| name | Plan B One-Step (Levonorgestrel) |
| classification | Emergency Contraceptive |
| pharmacokinetics | Levonorgestrel is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within a few hours. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver. The exact half-life varies slightly, but is generally around 30 minutes to a few hours. |
| suggested dosage | A single 1.5 mg tablet taken as soon as possible and ideally within 72 hours after unprotected sex. A second dose is not necessary. |
| indications | Used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. May be used to prevent pregnancy following instances of sexual assault. |
| safety in pregnancy | Not applicable (as it is used to *prevent* pregnancy, not treat existing pregnancy). |
| safety in breastfeeding | Levonorgestrel is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding. However, some studies have shown a small impact on milk production, usually temporary. Monitor for minor changes in milk volume. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Vomiting | | 3 | Headache | | 4 | Fatigue | | 5 | Abdominal pain | | 6 | Menstrual irregularities (e.g., delayed or heavier bleeding) | | 7 | Breast tenderness | | 8 | Lightheadedness |
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| alternatives | | 1 | | name | Ella | | description | Contains ulipristal acetate. Generally considered to be more effective than levonorgestrel, particularly closer to the time of ovulation. May cause more side effects. |
| | 2 | | name | Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) | | description | Long-acting emergency contraceptive; Highly effective but must be inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse by a medical professional. Has a longer-lasting effect. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel or any components of the formulation. | | 2 | Severe liver disease. |
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| interactions | | 1 | Limited interactions documented. Some medications known to reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives should be considered. Consult a healthcare professional if concerned. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | May not be completely effective if taken after ovulation. May cause irregular bleeding patterns in some individuals. | | 2 | Not a substitute for regular contraception. | | 3 | If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking the medication, a repeat dose might be necessary. | | 4 | Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). | | 5 | Consult a healthcare professional if concerns exist related to the dosage or side effects. In cases of significant side effects, seek immediate medical attention. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Availability and pricing varies by location. Consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider for details. | | 2 | Plan B is generally available over-the-counter (OTC) in many places. | | 3 | Patient age and weight are not direct factors in determining the effectiveness or safety of Plan B. It is, however, important to discuss any existing medical conditions with a healthcare provider. | | 4 | Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. |
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| patient profile | |
