| name | Emergency Contraception (various options) |
| Classification | Hormonal Contraceptives (various formulations) |
| Pharmacokinetics | The pharmacokinetics of emergency contraception vary depending on the specific formulation. Generally, these medications are rapidly absorbed and distributed. Elimination half-lives vary and some formulations are designed to have a more rapid clearance. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage varies depending on the specific method of emergency contraception. Consult with a healthcare professional for specific instructions. |
| indications | Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. It's most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, preferably within 72 hours, but some methods can be taken up to 120 hours after. It is not for routine birth control. |
| safety in pregnancy | Not applicable. Emergency contraception is intended to prevent pregnancy. Using it during an established pregnancy is not indicated and is irrelevant |
| safety in breastfeeding | Generally considered safe during breastfeeding. However, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on individual circumstances. Some formulations may have a slightly increased risk of affecting milk production or infant health, but this is often minor and temporary. |
| side effects | Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, menstrual irregularities (e.g., delayed or heavier periods), and dizziness. These are typically mild and temporary. |
| alternatives | | 1 | | | 2 | | alternative name | Ulipristal acetate | | notes | Available as a single-dose pill and may be more effective than levonorgestrel in some cases. |
| | 3 | | alternative name | Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) | | notes | Highly effective but must be inserted by a healthcare professional within 5 days of unprotected intercourse. |
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| contraindications | Known hypersensitivity to any component of the medication. Do not use if you suspect you are already pregnant. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any significant pre-existing medical conditions, such as liver disease or certain bleeding disorders, and discuss risks versus benefits in a specific context of a patient's history. |
| interactions | Some medications may potentially interact with emergency contraception. Consult with a healthcare professional about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. |
| warnings and precautions | Do not use this as a routine method of birth control. It is a back-up method. Some formulations may interact with other medications. Follow dosage instructions carefully. Contact a healthcare professional if you have ongoing or worsening symptoms after taking emergency contraception. |
| additional informations | | 1 | Emergency contraception is most effective when used promptly. | | 2 | It is not abortion-inducing, but may interfere with implantation. If it is not effective, the risk of pregnancy remains. | | 3 | The effectiveness and potential side effects of emergency contraception may vary among individuals. | | 4 | Follow up with your doctor about your period to ensure the method was effective. |
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