MedDataToolLevonorgestrel
Generic: Levonorgestrel And Ethinyl Estradiol
Combination oral contraceptiveAlso: Iclevia✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗Levonorgestrel is a medication used by women to prevent pregnancy. It works by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs, making it less likely for pregnancy to occur. You take it as a tablet, one each day for 91 days, starting with the first pill on a Sunday after your period begins. It's important to know that if you smoke and are over 35 years old, you should not use this medication due to an increased risk of serious blood clots. Additionally, if you are taking hepatitis C medications that include ombitasvir, paritaprevir, or ritonavir, you should avoid using levonorgestrel.
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Uses
- Prevent pregnancy.
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Dosage
Take one tablet daily by mouth at the same time for 91 days.
Start on a Sunday after your period begins.
Use additional contraception for the first 7 days if starting new.
Continue the same schedule for each 91-day course.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
headachenauseaacnebreast tendernessweight gaindepressioncardiovascular events
Serious
strokeliver disease
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Do not use if you smoke and are over 35 years old.
- Increased risk of serious cardiovascular events with smoking.
- Use caution if switching from other contraceptives.
- Not recommended for women who are breastfeeding.
- Consider the possibility of pregnancy before starting.
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Drug interactions
- Aprepitantmay decrease effectivenessCaution
- Carbamazepinemay decrease effectivenessCaution
- Rifampinmay decrease effectivenessCaution
- John's wortmay decrease effectivenessCaution
- Colesevelammay decrease effectiveness of estrogen.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).