Levlen

Levlen works by providing a steady dose of hormones to the body, which helps regulate the menstrual cycle and prevents the release of an egg from the ovary. It is an oral contraceptive that needs to be taken daily, preferably at the same time each day, to maintain its effectiveness.

It is important to note that Levlen does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If STI protection is required, additional measures such as condoms should be used in combination with this drug.

How to use

To use Levlen effectively, follow these instructions:

1. Start on the First Day of Menstrual Cycle: Begin taking Levonorgestel on the first day of your menstrual cycle (the first day of menstrual bleeding). This will provide immediate contraceptive protection. If you start on any other day, additional contraceptive methods should be used for the first seven days.
2. Take One Pill Daily: Take one pill at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow it whole with water. It is important to take the pill consistently every day to maintain its effectiveness.
3. Follow the Pill Pack Sequence: Levlen comes in packs with 21 active pills (containing hormones) and 7 inactive pills (placebos or "reminder" pills). Take one active pill daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by one inactive pill daily for the next 7 days.
4. Start a New Pack Immediately: After completing the 28-day pack, start a new pack the next day, even if you are still menstruating. Do not skip any days between packs to ensure continuous contraceptive coverage.
5. Be Consistent: Take the pills in the correct order, following the arrows or instructions on the pill pack. Do not skip any active or inactive pills, as it may reduce the effectiveness of Levlen.
6. Missed Pills: If you forget to take an active pill, take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day.
7. Additional Contraceptive Protection: Levlen provides contraception when taken correctly, but it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Consider using condoms or other barrier methods to reduce the risk of STIs.

Dosage

However, here is a general guideline for the typical dosage of Levlen:

1. Medicine typically comes in a pack containing 28 pills. This includes 21 active pills (containing hormones) and 7 inactive pills (placebos or "reminder" pills).
2. Start with the first active pill in the pack on the first day of your menstrual cycle (the first day of menstrual bleeding).
3. Take one active pill at the same time each day, preferably with or without food. It's important to take the pill consistently, ideally around the same time every day, to maintain its effectiveness.
4. After finishing the 21 active pills, continue taking one inactive pill (placebo) daily for the next 7 days. These inactive pills serve as a reminder and help you maintain your daily pill-taking routine.
5. Start a new pack immediately after finishing the previous pack, even if you are still menstruating. Do not skip any days between packs to ensure continuous contraceptive coverage.

Side effects

Levlen may cause certain side effects in some individuals. While not everyone experiences side effects, it's important to be aware of them. Common side effects can include:

1. Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach.
2. Headaches: Mild to moderate headaches can occur.
3. Breast Tenderness: Some individuals may experience breast soreness or sensitivity.
4. Weight Changes: Some people may experience slight weight fluctuations.
5. Mood Changes: Mood swings, irritability, or changes in mood can occur.
6. Changes in Menstrual Cycle: Levlen may affect your menstrual cycle, leading to changes in bleeding patterns, lighter periods, or spotting between periods.
7. Acne: Some individuals may experience an increase in acne breakouts.
8. Changes in Libido: Levlen may affect your sex drive, leading to an increase or decrease in libido.

Serious side effects of Levlen are rare but can include blood clots, hypertension, liver problems, and allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headaches, chest pain, shortness of breath, leg pain or swelling, severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), or signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness).

Storage

To properly store Levlen and maintain its effectiveness, follow these storage guidelines:

1. Temperature: Store medicine at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
2. Keep it Dry: Store the medication in a dry place, away from moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom where it may be exposed to humidity.
3. Protect from Light: Keep drug in its original packaging or a container that protects it from light. Direct sunlight or excessive light exposure can degrade the medication.
4. Away from Children and Pets: Store Levlen in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets. It contains hormones that can be harmful if ingested accidentally.
5. Follow Expiry Dates: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Levlen after it has expired. Expired medications may not be as effective and could potentially cause harm.
6. Disposal: If you have expired or unused pills, consult your local guidelines or pharmacist for proper disposal methods. Do not flush medications down the toilet or dispose of them in household waste unless specifically instructed to do so.

Overdose

An overdose of Levlen can potentially lead to adverse effects. If you suspect an overdose or have taken more than the prescribed dose, it is important to seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. Here is some general information about the potential consequences and management of an overdose:

• Symptoms of Overdose: Taking more than the recommended dose of Levonorgestel may cause nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, dizziness, and vaginal bleeding in some cases.
• Emergency Assistance: If you or someone else has taken an excessive amount of Levlen, call your local emergency helpline or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Treatment: The specific treatment for Levlen overdose will depend on the symptoms and severity.

It is crucial to remember that taking more than the prescribed dose of Levlen or any other medication can have serious consequences.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Levlen, it's important to follow the specific instructions below:

1. Missed One Active Pill: If you missed taking one active pill, take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Continue taking the rest of the pills at the usual time. No backup contraception is typically needed.
2. Missed Multiple Active Pills: If you missed taking two or more consecutive active pills (two or more days in a row), take the most recent missed pill as soon as you remember, and then continue taking the rest of the pills at the usual time. Use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for the next seven days. If you had unprotected sex during this time, consider emergency contraception.
3. Missed Inactive Pills: If you missed one or more of the inactive pills (placebos or "reminder" pills), you can simply discard the missed pills and continue taking the rest of the pack as scheduled. No backup contraception is needed.

It's important to note that missing pills can reduce the contraceptive effectiveness of Levlen. To maintain optimal protection against pregnancy, it's essential to take the pills consistently and as directed. Consider using additional contraceptive methods, such as condoms, if you miss active pills or have unprotected sex during the missed pill period.