Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel
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Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs: Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel.
- Based on evidence, Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel are more effective when taken together.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Progestin and Progestin-containing Intrauterine System
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Ethinyl Estradiol + Levonorgestrel
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Click HereSummary
Levonorgestrel is used as an emergency contraceptive, which is a method to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is not intended for regular birth control use but is effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy when taken within 72 hours after intercourse.
Ethinyl estradiol is used in combination with other hormones like levonorgestrel in regular contraceptive pills to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual cramps, and manage acne.
Levonorgestrel works by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. It also thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and alters the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
Ethinyl estradiol works by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. It also thickens the cervical mucus to block sperm and alters the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
The usual dose of levonorgestrel for emergency contraception is a single 1.5 mg tablet taken orally as soon as possible within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. The effectiveness is higher the sooner it is taken.
Ethinyl estradiol is typically taken in combination contraceptive pills daily, following a 28-day cycle. This includes 21 days of active hormone pills and 7 days of inactive pills or no pills, during which a withdrawal bleed occurs.
Common side effects of levonorgestrel include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding. These effects are usually short-term and resolve on their own.
Common side effects of ethinyl estradiol include nausea, headache, and changes in menstrual flow. It may also cause breast tenderness and spotting between periods. These effects are generally mild and improve over time.
Levonorgestrel should not be used if you are already pregnant, as it will not terminate an existing pregnancy. It is considered safe during breastfeeding, but it is important to discuss with a healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Ethinyl estradiol is contraindicated in individuals with a history of blood clots, certain cancers, or liver disease. It may reduce milk supply during breastfeeding, so non-hormonal methods are often preferred. It should not be used during pregnancy.
Indications and Purpose
What is combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel used for?
Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel are primarily indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. Ethinyl estradiol, in combination with levonorgestrel, is used in regular contraceptive pills to provide ongoing birth control. Levonorgestrel alone is used as an emergency contraceptive to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Both medications are used to prevent pregnancy, but levonorgestrel is specifically for emergency situations, while the combination with ethinyl estradiol is for regular, long-term contraception.
How does combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel work?
Ethinyl estradiol is a synthetic form of estrogen that works by inhibiting ovulation, altering the uterine lining, and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. Levonorgestrel is a progestin that prevents the release of an egg from the ovary and also alters the uterine lining to prevent implantation. Together, they provide effective contraception by preventing ovulation and creating an environment that is not conducive to fertilization and implantation. Both substances work to prevent pregnancy, but they do so through slightly different mechanisms.
How effective is combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel?
The effectiveness of levonorgestrel as an emergency contraceptive is supported by studies showing it significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, with higher effectiveness the sooner it is taken. Ethinyl estradiol, in combination with levonorgestrel in regular contraceptive pills, has been proven effective in preventing pregnancy through consistent daily use, with a failure rate of less than 1% when used correctly. Both medications have been extensively studied and are widely used for their ability to prevent pregnancy, with levonorgestrel providing immediate, short-term prevention and ethinyl estradiol offering long-term, ongoing prevention.
How does one know if combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel is working?
The benefit of levonorgestrel as an emergency contraceptive is assessed by its ability to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, with effectiveness decreasing the longer the delay in taking it. Ethinyl estradiol, when used in combination with levonorgestrel in regular contraceptive pills, is measured by its ability to consistently prevent ovulation and thus prevent pregnancy over time. Both medications are assessed by their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, with levonorgestrel providing immediate, short-term prevention and ethinyl estradiol offering long-term, ongoing prevention.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel?
For levonorgestrel used as an emergency contraceptive, the usual dose is a single 1.5 mg tablet taken as soon as possible within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. Ethinyl estradiol, when used in combination contraceptive pills, is typically taken in a daily dose as prescribed, often in combination with levonorgestrel. The exact dosage of ethinyl estradiol varies depending on the specific contraceptive formulation. Both medications are used to prevent pregnancy, but levonorgestrel is for emergency use, while ethinyl estradiol is for regular contraceptive use.
How does one take combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel?
