Levonorgestrel Tablet 1.5mg

What are Levonorgestrel tablets?

Levonorgestrel tablets are used by women who have had unprotected sex in the last 72 hours to prevent pregnancy and is a generic version of Levonelle.
It is a highly effective method of preventing pregnancy and is often used in emergency contraception and is a safe and effective option for women who want to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

How to buy a Levonorgestrel tablet

You can use our online pharmacy service to buy Levonorgestrel tablets online in the UK and choose from collection, next day or free delivery . We are a regulated GPhC registered pharmacy based in the UK. As Levonorgestrel tablets are a 'Pharmacy-only' (P) medicine a pharmacist needs to have a consultation to make sure treatment is appropriate before you can purchase Levonorgestrel tablets.
Upon completion of your order, our pharmacist will then review your online assessment. If your assessment is approved, our pharmacy team will then dispense your order, which will be dispatched the same day using your chosen delivery method.

How it works

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic version of progesterone, taking this is thought to stop or delay ovulation from releasing eggs and thickening the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the uterus. It is highly effective when taken in the 72 hour window. As it only works in a 72 hour period a tablet can be bought to keep in as an emergency, although it is much preferable to use another form of contraception rather than relying on emergency contraceptives.

How effective is Levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive has an efficiency rate of 95% if it is used correctly within 24 hours, 85% within 24 - 48 hours and dropping to 58% within 48 - 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.
After 72 hours it may little or no effect and ellaOne should be taken instead.

How to take Levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex as the sooner the better; If your BMI is above 26kg/m² or you weigh over 70kg you may need to take two tablets instead of one. You may also need to two tablets if you are on certain medicines.

After taking Levonorgestrel

In the unlikely event you are sick within a 3 hour period of taking it, you will need to take another dose of Levonorgestrel as it will not have had enough to absorb.
Levonorgestrel does not continue to protect you against pregnancy. You should continue with your normal contraception after taking the tablet or you may become pregnant.
Levonorgestrel can make your next period earlier, later or more painful than usual. If your period is more than 7 days late you will need to see a doctor.

Who cannot take Levonorgestrel

It is generally considered a safe and effective emergency contraceptive for most women, it may not be suitable for you if:

1. You are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
2. You have a history of blood clots
3. You have breast or uterine cancer
4. You have suffered with liver problems

Levonorgestrel side effects

There are no serious or long-term side effects from taking the emergency contraceptive pill. These side effects vary and not everyone will experience them. However, like any medication it can cause side effects, these include:

1. Nausea (feeling sick)
2. Headaches
3. Irregular menstrual periods
4. Weight gain
5. Breast tenderness
6. Mood changes
7. Severe abdominal pain
8. Chest pain
9. Signs of a blood clot, such as swelling or redness in the legs

See your doctor if you think you might be pregnant, your next period is more than 7 days late, you think you might be pregnant, you next period is lighter or shorter than usual or if you have sudden pain in your lower abdomen.

More Levonorgestrel & Emergency Contraception information

If you would like more information, you can find the SPC: Levonorgestrel Tablet SPC
If you would like more information on Emergency Contraception: NHS Emergency Contraception