Levonorgestrel: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Facts extracted from current FDA product labeling for Levonorgestrel. Educational only — not medical advice.
Reported adverse reactions
| Reaction | Highest frequency reported* |
|---|---|
| Nausea | 23.1% |
| Abdominal pain | 17.6% |
| Fatigue | 16.9% |
| Headache | 16.8% |
| Heavier menstrual bleeding | 13.8% |
| Lighter menstrual bleeding | 12.5% |
| Dizziness | 11.2% |
| Breast tenderness | 10.7% |
| Other complaints | 9.7% |
| Vomiting | 5.6% |
| Diarrhea | 5% |
*Highest percentage across placebo-controlled trial tables summarized in current labeling.
Labeled uses
Levonorgestrel tablets are a prescription-only emergency contraceptive, for women age 17 and younger, that can be used to prevent pregnancy following unprotected intercourse or a known or suspected contraceptive failure. This product is not approved for nonprescription use. To obtain optimal efficacy, the first tablet should be taken as soon as possible within 72 hours of intercourse. The second tablet must be taken 12 hours later.
Source: FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (set eb0e7e5e…). Not affiliated with FDA or NIH.
Medical disclaimer: Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about any medication.