Levonorgestrel 1500mcg Emergency Contraceptive Pill "Morning After" (Brand May Vary)

Buy levonorgestrel 1500mcg pill

The levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive pill is a single-dose tablet taken after unprotected sex to help prevent pregnancy. It should be taken as soon as possible, within 72 hours, for the best effectiveness.

It's a widely used emergency contraception option in the UK. It works by delaying ovulation, meaning an egg is not released for fertilisation.

What is levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone used in emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.

Levonorgestrel belongs to a group of medicines called progestogens, which mimic the hormone progesterone. Altering hormone levels helps prevent the release of an egg from the ovary.

It's commonly supplied as a single 1500mcg tablet, making it easy to take as a one-off dose.

How quickly do you need to use a levonorgestrel morning-after pill?

Levonorgestrel should be taken as soon as possible and within 72 hours (three days) after unprotected sex. It's most effective when taken within 24 hours.

How does levonorgestrel 1500mcg work?

Levonorgestrel works by delaying or preventing ovulation so that no egg is released for fertilisation. It may also make it harder for sperm to reach an egg.

It does not terminate an existing pregnancy and will not work if implantation has already occurred.

How long does levonorgestrel take to work?

Levonorgestrel begins working soon after it's taken by affecting hormone levels and delaying ovulation. Its effects occur within hours, though timing may vary depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle.

How long does levonorgestrel 1500mcg remain in your body?

The body processes levonorgestrel within a few days, although its hormonal effects may last longer.

How effective is the levonorgestrel pill?

Levonorgestrel is around 95% effective at preventing pregnancy if taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex. Its effectiveness falls to 85% if taken 25-48 hours after sex, and then to 58% between 49-72 hours.

You can find out more about how effective the morning after pill is with our guide.

How do you know levonorgestrel has worked?

You won't know immediately if levonorgestrel has worked. Your next period should arrive at the usual time, although it may be slightly earlier or later.

If your period is more than seven days late, unusually light or heavy, you should take a pregnancy test and seek medical advice.

Does levonorgestrel work after ovulation?

Levonorgestrel is less effective after ovulation has already occurred because it mainly works by delaying ovulation. If ovulation has already happened, alternative emergency contraception may be more appropriate.

How to use levonorgestrel tablets

Levonorgestrel is taken as a single 1500mcg tablet. If you have a BMI over 26, or weigh more than 70kg, you should speak to a healthcare professional to discuss the most suitable option for your body. 

1. 1. Take the tablet(s) as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
2. 2. Swallow whole with water.
3. 3. If you are sick within three hours, you may need to take another dose.

You should continue to use regular contraception after you’ve taken your levonorgestrel tablet.

Potential levonorgestrel side effects

Most people tolerate levonorgestrel well, but some may experience mild side effects.

Common side effects include:

• nausea
• headache
• fatigue
• dizziness
• breast tenderness
• changes to your next period

For help managing your morning after pill side effects, read our expert guide.

Seek urgent medical help if you experience

• Severe abdominal pain or shoulder tip pain (possible ectopic pregnancy).
• Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing).

How long do levonorgestrel side effects last?

Side effects are usually short-lived and resolve within a few days. Changes to your menstrual cycle may last until your next period.

When should you not use the levonorgestrel morning-after pill?

Levonorgestrel may not be suitable if you:

• are already pregnant
• have severe liver disease
• have certain medical conditions affecting absorption

Always speak to a healthcare professional if unsure.

Do levonorgestrel tablets interact with other medications?

Some medicines can reduce the effectiveness of levonorgestrel, including:

• certain epilepsy medicines
• HIV treatments
• rifampicin (antibiotic)
• St John’s Wort

These medicines may affect how levonorgestrel is processed in the body. You should always speak to a healthcare professional if unsure.

Levonorgestrel and breastfeeding

Levonorgestrel can generally be used while breastfeeding.

The NHS advises that only small amounts pass into breast milk, and it's considered safe. Some guidance suggests avoiding breastfeeding for eight hours after taking the tablet to minimise infant exposure.

How to store levonorgestrel tablets

Store levonorgestrel tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, ideally between 15-30°C. Protect the tablets from light, moisture, and excessive heat. Keep them out of reach of children, in a dry place like a drawer or cabinet, not in the bathroom.

Levonorgestrel vs ellaOne morning-after pill

Both options are effective forms of emergency contraception but ellaOne may be more suitable if more time has passed since unprotected sex.

Frequently asked questions about the levonorgestrel pill

Is levonorgestrel the same as Levonelle?

Yes. Levonelle is a branded version of levonorgestrel emergency contraception containing the same active ingredient.

Can you take levonorgestrel at the same time as the contraceptive pill?

Yes. You can usually continue or restart your regular contraceptive pill after taking levonorgestrel, but additional contraception (like condoms) may be needed for a short time.

How many levonorgestrel pills should I take?

You should take one 1500mcg tablet as a single dose. If you weigh more than 70kg or have a BMI over 26, you should speak to a healthcare professional to find the best option for you. Do not take more than recommended unless advised by a healthcare professional.

How long after taking levonorgestrel can I breastfeed?

You can breastfeed as normal after taking levonorgestrel, although some guidance recommends waiting around eight hours before breastfeeding to reduce exposure.

When in my cycle can I take levonorgestrel?

Levonorgestrel can be taken at any point in your menstrual cycle after unprotected sex. However, it's most effective before ovulation occurs.

Can levonorgestrel cause ectopic pregnancy?

Levonorgestrel does not cause ectopic pregnancy, but if it fails and pregnancy occurs, there is a small risk. Seek medical advice if you have severe abdominal pain.

How long does levonorgestrel delay ovulation?

Levonorgestrel delays ovulation by altering hormone levels, but the exact timing varies depending on your cycle.

Can levonorgestrel cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect. Any short-term changes are usually temporary and related to hormonal fluctuations.

Can you take levonorgestrel on Mounjaro?

There is limited evidence on interactions. You should consult a healthcare professional before combining Mounjaro with levonorgestrel.

How much is the emergency contraceptive pill?

Prices vary depending on the pharmacy and whether the product is purchased privately or accessed through NHS services. Some people may be able to get levonorgestrel through the Free NHS Contraception Service, including with Chemist4U.

Sources

• Emergency contraception. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 24 March 2026].
• Levonorgestrel. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 24 March 2026].