What Is Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol?

Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol is a medication prescribed to women to prevent pregnancy. This birth control pill is a combination of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. It works by preventing an egg from being released in the process of ovulation. Secondarily, this pill also helps prevent fertilization by thickening the fluid in the vagina to impede sperm from reaching the egg. Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol also works in a third way: it interferes with an egg's attachment to the uterine lining, in the event that it does become fertilized.

Patients must be careful to take this pill at the same time every day for maximum efficacy. When a patient first begins to take this pill, she should take it on the first day of her period unless otherwise directed by her physician. Those who experience stomach upset with a dose should take it after a meal or before going to sleep, as long as these dosage times remain consistent. Women who suffer from diarrhea or vomiting within four hours of a dosage should use a barrier method of birth control, because the pill may not be as effective.

It is normal for women to cease to have regular menstrual periods while taking this birth control pill. The patient's body may take several months to adjust, during which time she is likely to experience irregular or spotty vaginal bleeding. Rarely, heavy vaginal bleeding may occur, which should be reported to the doctor if it lasts longer than a week or is very heavy.

Some side effects may occur while using levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, which should be reported to a physician if they become severe. Women may experience tenderness or enlargement of the breasts, either worsening or improving acne, and increased vaginal fluids. Nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramping or bloating have also been reported. Some patients may notice a headache and vaginal irritation or discomfort.

More serious side effects are unlikely, but require immediate medical care. Some patients have reported dark patches on the skin, problems wearing contact lenses, and unusual weight changes. Rarely, slurred speech, lack of coordination, and weakness on one side of the body have occurred. Serious side effects may also include coughing up blood, sudden dizziness or fainting, and pain or swelling in the calf or groin.

Before taking levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol, patients must disclose their other medical conditions, medications, and supplements. In addition, patients must not smoke or use other tobacco products while taking it, because this could increase the risk of heart problems, stroke, and blood clots. This medicine should never be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those who have diabetes should be aware that it can interfere with blood sugar levels. Levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol may be contraindicated for use by those who have cancer, liver problems, or heart problems. It may interact with other medications, including antifungals, vitamin C, and aromatase inhibitors.