Levonorgestrel Lupin Healthcare (Uk) (Levonorgestrel)

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestogen used in hormonal contraception and related pathways.

• Emergency contraception: provides post‑coital protection to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex.
• Regular hormonal contraception: used as a progestin‑only pill to inhibit ovulation and maintain contraceptive efficacy.
• Management of menstrual disorders: can be prescribed to reduce heavy bleeding or dysmenorrhea associated with hormonal imbalance.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamic‑pituitary‑ovarian axis, suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby preventing ovulation. It also induces endometrial changes that reduce the likelihood of implantation and thickens cervical mucus, creating a hostile environment for sperm penetration.

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 headache.
• Breast tenderness: temporary swelling or discomfort.
• Irregular bleeding: spotting or changes in menstrual flow.
• Fatigue: feeling unusually tired.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Thromboembolic events: rare blood clot formation.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme levels.
• Ectopic pregnancy: rare occurrence if pregnancy happens despite use.
• Mood changes: severe depression or anxiety.

Before using levonorgestrel, consider the following safety measures.

• Contraindications: avoid if you have a known hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel or any tablet component.
• Pregnancy status: do not use if you are already pregnant; the product is intended for prevention, not termination.
• Breastfeeding: consult a healthcare professional, as levonorgestrel may pass into breast milk.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications that may reduce efficacy, such as enzyme‑inducing agents.
• Medical conditions: discuss with a clinician if you have liver disease, cardiovascular risk, or uncontrolled hypertension.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in the original packaging, and protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin: strong enzyme inducers that may markedly reduce contraceptive efficacy.
• St. John’s wort: herbal inducer that can lower plasma levels of levonorgestrel.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antifungal azoles (ketoconazole, itraconazole): may increase levonorgestrel concentrations.
• Antiretroviral drugs (efavirenz, nevirapine): can modestly decrease effectiveness.
• Anticonvulsants (phenobarbital): may require additional contraceptive measures.
• Antidepressants (sertraline): monitor for increased side‑effect profile.
• Hormonal therapies: assess for additive hormonal effects.