Drug Name:Levonorgestrel
Drug Class:Progestin
Mechanism of Action:
  • Prevents ovulation by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
  • Thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg
  • Alters the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg
Use:
  • Emergency contraception
  • Hormonal contraception
Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Breast tenderness
  • Irregular menstrual bleeding
Contraindications:
  • Known or suspected pregnancy
  • Severe liver disease
  • Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Breast cancer
Specialty:
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Family Medicine
  • Internal Medicine