Levonorgestrel (LNG) is a synthetic progestogen similar to [Progesterone] used in contraception and hormone therapy.[A181988,T659] Also known as Plan B, it is used as a single agent in emergency contraception, and as a hormonal contraceptive released from an intrauterine device, commonly referred to as an IUD. Some of these devices are known as Jaydess, Kyleena, and Mirena. A subdermal implant of levonorgestrel that slowly releases the hormone over a long-term period is also available.[L7823] In addition to the above uses, levonorgestrel is used as a component of long-term combination contraceptives.[A181991,L7760,L7778] Globally, levonorgestrel is the most commonly used emergency contraceptive. It was initially granted FDA approval in 1982 and was the first emergency contraceptive containing only progesterone, showing high levels of efficacy and a lack of estrogenic adverse effects when compared to older emergency contraceptive regimens.[A181976,A181994,L7760]
Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol and Ethinyl Estradiol
Stix Restart
Portia
SheWise
BionaFem
Jaimiess
Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradoil
Vienva
Simpesse
Mirena
Balcoltra
Fem Choice morning after
Next Choice
Lo Simpesse
AfterPill
React
Min-ovral 21 Tab
Triquilar 28
Nordette
Empowered Choice
Dolishale
Audrina 28
Morning After Pill
Indication
**Emergency contraception** Levonorgestrel, in the single-agent emergency contraceptive form, is indicated for the prevention of pregnancy after the confirmed or suspected failure of contraception methods or following unprotected intercourse. It is distributed by prescription for patients under 17, and over the counter for those above this age.[L7760] This levonorgestrel-only form of contraception is not indicated for regular contraception and must be taken as soon as possible within 72 hours after intercourse.[A181976,L7760] It has shown a lower efficacy when it is used off label within 96 hours.[T659] **Long-term contraception or nonemergency contraception** In addition to the above indication in emergency contraception, levonorgestrel is combined with other contraceptives in contraceptive formulations designed for regular use, for example with ethinyl estradiol.[L7766] It is used in various hormone-releasing intrauterine devices for long-term contraception ranging for a duration of 3-5 years.[L7778,L7781,L7787] Product labeling for Mirena specifically mentions that it is recommended in women who have had at least 1 child and can be indicated for the prevention of pregnancy for up to 8 years.[L7778,L42950] A subdermal implant is also available for the prevention of pregnancy for up to 5 years.[L7823] **Hormone therapy and off-label uses** Levonorgestrel is prescribed in combination with estradiol as hormone therapy during menopause to manage vasomotor symptoms and to prevent osteoporosis.[L7805]Off-label, levonorgestrel may be used to treat menorrhagia, endometrial hyperplasia, and endometriosis.[T659]
Categories
Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Combination Contraceptives (with Estrogen and derivatives)
Contraceptive Agents, Female
Contraceptive Agents, Hormonal
Contraceptives, Oral
Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic
Contraceptives, Postcoital
Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Substrates
Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A4 Substrates
Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A5 Substrates
Cytochrome P-450 Substrates
Fused-Ring Compounds
Genito Urinary System and Sex Hormones
Hormonal Contraceptives for Systemic Use
Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents
Inhibit Ovum Fertilization
Norpregnanes
Norpregnenes
Norsteroids
Progestin Contraceptives
Progestin-containing Intrauterine Device
Progestins
Progestogens and Estrogens, Sequential Preparations
Drug Info/Drug Targets: DrugBank 3.0: a comprehensive resource for 'omics' research on drugs. Knox C, Law V, Jewison
T, Liu P, Ly S, Frolkis A, Pon A, Banco K, Mak C, Neveu V, Djoumbou Y, Eisner R, Guo AC, Wishart DS.
Nucleic Acids Res. 2011 Jan; 39 (Database issue):D1035-41. | PMID:21059682
