Levonorgestrel Morningside Healthcare (Levonorgestrel)

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestogen used in hormonal contraception and emergency contraception.

• Emergency contraception: prevents pregnancy when taken within a defined time after unprotected sex.
• Regular contraception: provides ongoing birth control when used according to prescribed schedule.

• Levonorgestrel acts as a synthetic progestogen that binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, suppressing the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby inhibiting ovulation. It also induces changes in the cervical mucus and endometrial lining that reduce sperm penetration and implantation potential.

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 soreness of the breasts.
• Menstrual changes: spotting, earlier or delayed periods.
• Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort.
• Fatigue: feeling unusually tired.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Blood clotting disorders: deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
• Severe abdominal pain: may indicate ectopic pregnancy.
• Liver dysfunction: jaundice or abnormal liver enzymes.
• Persistent vomiting: inability to retain oral medication.
• Vision changes: blurred vision or visual disturbances.

Levonorgestrel should be used with awareness of specific safety considerations.

• Pregnancy contraindication: do not use if already pregnant.
• Liver disease caution: avoid or monitor in patients with hepatic impairment.
• Hypersensitivity avoidance: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Hormonal therapy interaction: inform provider of any concurrent hormonal medications.
• Medical review for severe side effects: seek immediate care if serious reactions develop.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampicin: reduces contraceptive effectiveness.
• Carbamazepine: may lower drug levels.
• Phenytoin: can diminish contraceptive protection.
• St. John's wort: induces metabolism, decreasing efficacy.
• Certain antiretrovirals (e.g., efavirenz): may compromise contraception.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Ketoconazole: may increase levonorgestrel levels.
• Antifungal agents (e.g., itraconazole): require monitoring.
• Antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline): possible reduced effectiveness.
• Herbal supplements (e.g., ginseng): may affect hormone balance.
• Hormonal therapies (e.g., estrogen patches): assess combined effect.