Levora (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel)
Levora® is a combination oral contraceptive pill (OCP) that is intended to provide effective pregnancy prevention. Levora®, which contains Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel, two synthetic hormones that imitate estrogen and progesterone, successfully suppresses ovulation, changes the uterine lining, and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm entry.
Why Choose Levora (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel)?
- Highly Effective: When taken as instructed, Levora prevents pregnancy by more than 99%.
- Regulates Menstrual Cycle: Assists in the regulation of menstrual cycles, lowering the frequency of irregular periods.
- Minimizes menstrual symptoms: May alleviate menstruation discomfort, excessive bleeding, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
How to Use Levora (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel)?
- First-time users, or those switching from another medication: Begin taking Levora on the first Sunday after your period starts or on the first day of your period. If you start on the first day of your cycle, you don’t have to use backup birth control. If you start on a different day, use an extra non-hormonal birth control technique (such as condoms) for the first seven days.
- After childbirth or miscarriage: Follow your doctor’s advice about when to begin. Women who are not breastfeeding are often recommended to begin taking the pill 4 to 6 weeks after giving birth to lower their risk of blood clots.
- Take one pill daily, at the same time. Consistency is essential for keeping the tablet effective and lowering the risk of unexpected bleeding.
- The Levora pack has 28 pills: 21 active hormone pills and 7 placebo pills. The inactive pills are designed to help you maintain the habit of taking a pill every day while also allowing for a withdrawal bleed that mimics your natural period.
Important Safety Information about Levora
- Do not take Levora® if you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant.
- Smoking raises the risk of significant cardiovascular adverse effects, particularly in women over 35.
- Levora® does not prevent HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Fact Table for Levora
Facts | Details |
Active Ingredients | Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel |
Brand Name(s) | Levora |
Drug Class | Combination Oral Contraceptive |
FDA Approval | Yes |
Indications | Prevention of pregnancy, Management of menstrual cycle disorders, Possible reduction in acne |
Dosage Form | Oral tablet |
Dosage | 0.15 mg of Levonorgestrel and 0.03 mg of Ethinyl Estradiol (Standard; variations may exist based on brand formulation) |
Packaging | Typically 28-day cycle packs, including 21 active pills and 7 inert pills for a withdrawal bleed |
How to Take | One pill taken orally at the same time each day, with or without food. Start on the first day of menstrual bleeding for immediate protection, or on the first Sunday after the onset of menstrual bleeding. |
Missed Dose Instructions | Varies depending on the week of the cycle during which pills are missed. Generally, take the missed pill as soon as remembered, and use backup contraception if two or more pills are missed consecutively. |
Common Side Effects | Nausea, Breast tenderness, Headaches, Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods, Mood changes |
Contraindications | History of blood clots, certain cancers, uncontrolled high blood pressure, smoking over the age of 35, liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding |
Interactions | Certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, and HIV medications may decrease effectiveness or increase side effects. |
Precautions | Discuss with a healthcare provider if planning surgery, have diabetes or depression, smoke, or if over 35 years old. |
Effectiveness | Over 99% effective with perfect use, around 91% effective with typical use |
STI Protection | No protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs); use condoms for STI prevention. |
Common Side Effects of Levora
Like all medications, Levora (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods
- Mood changes
If you experience any of these side effects or others, make sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Levora (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel)?
You can order Levora (Ethinyl Estradiol/Levonorgestrel) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.