Levest
Levest Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Levest is a brand name. Its generic name is Levonorgestrel + Ethinylestradiol.
Introduction
Levest (LNG + EE) is a combination hormone medication used to prevent pregnancy. It contains a progestin and an estrogen, and is classified as a combined oral contraceptive (COC). LNG + EE acts by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and altering the endometrium to create an environment unfavorable for implantation.Uses
LNG + EE is most commonly used as a method of contraception to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular menstrual cycles, as well as to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.Mechanism of Action
LNG + EE works by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and altering the endometrium to create an environment unsuitable for implantation. LNG + EE prevents ovulation by suppressing the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thereby preventing the development and release of an egg from the ovary. It also thickens the cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus and fertilize the egg. Lastly, it alters the endometrium, making it inhospitable for implantation.How long does it take to work?
If taken as directed, LNG+EE will begin to work as a contraceptive within the first 7 days of starting the medication. However, it is important to note that it may take up to 3 months to reach its full contraceptive effect.Absorption
LNG + EE is rapidly absorbed following oral administration and reaches peak concentration within 4-6 hours. Most of the drug is bound to albumin and α1-acid glycoprotein in the plasma.Route of Elimination
LNG + EE is mainly eliminated by the liver. It is metabolised by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 enzyme and excreted in the urine and faeces.Dosage
The recommended dosage for LNG+EE is one tablet taken by mouth once a day each day for 21 consecutive days. Each tablet contains 0.15 mg levonorgestrel and 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol.Administration
LNG + EE should be taken on a regular schedule, typically once a day at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food.Side Effects
Common side effects of LNG + EE may include nausea, vomiting, headache, weight gain, breast tenderness, irregular periods, and acne. More serious side effects may include stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, gallbladder or liver disease, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).Toxicity
An acute overdose of LNG+EE is unlikely to cause serious harm. The most common side effects associated with an overdose are nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.Precaution
LNG + EE should not be taken by women who are pregnant, or who may become pregnant. It should also be avoided by women with a history of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, or breast cancer, as well as women who are taking medications that interact with LNG + EE. It is important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to starting this medication.Interactions
Certain medications may reduce the effectiveness of LNG + EE, or cause increased side effects. Some of these medications include rifampin, barbiturates, and certain anticonvulsants. It is important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to taking any medications that may interact with LNG + EE.Disease Interaction
LNG + EE may also interact with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, migraines, depression, and high blood pressure. It is important to discuss any medical conditions with a doctor prior to taking LNG + EE.Drug Interaction
As mentioned above, certain medications may reduce the effectiveness of LNG + EE, or cause increased side effects. It is important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to taking any medications that may interact with LNG + EE.Food Interactions
There are no known food interactions with LNG + EE.Pregnancy Use
LNG + EE should not be taken by women who are pregnant, or who may become pregnant.Lactation Use
LNG + EE should not be taken by women who are breastfeeding.Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of LNG + EE is unlikely to cause serious harm. The most common side effects associated with an overdose are nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.Contraindication
LNG + EE is contraindicated in women with a history of stroke, heart attack, or blood clots, as well as those who are taking medications that interact with LNG + EE.Use Direction
LNG + EE should be taken on a regular schedule, typically once a day at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food.Storage Conditions
LNG + EE tablets should be stored at temperatures between 68 and 77°F.Volume of Distribution/Clearance
The volume of distribution of LNG + EE is 122.6 L. The clearance of the medication is 93.4 L/hour.Half Life
The half-life of LNG+EE is approximately 7.4 hours.Here you find in details version of Levest
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Levest
.What is Levest?
Levest is a combination birth control pill that contains two hormones: levonorgestrel, a progestin, and ethinylestradiol, an estrogen.
How does Levest work?
Levest works by preventing ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovaries. It also increases the thickness of the cervical mucus, making it harder for the sperm to reach an egg, and alters the lining of the uterus, making it harder for a fertilized egg to implant.
Who is this medication used for?
Levest is used to prevent pregnancy and to regulate menstrual cycles in women.
What are the possible side effects of this medication?
The possible side effects of Levest include nausea, headache, weight gain, fatigue, abdominal pain, and mood changes. Additionally, women taking this medication may also experience breast tenderness, soreness, and increased growth of facial and body hair.
What is the usual dosage of Levest?
The usual dosage of Levest is one tablet taken orally once daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by seven days of no tablets. The start date of the cycle should be marked on a calendar.
What if I miss a dose of Levest?
If you miss a dose of Levest, take the pill as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Using a backup method of contraception, such as a condom, for the next seven days is recommended to prevent pregnancy.
What should I avoid while taking Levest?
It is recommended to avoid smoking while taking this medication. Smoking may increase your risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, and this risk further increases in women who are over 35 years of age.
What medications should not be taken with Levest?
