Box of Levonelle used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex

Levonelle 1.5 mg Tablet

£26.49

Levonelle is a single-dose emergency contraceptive pill taken to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It contains levonorgestrel and works best when taken promptly.
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Description

Levonelle is an emergency contraceptive tablet designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. It contains a synthetic progestogen hormone and is most effective when taken as soon as possible following the event. Levonelle is suitable for women of reproductive age and can be purchased without a prescription following a pharmacy consultation.

How It Works
Levonelle contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. When taken promptly, it works by preventing or delaying ovulation—the release of an egg from the ovary—so there is no egg available for fertilisation. It may also make it harder for sperm to reach the egg and affect the uterine lining, reducing the likelihood of implantation. Levonelle does not terminate an existing pregnancy and is not effective if ovulation has already occurred.

Why Choose Levonelle
Levonelle has been widely used for many years as a reliable form of emergency contraception. When taken within 12 hours of unprotected sex, it is up to 95% effective. Its single-tablet format offers simplicity and convenience, with minimal disruption to a woman’s routine. Levonelle is often preferred by those seeking fast, accessible emergency contraception with proven safety and tolerability.

Important Note
Levonelle should not be used as a regular contraceptive method and is less effective than ongoing contraception. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Its effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take it, and it may be less reliable in women with higher body weight or BMI. A follow-up consultation is recommended, especially if vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet. Women should still take a pregnancy test if their period is delayed by more than seven days or is unusually light.

Directions

Please refer to the medication’s patient information leaflet before starting any new medication.

  • Take one tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex

  • Effective up to 72 hours (3 days), but most effective within 12 hours

  • Swallow whole with water

  • If vomiting occurs within 3 hours, seek medical advice

  • Can be taken with or without food

  • Store below 25°C

  • Keep in original packaging

  • Keep out of reach of children

Ingredients

Active Ingredient:

  • Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg

Other Ingredients:

  • Lactose monohydrate

  • Maize starch

  • Colloidal silica

  • Magnesium stearate

  • Potato starch

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

  • Nausea

  • Headache

  • Lower abdominal pain

  • Fatigue

  • Menstrual changes

Serious (rare) side effects:

  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)

  • Dizziness or fainting

  • Vomiting that reduces drug absorption

  • Ectopic pregnancy (in rare cases)

  • Irregular heavy bleeding

Stop the medicine and seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Warnings

Do not take Levonelle if allergic to levonorgestrel or any listed ingredient. It is not a substitute for regular contraception and should not be used multiple times within the same menstrual cycle. Less effective in women with high BMI. Not suitable for use during a confirmed pregnancy. Seek medical advice if your period is delayed, very light, or unusual following use. Use with caution in individuals with liver conditions, Crohn’s disease, or a history of ectopic pregnancy.

  • Levonelle is used as emergency contraception to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

  • You can take Levonelle within 72 hours, but it works best when taken within 12 hours.

  • Levonorgestrel is the active ingredient in Levonelle — they are effectively the same medicine.

  • Yes, Levonelle can be taken with or without food.

  • No, Levonelle is available over the counter in the UK, but a pharmacist will check it’s suitable for you.