×
MedSchool: Ace Your OSCEsThe Medical Company
 
 
 
 
 
GET - On the App Store
View
Drug Guide
 
 

Levonorgestrel

 
Bookmark
 View Topic Outline
  •  
    Oral
    Levonorgestrel
    Microlut 

  • Mechanism of Action

  • Thickens cervical mucus, resulting in reduced sperm penetration through the cervix. Less of an effect on follicular development and prevention of ovulation than combined contraceptives.

  • Pharmacology

  • Must be taken at the same time every day, as its mechanism of action relies on its effect on vaginal mucus.  If not taken within three hours of the normal time the dose should be skipped and another form of contraception (condoms / diaphragm) should be used for 48 hours.

Clinical Use

  • Indications
  • Contraception in patients intolerant of combined oral contraceptives
  • Contraception in women who are breastfeeding
  • Contraindications
  • Pregnancy
  • Past DVT / PE
  • Ischaemic heart disease
  • Past stroke / TIA
  • Breast cancer within the past five years
  • Ischaemic heart disease
  • Adverse Effects
  • Headache
  • Breast pain
  • Nausea / vomiting / bdominal pain
  • Dizziness
  • Depression
  • Irregular bleeding
  • Acne
Want more info like this?
  • Your electronic clinical medicine handbook
  • Guides to help pass your exams
  • Tools every medical student needs
  • Quick diagrams to have the answers, fast
  • Quizzes to test your knowledge
Sign Up Now
   
 
 

Snapshot: Initialising...