What is Postinor (Levonorgestrel) used for?

Postinor-1 (Levonorgestrel) is an emergency contraceptive that can be used after unprotected sex or where a contraceptive method has failed. This type of contraception is often called 'the morning-after pill'.

Postinor-1 prevents over 80% of expected pregnancies. It will not prevent a pregnancy in every instance, but the tablet is more effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex. It is better to take it within 12 hours rather than delay until the third day. Postinor-1 works by stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg, preventing sperm from fertilising any egg you may have already released, or stopping a fertilised egg from attaching itself to your womb lining. So Postinor-1 stops a pregnancy before it is established. It does not work if you are already pregnant.

How should I use Postinor (Levonorgestrel)?

Take the tablet as soon as possible preferably within 12 hours but no later than 72 hours after you have had unprotected sex. Swallow the tablet whole, with a glass of water. The tablet works better the sooner you take it after having unprotected sex.

If you are already using a regular method of contraception such as the contraceptive pill, you can continue to take this at your regular times.

What are the side effects of Postinor (Levonorgestrel)?

• vomiting
• abnormal period
• irregular bleeding or spotting
• tender breasts
• headaches
• lower abdominal pain
• diarrhoea
• feel dizzy
• feel tired

Please Note

Tell your physician, nurse or pharmacist immediately if you are sick within 3 hours after taking this medicine, or if you have a disease of the small bowel that interferes with the absorption of your food as the active ingredient of Postinor-1 may not have been completely absorbed. You should contact your physician, nurse or pharmacist who may need to give you another course of treatment. Always tell your physician if you are breast-feeding.