Levonorgestrel is a common active ingredient in many hormonal contraceptives available in the market.
It is found in emergency contraceptive pills as well as intrauterine systems.
There are many birth control products available in the market today.
One of the most common ingredients in many contraceptives is Levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestogen.
Chemically, Levonorgestrel is a gonane progestin from 19-nortestosterone and a hormonally active levorotatory.
Mechanism of Action: Levonorgestrel works by reducing free and total testosterone, dehydroepiandrostetone sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
It is significant to note that Levonorgestrel has no effect on markers or sexual function of androgen bioactivity.
Uses: Levonorgestrel is a common ingredient in emergency contraceptive pills (ECP).
It is an active ingredient in Norplant and Jadelle as well as Mirena intrauterine system which is a plastic contraceptive device that contains the female hormone, levonorgestrel.
The female hormone levonorgestrel changes the women's cervical mucus and uterine lining to make it hard for sperms to get to the uterus and make attachment by the fertilized egg difficult as well.
When placed in the uterus, the intrauterine system slowly releases the hormone to prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years.
It is recommended that the intrauterine system be used by a woman who is in a monogamous sexual relationship and has had one child.
A progestin hormone, Levonorgestrel does not contain estrogen.
The intrauterine system containing Levonorgestrel can also be used by women who have heavy menstrual bleeding.
Contra-Indications: The Levonorgestrel medical should not be used by a person who has abnormal vaginal bleeding, breast cancer, liver problem, uncontrolled pelvic infection uterine or cervical cancer or weak immune system.
You should consult a doctor before using Levonorgestrel, especially if you a blood-clotting disorder or bleeding, pelvic infection, sexually transmitted disease, vaginal infection, heart disease, heart valve disorder or high blood pressure.
Some of serious side effects of a Levonorgestrel intrauterine system are: · Pelvic pain · Severe cramps · Pale skin · Easy bleeding or bruising · Unusual vaginal discharge · Fever · Chills · Severe headaches · Jaundice · And, sudden weakness or numbness It is also possible to experience stomach pain, diarrhea and breast tenderness when taking Levonorgestrel.
Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any one of these symptoms.