Unwanted 72
Unwanted 72 is a tablet made by Mankind that contains Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg. Levonorgestrel is a contraceptive hormone (progestogen): in a single 1.5 mg dose it is an emergency contraceptive, taken as soon as possible (within 72 hours) after unprotected sex. In low daily doses with ethinylestradiol it is a regular birth-control pill.
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Levonorgestrel | 1.5 mg |
What it is used for
In a single 1.5 mg dose it is an emergency contraceptive, taken as soon as possible (within 72 hours) after unprotected sex. In low daily doses with ethinylestradiol it is a regular birth-control pill.
How it works
A progestogen hormone used in emergency contraception, the hormonal coil and some combined pills.
How to take it
Emergency pill: one 1.5 mg tablet as soon as possible, within 72 hours of unprotected sex (sooner works better). If you vomit within 3 hours, take another. It does not protect against later sex in the same cycle.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Irregular bleeding
- Next period early or late
Get medical help straight away if
- Severe lower tummy pain (possible ectopic pregnancy)
- Period more than 7 days late (take a pregnancy test)
Be careful
Emergency pills are not for regular use. Contraceptive pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Other medicines and interactions
Enzyme-inducing medicines (rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, efavirenz, St John's wort) make it less effective; a double dose or a copper coil may be advised.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
It does not harm an existing pregnancy. Acceptable while breastfeeding.
Same composition, other brands (1)
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching brands.
Common questions
What is Unwanted 72?
Unwanted 72 is a tablet by Mankind containing Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg.
What is Unwanted 72 used for?
In a single 1.5 mg dose it is an emergency contraceptive, taken as soon as possible (within 72 hours) after unprotected sex. In low daily doses with ethinylestradiol it is a regular birth-control pill.
How should I take Unwanted 72?
Emergency pill: one 1.5 mg tablet as soon as possible, within 72 hours of unprotected sex (sooner works better). If you vomit within 3 hours, take another. It does not protect against later sex in the same cycle. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Unwanted 72?
Common side effects include: Nausea, headache, tiredness, irregular bleeding, next period early or late. Get medical help straight away for: Severe lower tummy pain (possible ectopic pregnancy), period more than 7 days late (take a pregnancy test).
Does Unwanted 72 need a prescription?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Can I take Unwanted 72 in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
It does not harm an existing pregnancy. Acceptable while breastfeeding.
What are the substitutes for Unwanted 72?
Brands with the same composition: i-pill. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching.
Sources and further reading
- Levonorgestrel: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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