Levonorgestrel, when used as an emergency contraceptive, can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken as soon as possible within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. Ethinyl estradiol, in combination contraceptive pills, is typically taken daily at the same time each day, with or without food, to maintain consistent hormone levels. There are no specific food restrictions for either medication, but it is important to follow the prescribed schedule for regular contraceptives. Both medications require adherence to timing for maximum effectiveness.
For how long is combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel taken?
The combination of Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel is typically taken in a cycle of 28 days. This includes 21 days of taking the active pills containing the hormones, followed by 7 days of taking inactive pills or no pills at all, during which a menstrual-like withdrawal bleed occurs. This cycle is repeated each month. It's important to follow the specific instructions provided by a healthcare provider or the medication guide.
How long does it take for combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel to work?
Levonorgestrel, when used as an emergency contraceptive, should be taken as soon as possible within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. It works best the sooner it is taken, ideally within the first 24 hours. Ethinyl estradiol, often used in combination with levonorgestrel in regular contraceptive pills, works by preventing ovulation and requires consistent daily intake to be effective. The emergency use of levonorgestrel is immediate, while ethinyl estradiol's effectiveness is based on regular use. Both substances aim to prevent pregnancy, but levonorgestrel is used for immediate, emergency situations.
How does one store combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel?
Levonorgestrel does not require refrigeration and should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Ethinyl estradiol, when used in combination contraceptive pills, also does not require refrigeration and should be stored in a similar manner. Both medications should be kept in their original containers, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Proper storage ensures the effectiveness and safety of the medications, and both share common storage requirements to maintain their stability.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel?
Common side effects of levonorgestrel include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding. Ethinyl estradiol, when used in combination contraceptive pills, can cause similar side effects, including nausea, headache, and changes in menstrual flow. Both medications may cause breast tenderness and spotting between periods. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe abdominal pain, which requires immediate medical attention. Both substances share common side effects related to hormonal changes, but levonorgestrel's effects are typically short-term, while ethinyl estradiol's effects may persist with ongoing use.
Can I take combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel with other prescription drugs?
Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol can interact with certain prescription medications, such as anti-seizure drugs and antibiotics like rifampin, which may decrease their effectiveness by accelerating their metabolism. Efavirenz, used in HIV treatment, can also reduce the effectiveness of these contraceptives. Both medications share the risk of reduced contraceptive efficacy when taken with these drugs, highlighting the need for alternative or additional contraceptive methods when using interacting medications. It is crucial to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken to manage potential interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel with vitamins or supplements?
Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol can interact with certain herbal supplements, such as St. John's wort, which may reduce their effectiveness by increasing the breakdown of these hormones in the body. There are no specific interactions with vitamins, but it is always advisable to inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking. Both medications share the potential for reduced effectiveness when taken with certain supplements, emphasizing the importance of discussing all supplements with a healthcare provider to ensure optimal contraceptive efficacy.
Can I take combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel if I am pregnant?
Levonorgestrel should not be used during pregnancy, as it is intended to prevent pregnancy and will not terminate an existing one. Ethinyl estradiol, in combination contraceptives, is also not recommended during pregnancy, as it is unnecessary and may pose risks to the developing fetus. Both medications are contraindicated during pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of confirming non-pregnancy status before use. If pregnancy occurs while using these medications, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate guidance and care.
Can I take combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel while breastfeeding?
Levonorgestrel is considered safe for use during breastfeeding, as it does not significantly affect milk production or infant health. Ethinyl estradiol, when used in combination contraceptives, may reduce milk supply, especially in the early postpartum period. Both medications are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but non-hormonal methods or progestin-only options like levonorgestrel are often preferred to avoid potential impacts on milk production. It is important for breastfeeding mothers to discuss contraceptive options with their healthcare provider to choose the safest and most effective method.
Who should avoid taking combination of Ethinyl estradiol and Levonorgestrel?
Levonorgestrel should not be used if you are already pregnant, as it will not terminate an existing pregnancy. Ethinyl estradiol, in combination contraceptives, is contraindicated in individuals with a history of blood clots, certain cancers, or liver disease. Both medications should be used with caution in individuals with a history of cardiovascular issues. It is important to inform healthcare providers of any medical conditions or allergies before using these medications. Both substances share the need for careful consideration of medical history to avoid adverse effects and ensure safe use.
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