Published: 27 February 2014
Safety Information
Early Warning System - Monitoring Communication
Effectiveness of emergency contraception may be reduced in women weighing more than 70kg
27 February 2014
Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg tablet (or 2 x 0.75 mg tablets) is used as an oral emergency contraceptive within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse.
Recent publications have indicated that levonorgestrel may not be effective for women who weigh more than 70 kg.
Irrespective of weight, levonorgestrel may not prevent pregnancy in every case. The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more likely it is that it will work.
Products Affected (Currently Available)
| Product name | Sponsor |
|---|---|
| Next Choice | Actavis New Zealand Limited |
| Next Choice Arrow | Actavis New Zealand Limited |
| Postinor-1 | REX Medical Ltd |
Additional Information
The overall benefit-risk balance of levonorgestrel remains positive.
Women are advised to use emergency contraception as soon as possible and follow the instructions of their healthcare professional.
Advice on how to take this medicine and possible side effects can be found in the consumer medicine information (CMI) and data sheet for levonorgestrel.
Search for consumer medicine information
Regulator Actions
Medsafe, in conjunction with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (Australia), is continuing to review this safety concern and will provide further information once this review is complete.
Reporting
Consumers and healthcare professionals are encouraged to send reports of suspected adverse reactions to the Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring (CARM).
Medsafe cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. If you have any concerns about a medicine you are taking Medsafe encourages you to talk to your healthcare professional.
