Levonorgestrel

Contraceptive hormone (progestogen)
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Levonorgestrel is a contraceptive hormone (progestogen) found in 4 medicines sold in India, such as Unwanted 72, i-pill, Ovral L. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

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.

Brands of Levonorgestrel (2)

i-pillUnwanted 72

Combination medicines that contain Levonorgestrel (2)

Mala-DOvral L

Common questions

What is Levonorgestrel 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 does Levonorgestrel work?

A progestogen hormone used in emergency contraception, the hormonal coil and some combined pills.

How should I take Levonorgestrel?

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.

What are the side effects of Levonorgestrel?

Common: Nausea, headache, tiredness, irregular bleeding, next period early or late. Get help straight away for: Severe lower tummy pain (possible ectopic pregnancy), period more than 7 days late (take a pregnancy test).

Does Levonorgestrel interact with other medicines?

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.

Is Levonorgestrel safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

It does not harm an existing pregnancy. Acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Levonorgestrel need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Levonorgestrel?

i-pill, Mala-D, Ovral L, Unwanted 72.

Sources and further reading

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.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.