Pregnon

The drug Pregnon contains the active ingredient Levonorgestrel — a synthetic analog of the female hormone progesterone. It affects ovulation processes and prepares the uterine lining so that a fertilized egg cannot attach.

Depending on the form, Pregnon contains:

• Tablets — 0.75 mg of Levonorgestrel in each.

• Intrauterine device — provides continuous release of Levonorgestrel at a rate of about 14 mcg per day.

Levonorgestrel acts quickly and effectively, especially if taken as soon as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse.

Pregnon is available in two forms — for emergency and long-term contraception. The choice depends on the situation and the woman's preferences.

• Tablets of 0.75 mg — used as an emergency contraceptive. One package contains two tablets. They are convenient to take shortly after unprotected sexual intercourse.

• Intrauterine device — inserted into the uterus by a doctor and provides a contraceptive effect for up to 5 years. It steadily releases small doses of Levonorgestrel, suppressing ovulation and changing the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to move.

Both forms work with the same active ingredient but differ in the speed of onset and duration of effect.

Pregnon is used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It is prescribed in two cases:

• Emergency contraception — after unprotected sexual intercourse or in case of failure of the primary method (for example, condom breakage).

• Long-term contraception — when using an intrauterine device with Levonorgestrel.

It is important to understand that Pregnon does not terminate an already established pregnancy and is not used as an abortion method. It only works until the moment of implantation of the egg in the uterine lining.

Emergency contraception (tablets):

• The first tablet should be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.

• The second tablet — 12 hours after the first.

The earlier you start taking it, the higher the effectiveness. If delayed beyond 72 hours, the contraceptive effect is significantly reduced.

Long-term contraception (intrauterine device):

• Inserted by a doctor inside the uterine cavity.

• Provides protection against pregnancy for up to 5 years.

• Average Levonorgestrel release rate — about 14 mcg per day.

The choice of method depends on the situation: tablets — for single cases, IUD — for long-term protection. In any case, it is important to consult with a doctor beforehand.

Before using Pregnon, it is important to ensure that the patient has no contraindications. Some conditions make the use of the drug unsafe.

• Pregnancy — the drug is not intended to terminate an already established pregnancy and may be harmful to the fetus.

• Hypersensitivity to components — if there has been an allergic reaction to Levonorgestrel or auxiliary substances previously, use is contraindicated.

In case of doubt (for example, if there is a delay in menstruation), it is recommended to take a pregnancy test before starting treatment.

Pregnon is not a regular contraceptive. It is used in emergency situations when other methods were not used or failed.

• Tablets are not intended for regular use. Frequent intake can lead to hormonal disruptions and reduced effectiveness.

• The IUD requires professional insertion and regular monitoring. If the device is positioned incorrectly, effectiveness is reduced.

• Women with menstrual irregularities or chronic diseases of the reproductive system should consult a doctor beforehand. If severe pain, bleeding, or menstrual delay occurs after taking the drug, medical examination is necessary.

Levonorgestrel, the active ingredient in Pregnon, can interact with other drugs, reducing or altering its effectiveness. This is especially important when taking medications that affect liver enzymes.

Drugs that weaken the effect of Levonorgestrel:

• Antiepileptic drugs — phenytoin, carbamazepine, topiramate, oxcarbazepine.

• Antituberculosis drugs — rifampicin, rifabutin.

• Antiretroviral agents — nevirapine, efavirenz.

• Barbiturates — phenobarbital, primidone.

• Antifungal drugs — griseofulvin.

• St. John's wort preparations — herbal remedies containing Hypericum perforatum.

• Some antibiotics — ampicillin, tetracycline.

• Secretolytics — lansoprazole.

If a woman regularly takes any of the listed medications, alternative contraception methods should be discussed with a doctor. With temporary use, additional protection (such as barrier methods) should be used.

Pregnancy

Pregnon should not be used if you're already pregnant. It does not interrupt an existing pregnancy and is not effective as an abortion method. In fact, taking it during pregnancy may potentially harm the developing fetus.

Breastfeeding

Levonorgestrel can pass into breast milk, but only in small amounts. It's generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding. However, it's a good idea to consult a doctor beforehand. In some cases, you may be advised to pump and discard breast milk for about 6 hours after taking the pill.

Fertility

Pregnon has no long-term effect on fertility. Once the pill’s action wears off—or the IUD is removed—your ability to get pregnant returns quickly, often with your next menstrual cycle.

Pregnon does not significantly affect reaction, attention, or coordination. A woman can drive a car, work with equipment, and perform tasks requiring concentration.

However, in rare cases, side effects such as headache or fatigue are possible. If they are pronounced, it is better to temporarily refrain from driving or working with machinery.

