Norlevo (Levonorgestrel)

Norlevo (levonorgestrel) is used as an oral hormonal emergency contraceptive to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.

• Unprotected sexual intercourse: Reduces the risk of pregnancy when taken within 72 hours.
• Contraceptive failure (e.g., missed pill): Provides a backup method to prevent unintended pregnancy.
• Sexual assault: Offers an immediate option to lower the chance of pregnancy after forced intercourse.

• Levonorgestrel binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, inhibiting the luteinizing hormone surge and thereby preventing or delaying ovulation. It may also alter tubal motility and endometrial receptivity, reducing the likelihood of fertilization and implantation if ovulation has already occurred.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Headache: transient tension or migraine‑type pain.
• Fatigue: feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Dizziness: light‑headed sensation.
• Menstrual changes: spotting or altered timing of the next period.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe abdominal pain: persistent or worsening pain may indicate ectopic pregnancy.
• Chest pain: unexplained discomfort requiring immediate evaluation.
• Persistent vomiting: inability to retain oral medication.
• Signs of thromboembolism: sudden leg swelling or shortness of breath.

Before using Norlevo, consider the following precautions:

• Timing of intake: should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours.
• Repeated use: not intended for regular contraception; limit use to emergency situations.
• Underlying conditions: consult a healthcare professional if you have a history of hormonal disorders or liver disease.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications that may affect efficacy.
• Pregnancy testing: if menstrual period is delayed beyond three weeks, consider a pregnancy test.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, in the original packaging, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levonorgestrel may interact with other medicines that influence its absorption or metabolism.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antifungal azoles (e.g., ketoconazole): may increase levonorgestrel concentrations.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin): potential modest reduction in efficacy.
• Hormonal contraceptives: concurrent use may require additional dosing guidance.
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., valproate): may alter hormonal balance.
• Antiretrovirals (e.g., efavirenz): possible decreased effectiveness.