Certain medicines, such as those used to treat HIV and/or hepatitis C, should not be taken with Levest as they may decrease the effectiveness of the birth control pill. Some antibiotics may also reduce the effectiveness of the birth control pill. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication with any other medicine.
Can Levest be safely used by women with high blood pressure or diabetes?
Yes, Levest can be safely used by women with high blood pressure or diabetes. However, it is important to regularly monitor your blood pressure or blood sugar levels while taking this medication.
What is the risk of blood clots with Levest?
The risk of blood clots is rare with the use of Levest. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history and other risk factors, as your risk may be higher.
Can Levest be used up to the age of 45?
Levest can be safely used up to the age of 45; however, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medical conditions and risk factors, as your risk may be higher.
Is it true that the risk of breast cancer goes up when taking Levest?
No, the risk of breast cancer does not necessarily go up when taking Levest. However, women should remain aware of any changes to their breasts and report any abnormalities.
Can I take Levest while nursing?
No, Levest is not recommended for use while nursing. Talk to your healthcare provider about other birth control options.
Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Levest?
No, there are no known foods or drinks that should be avoided while taking Levest. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any dietary restrictions or nutritional deficiencies you may have.
Are there any risks associated with Levest?
Yes, there are some risks associated with taking Levest. These risks include an increased risk of blood clots and stroke, high blood pressure, and gallbladder disease.
Can I take Levest if I have a history of depression or anxiety?
Yes, Levest can be taken if you have a history of depression or anxiety, as long as your symptoms are under control. However, the hormones in this medication may worsen depression or anxiety so it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history.
Can I take Levest if I'm pregnant or trying to become pregnant?
No, Levest should not be taken if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider about other options for preventing pregnancy.
Does Levest reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections?
No, Levest does not reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. It is important to use a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom, to reduce the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.
Can Levest be used to treat acne?
Levest can be used to treat acne in women, as the hormones in this medication can reduce excess sebum production. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about other treatment options if you are not using this medication for birth control.
What is the difference between Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol?
Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol are both hormones used in combination birth control pills, but they have different functions. Levonorgestrel is a progestin, and it prevents ovulation and increases the thickness of the cervical mucus. Ethinylestradiol is an estrogen, and it alters the lining of the uterus, making it harder for a fertilized egg to implant.
Can Levest be used as emergency contraception?
No, Levest should not be used as emergency contraception. Talk to your healthcare provider about other methods of emergency contraception.
Is it safe to take Levest while breastfeeding?
No, Levest is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. Talk to your healthcare provider about other birth control options.
Are there any risks associated with using Levest while breastfeeding?
Yes, there are some risks associated with using Levest while breastfeeding. These risks include decreased milk supply and decreased quality of breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about other birth control options.
Should I take Levest if I'm over 35?
Yes, Levest can be safely taken if you are over 35; however, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or risk factors, as your risk may be higher.
Can Levest be taken with other medications?
Yes, Levest can be taken with other medications. However, certain medications should not be taken with Levest, such as those used to treat HIV and/or hepatitis C, as they may reduce the effectiveness of the birth control pill. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication with any other medicine.
What if I have been taking the pill for a long time?
It is important to take regular breaks from taking Levest. Talk to your healthcare provider about taking regular breaks from the medication to reduce the risk of side effects.
Is there an increased risk of ovarian cancer with Levest?
No, the use of Levest does not necessarily increase the risk of ovarian cancer. However, it is important to be aware of any changes in your body and report them to your healthcare provider.
Can Levest be taken while on antibiotics?
Yes, Levest can be taken while on antibiotics. However, some antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of this medication so it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking it with any other medicine.
Can Levest be taken while traveling?
Yes, Levest can be taken while traveling. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any dietary restrictions or nutritional deficiencies that may arise during your travels.
Can Levest be used to treat menstrual pain?
Yes, Levest can be used to reduce the severity of menstrual pain. The hormones in this medication can reduce inflammation and relieve cramping.
What is the difference between Levest and other birth control pills?
Levest is a combination birth control pill that contains two hormones: levonorgestrel, a progestin, and ethinylestradiol, an estrogen. Other birth control pills may contain different types and amounts of hormones.
Will Levest protect me from sexually transmitted infections?
No, Levest will not protect you from sexually transmitted infections. It is important to use a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom, to reduce the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.
Can Levest be used to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding?
Yes, Levest can be used to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. The hormones in this medication can reduce inflammation and the production of prostaglandins, which can help to reduce the amount of menstrual bleeding.
What are the long-term effects of taking Levest?
The long-term effects of taking Levest are not yet known, but the short-term effects include nausea, headache, weight gain, fatigue, abdominal pain, and mood changes. Additionally, women taking this medication may also experience breast tenderness, soreness, and increased growth of facial and body hair.
What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Levest?
If you experience any side effects while taking Levest, such as nausea, headache, weight gain, or abdominal pain, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider immediately. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different type of birth control