Like any hormonal agent, Pregnon can cause side effects. They are usually temporary and resolve on their own, but in rare cases require medical consultation.

Most common reactions:

• Nausea — one of the most frequent complaints after taking, especially when using tablets.

• Headache — may appear within the first day after taking.

• Abdominal pain — pulling sensations in the lower abdomen, similar to premenstrual ones.

• Fatigue — feeling of weakness or drowsiness.

• Menstrual cycle disorders — periods may come earlier, later, or differ in volume.

• Mood swings — irritability, anxiety, tearfulness.

If side effects are severe or persist for more than a few days, consult a doctor. This is especially important with severe bleeding, menstrual delay of more than 7 days, or signs of pregnancy.

Although serious complications from Pregnon overdose are unlikely, taking large amounts of Levonorgestrel can cause unpleasant symptoms:

• nausea and vomiting,

• uterine bleeding,

• headache,

• dizziness.

There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic. If overdose is suspected — especially in adolescents or in case of repeated intake over a short period — seek medical help.

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin that mimics the action of the natural hormone progesterone. Its mechanism of action depends on the time of intake in the cycle:

• before ovulation — suppresses LH and FSH release, inhibiting egg release;

• after ovulation — makes cervical mucus thick, making it difficult for sperm to move;

• also affects the endometrium — reduces the likelihood of implantation.

It's important to understand: the drug is ineffective if implantation has already occurred. It does not cause abortion and does not affect an already developing pregnancy.

After oral administration, Levonorgestrel is rapidly absorbed:

• maximum blood concentration is reached after 2 hours,

• bioavailability — about 100%, which means high efficiency with oral administration,

• half-life — about 24 hours,

• metabolized in the liver, excreted mainly in urine and feces.

When using an intrauterine device, Levonorgestrel is released locally in small doses, providing a constant effect with minimal systemic load.

• Hormonal contraceptives (progestins) used for emergency contraception.

In addition to the active component — Levonorgestrel, Pregnon tablets contain auxiliary substances that ensure stability of form, ease of administration, and absorption.

Among them:

• Lactose — milk sugar, used as a filler. People with lactose intolerance should consult a doctor.

• Starch — gives the tablet the desired shape and facilitates its breakdown in the stomach.

• Magnesium stearate — used as a lubricant in production, improves the sliding of components.

The complete composition may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. If a patient is allergic to any substances, it is important to study the instructions in advance or consult a doctor.

The shelf life of Pregnon is 5 years from the date of manufacture. The exact date is indicated on the package.

After the expiration date, the drug should not be used — its effectiveness may decrease, and safety is not guaranteed. If the date has passed, tablets or IUD should be disposed of according to recommendations, not reused.

To maintain the effectiveness of the drug, it is important to observe storage conditions:

• Tablets: store in a dry, dark place at temperatures up to 25°C. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture.

• Intrauterine device: store in factory packaging at room temperature until installation.

Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze. If the color, smell, or packaging integrity changes, it is better not to use the drug.

Pregnon is available in two packaging options depending on the form:

• Tablets — the blister contains two tablets of 0.75 mg each. The package is usually accompanied by instructions for use.

• Intrauterine device — a sterile device in individual packaging, intended for one-time installation by a doctor.

Before use, it is important to check the integrity of the packaging. Damaged blisters, sterile packets, or tablets with altered appearance should not be used.

• The drug must be disposed of in accordance with local sanitary regulations. This applies to both tablets and intrauterine devices. Do not throw expired or damaged tablets in the general trash or sewer — this can harm the environment. The intrauterine device after extraction is disposed of as medical waste. This is performed at the clinic. If you are not sure how to properly dispose of the drug, you can check at a pharmacy or medical facility.

• Pregnon is registered and available for sale in Myanmar. Before use in other countries, it is recommended to check the availability of registration certificate in local registries of medicinal products.

• Marie Stopes International.

• Pregnon is sold without a prescription to quickly gain access to emergency contraception when needed. However, it is recommended to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before use, especially if there are chronic diseases or other medications are being taken.

Pregnon should be used only in emergency cases, not as a regular method of contraception. Frequent use can disrupt the hormonal background and cause side effects.

If another unprotected sexual intercourse occurs during the same menstrual cycle, the tablet should not be taken again. Instead, barrier methods should be used or a doctor should be consulted to select a permanent contraceptive.

It is important to remember:

• the drug does not protect against sexually transmitted infections;

• effectiveness is reduced when taking certain other medications simultaneously;

• if there is no menstruation within 3 weeks after taking the tablet, a pregnancy test should be done.

• G03AX — other drugs for emergency contraception containing progestins.

• Z30.4 — Contraception when unsuccessfully used (for example, condom breakage, missed OC intake, etc.).