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Plan B Emergency Contraceptive Information

Plan B Emergency Contraceptive (Levonorgestrel) is used to reduce the chance of getting pregnant after unprotected sex. It is also used to prevent unintended pregnancy in situations of contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom, missed birth control pills, diaphragm or cap dislodgment, and intrauterine device expulsion, or in the case of a sexual assault. Its active ingredient is levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that belongs to the progestin class of drugs. Levonorgestrel mainly prevents pregnancy by stopping or delaying ovulation. As a result, there's no egg available for sperm to fertilize. It may also thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg, or alter the uterine lining to prevent implantation, although these effects are less certain. This emergency contraceptive does not terminate an existing pregnancy. It doesn't affect fertility in the long term when used as prescribed. It should, however, not be used in place of a regular contraceptive. It also doesn't prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS.

Plan B Emergency Contraceptive Side Effects

Some mild side effects of this medication include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, dizziness, headache, breast tenderness, diarrhea, and irregular menstrual bleeding. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Prolonged delay in menstruation;
• Severe abdominal pain with severe dizziness and lightheadedness;
• Severe vaginal bleeding

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Plan B Emergency Contraceptive Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to levonorgestrel or any other ingredients in Plan B Emergency Contraceptive. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Abnormal uterine bleeding;
• Breast cancer;
• Diabetes;
• Ectopic pregnancy;
• High blood pressure;
• Inflammatory bowel diseases;
• Liver disease;
• Malabsorption problems;
• Migraine;
• Salpingitis (infections of the fallopian tubes)

This medication is only for emergency contraception and should not be relied on as a regular contraceptive, as it is not as effective as other contraceptives. Pregnancy may still occur if you engage in unprotected sexual intercourse after taking this medication, as it is also for short-term prevention. Therefore, abstain from sex till you see your next period or use a barrier contraceptive to make sure you do not get pregnant. Contact your doctor to have a pregnancy test done if you miss your period for more than 1 week after taking this medication. Do not use this medication during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this contraceptive while breastfeeding. This oral contraceptive may interact with other drugs or substances, including anticonvulsants (such as phenytoin and carbamazepine), rifampicin, rifabutin, HIV medications (such as ritonavir and efavirenz), and antifungals (such as griseofulvin). Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, that you are taking before using Plan B Emergency Contraceptive to prevent potential drug interactions.

Take Plan B Emergency Contraceptive as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours. The sooner it's taken, the better it works, though it may still offer some protection if taken within to 5 days after unprotected sex. The recommended dose is typically a single 1.5 mg tablet. Swallow the tablet with or without food. If you vomit within two hours of taking it, take another dose. Please use it only once in the same menstrual cycle. Store the medication at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Plan B Emergency Contraceptive?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Plan B Emergency Contraceptive.