provides ongoing prevention of ovulation as part of progestin‑only regimens.
• Ovulation suppression: inhibits the mid‑cycle luteinising hormone surge to stop egg release.
• Cervical mucus alteration: thickens cervical mucus to impede sperm penetration.
• Pregnancy prevention after contraceptive failure: offers a backup method when another method fails.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, suppressing the luteinising hormone surge and thereby inhibiting ovulation. It also induces changes in the endometrium and thickens cervical mucus, creating an environment hostile to sperm penetration and implantation.

Levonorgestrel may cause a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Headache: transient tension‑type headaches.
• Breast tenderness: temporary sensitivity or swelling.
• Irregular bleeding: spotting or changes in menstrual flow.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Thromboembolic events: blood clot formation in veins or arteries.
• Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis with rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty.
• Liver dysfunction: abnormal liver enzymes or jaundice.

Before using Levonorgestrel, consider the following precautions.

• Assess medical history: screen for personal or family history of thromboembolic disorders.
• Avoid in known pregnancy: the drug is not indicated for use during established pregnancy.
• Consider breastfeeding: limited data; discuss risks with a healthcare professional.
• Monitor hormonal side effects: watch for mood changes, weight fluctuations, or persistent headaches.
• Review drug interactions: evaluate concomitant medications that may affect efficacy.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and heat.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampin and other strong enzyme inducers: may markedly reduce contraceptive efficacy.
• Antiretroviral protease inhibitors: can alter hormone levels and reduce reliability.
• St. John’s wort: herbal inducer that may decrease effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antifungal azoles (e.g., ketoconazole): may increase plasma concentrations.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline): possible modest reduction in effect.
• Herbal supplements such as ginseng: may affect hormone metabolism.