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Levlen (Ethinyl Estradiol Levonorgestrel) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Levlen?

Levlen is a combined oral contraceptive pill that belongs to the hormonal birth-control class. It contains .03 mg ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen) and .15 mg levonorgestrel (a progestogen). The pill is approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and is marketed in tablet form for preventing pregnancy.

Who Should Use Levlen?

• Women of reproductive age seeking reliable, reversible contraception
• Individuals who prefer a daily oral regimen over long-acting methods
• Those without contraindications such as a history of blood clots, uncontrolled hypertension, or certain hormone-sensitive cancers

How Does It Work?

Levlen prevents ovulation by delivering synthetic estrogen and progestogen that signal the brain to stop the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Without these signals, the ovary does not release an egg, and the thickened cervical mucus makes it harder for sperm to reach any egg that might be released. The mechanism is comparable to “pressing the brakes” on the menstrual cycle.

Why Choose Levlen?

• Proven efficacy: When taken correctly, Levlen is over 99 % effective at preventing pregnancy.
• Predictable bleeding pattern: Many users experience lighter, more regular periods.
• Cost-effective: Generic versions of the same active ingredients are available, offering a lower-price option with identical therapeutic effect.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• One tablet daily, containing .03 mg ethinyl estradiol / .15 mg levonorgestrel.

How to Take

• Take the tablet at the same time each day, with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.

Missed Dose

• If you are less than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember and continue with the regular schedule.
• If you are more than 12 hours late, take the missed tablet immediately, then take the next tablet at the usual time (this may mean taking two tablets in one day). Use a backup contraception method for the next 7 days.

Overdose

• If you suspect an overdose, seek urgent medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or unusually heavy bleeding.

Special Populations

• Elderly: Not applicable; pill is intended for women of reproductive age.
• Children/Adolescents: Use only after careful assessment of health status.
• Liver disease: Avoid if you have severe hepatic impairment.
• Renal impairment: No dose adjustment needed for mild to moderate kidney disease.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Alcohol: Moderate consumption does not affect efficacy, but excessive intake can increase side-effects such as nausea.
• Caffeine: No interaction, but high caffeine intake may worsen breast tenderness.
• Grapefruit: Small amounts are safe; avoid large quantities as they can alter hormone metabolism.
• Smoking: If you are over 35 years old, smoking significantly raises the risk of blood clots; discuss alternatives with a healthcare professional.

Precautions and Warnings

• Do not start Levlen if you have a history of deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or stroke.
• Inform your provider about migraines with aura, uncontrolled High Blood Pressure, or Diabetes with vascular complications.
• Levlen does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use condoms for STI prevention.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Spotting between periods

Less Common Side Effects

• Mood changes
• Weight fluctuation
• Decreased libido

Serious Side Effects (seek medical help immediately)

• Severe abdominal Pain or swelling of the legs (possible blood clot)
• Chest pain or shortness of breath (possible pulmonary embolism)
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding after 3 months of use

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Women with known allergy to ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel, or any tablet components
• Those with active liver disease or liver tumors
• Individuals with a history of hormone-dependent cancers (e.g., breast, ovarian)
• Women who are pregnant or suspect they might be pregnant

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in the original blister pack until use.
• Store at 15-30 °C (59-86 °F); protect from excess heat and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Levlen Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does a pack of Levlen last?

One strip contains 21 active tablets; a full pack typically includes 28 tablets (21 active + 7 placebo), covering a 28-day cycle.

Can I take Levlen while breastfeeding?

Hormonal contraceptives are generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but a progestogen-only method may be preferred in the first six weeks postpartum.

Will Levlen affect my menstrual cramps?

Many users report lighter, less painful periods, although some may experience increased cramping initially.

Does Levlen cause weight gain?

Clinical studies show no significant direct link between combined oral contraceptives and long-term weight gain.

Can I start Levlen at any point in my cycle?

Yes. You may begin on the first day of your period, the first Sunday after your period starts, or use a “quick-start” method (take the first tablet today and use backup contraception for 7 days).

Is it safe to travel across time zones while on Levlen?

Maintain the same daily dosing time, adjusting for local time zones as needed to keep the interval consistent (approximately 24 hours).

What should I do if I experience severe headaches?

Seek medical evaluation promptly, as this could indicate a serious vascular event.

Can I use Levlen and an over-the-counter pain reliever together?

Yes. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken as needed; they do not interfere with contraceptive efficacy.

Glossary

• Combined oral contraceptive (COC): A pill that contains both estrogen and progestogen to prevent pregnancy.
• Ovulation: The release of an egg from the ovary; the primary target for most hormonal contraceptives.
• Progestogen-only method: A contraceptive that contains only a synthetic form of Progesterone, often used when estrogen is contraindicated.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. All medication use, including off-label considerations, should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider. Our service offers convenient access to approved medicines; however, the ultimate responsibility for safe and appropriate use rests with the reader.