The Web Health

Subscribe

Plan B: One-Step

Generic name: levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive [LEE-voe-nor-jes-trel]
Dosage Form: tablet (1.5 mg)
Drug class: contraceptives

What is Plan B One-Step?

Plan B One-Step is a morning after pill (emergency contraceptive pill) that is used to stop pregnancy following a sexual encounter that is not protected or the failure of other types of contraception (such as condom rupture or a missing dosage of birth pills for controlling). It works The Plan B pill works by temporarily preventing the release of eggs out of the ovary (ovulation), which can prevent the onset of pregnancy before it even begins. The Plan B pill (levonorgestrel, 1.5 mg) is to be consumed at least the first 72 hours of sex that is not protected or a birth control issue, and the earlier it is taken, the more effectively it performs.

Every person, regardless of age or gender, can buy Plan-B One-Step straight off the shelf, without a prescription or ID required, at any of the big retailers throughout the U.S.

Plan B pills The Plan B pill is an alternative method to prevent pregnancy. It is not recommended as a routine method of contraception. Discuss with your doctor or health professional the different methods of birth control available.

How efficient is Plan B?

In a study conducted in clinical trials, Plan B was effective at cutting down the chances of becoming pregnant from 8 percent to 1.1 percent following just one mid-cycle unprotected sex if it was administered correctly within 72 hours following an unprotected sexual encounter. In a study of clinical studies, Plan B was shown to yield an efficiency of 89% when it was taken in the correct manner according to the instructions.

The difference is: what's the main distinction between Plan B and Plan B One-Step?

  • One step of Plan B comprises the levonorgestrel 1.5 mg tablet that can be purchased over-the-counter with no prescription.
  • Plan B included two Levonorgestrel 0.75 mg tablets. It is currently being discontinued.

Warnings

Use this medication only when you are already expecting. Levonorgestrel cannot end an already-born pregnancy. started (the fertilized egg has been attached to your uterus).

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist prior to taking levonorgestrel if you routinely use medication to treat seizures, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. Certain medications may make levonorgestrel less effective as an emergency type of contraception.

Before taking this medication

It is not recommended to use One-Step Plan B if you are allergic to levonorgestrel or any of the other ingredients in this medication. The list of ingredients can be found near the bottom of this webpage.

Pregnancy

Use caution with this medication if you are already expecting a baby. This medicine cannot end an already-born pregnancy. started (the fertilized egg is attached to your uterus).

Breastfeeding

Levonorgestrel can reduce the production of breast milk. Consult your physician if you are nursing.

What steps should I take to implement Plan B?

Use Plan B One-Step precisely according to the directions on the label or as directed by your physician or medical professional.

The Plan B One-Step is a single tablet to be taken once. It is required to be taken as quickly as possible and not longer than at least 72 hours (3 days) after sexual contact that was not protected. The earlier the tablet is taken, the more efficiently it will work. Get in touch with your doctor immediately in the event that you vomit within two hours after taking this medication because you might need to take a second tablet.

See your doctor within 3 weeks of taking this medication. A doctor will confirm whether you're pregnant or not and confirm that the medicine you are taking has not produced any negative effects. If your period is delayed by one week or more than the date you expected, then you could be pregnant. Test for pregnancy and inform your doctor if you're expecting. Levonorgestrel does not end the pregnancy if the fertilized egg is inserted into the uterus.

Do I be concerned if I miss a dose?

Because this medication is administered in a single dose, there is no established daily dose schedule.

What will happen if I take excessively?

Because the medicine is given in a single tablet at the exact dose, the risk of overdosing is low when this drug is administered according to the directions. Take only one tablet at a time.

What should be avoided?

The medicine does not protect against sexually transmitted illnesses, including HIV or AIDS. The use of a condom is your only method to safeguard yourself from these illnesses. Do not engage in sexual activities that aren't protected.

Side effects of One Step of Plan B

The most serious Plan B one-step side adverse effects are:

Allergic reaction: Seek immediate medical attention if you show symptoms of an allergic reaction to this medication. The symptoms could include the appearance of hives, breathing problems, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.

The tubal (ectopic) pregnant: Contact an appointment with your physician or request urgent medical attention if you experience intense discomfort in your stomach or in your side. It could be an indication of tubal pregnancy (a pregnancy that implants into the fallopian tube, not your uterus). A tubal pregnancy can be an emergency medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.

The Common Plan B one-step adverse effects can include:

This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Others could happen. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction with other drugs

Certain medications may reduce the effectiveness of levonorgestrel, which could lead to pregnancy. Do not take this medication without informing your doctor or pharmacist that you're taking any of the following drugs:

  • Efavirenz (Atripla, Sustiva);
  • Rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, isonarif, Rimactane); or
  • Seizure medication: carbamazepine, felbamate, fosphenytoin, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone.
  • Bosentan
  • Griseofulvin
  • Topiramate

This list isn't complete. Other medications may be in sync with levonorgestrel. This includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, such as vitamins and herbal products. There aren't all interactions included in this guide to medications. To determine possible interactions between Plan B and levonorgestrel, click on the button below.