Levonorgestrel (72 hours) The Morning After Pill 1.5 mg tablet (Brands May Vary)

Levonorgestrel 1.5mg tablet is an emergency contraceptive used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g., condom split or missed pill). It can be used within 72 hours (3 days), and it works better the sooner you take it (ideally within 12 hours).

This product listing is for a single 1.5mg levonorgestrel tablet supplied as emergency contraception. Brand and packaging may vary, but the active ingredient strength is the same.

Important information:

• Not for regular contraception. Use a reliable ongoing method going forward.
• Does not protect against STIs. Use condoms to reduce STI risk.
• It may not prevent pregnancy every time. If you are unsure, seek advice from a pharmacist, GP or sexual health clinic. 

Always read the leaflet supplied with the pack and follow pharmacist advice.

Dose

• Take ONE tablet (1.5mg) as soon as possible after unprotected sex/contraceptive failure and no later than 72 hours (3 days). Swallow with water.

If you vomit

• If you are sick (vomit) within 3 hours of taking the tablet, you may need another tablet as soon as possible. Get advice urgently.

After taking the tablet

• Use condoms until your next period (emergency contraception does not protect you from pregnancy if you have unprotected sex again).
• Your next period may come earlier or later than expected. If your period is more than 5–7 days late, unusually light/heavy, or you have pregnancy symptoms, do a pregnancy test and seek advice.

Important interaction advice (enzyme-inducing medicines)

• If you have taken enzyme-inducing medicines or St John’s wort in the last 4 weeks, oral levonorgestrel may be less effective. A copper IUD is preferred; if unsuitable/unavailable, a double dose (3mg) may be advised by a clinician/pharmacist. 

Active ingredient

• Levonorgestrel 1.5mg (one tablet).

Other ingredients

Excipients vary by manufacturer/brand (brands may vary). Check the carton/leaflet for the full ingredient list, especially if you have allergies or intolerances. 

Do not take if

• You are allergic to levonorgestrel or any ingredients listed on your pack leaflet.

Seek advice before use if

• Your period is already late, you have unusual bleeding, or you think you may already be pregnant (it will not work if you are already pregnant).
• You have severe abdominal pain now, or a history of ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb).
• You have used enzyme-inducing medicines (including St John’s wort) in the last 4 weeks (may reduce effectiveness).

Possible side effects

Side effects can include feeling sick, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, tiredness, and changes to your next period. See the leaflet for the full list.

Get urgent medical help if

• You develop severe lower abdominal pain after taking the tablet (could indicate ectopic pregnancy).

Other key warnings

• Does not protect against STIs.
• If you are under 16, emergency contraception is still available, but pharmacy supply may require additional safeguarding/clinical assessment or referral as per local SOP/PGD.