Levest

Levest is a monophasic combined oral contraceptive pill containing levonorgestrel and ethinylestradiol.

It provides effective hormonal contraception by suppressing ovulation, altering the cervical mucus to impede sperm transport, and modifying the endometrium.

Levonorgestrel is a well-established second-generation progestogen with decades of clinical experience supporting its safety and efficacy.

Each active tablet contains the same dose of both hormones, making Levest straightforward to use.

The combination of 150 micrograms of levonorgestrel with 30 micrograms of ethinylestradiol offers reliable cycle control with predictable withdrawal bleeds and a low incidence of breakthrough bleeding after the initial adjustment period.

Levest is suitable for women seeking a well-proven, cost-effective oral contraceptive with a favourable side-effect profile.

Second-generation progestogen pills such as Levest are associated with the lowest venous thromboembolism risk among combined oral contraceptives, making them a first-line choice for many prescribers.

Take one tablet daily at the same time for 21 consecutive days, followed by a seven-day tablet-free interval. A withdrawal bleed typically occurs during the break.

Begin the next pack after seven pill-free days, regardless of whether bleeding has stopped.

For immediate contraceptive cover, start on the first day of your menstrual period. If starting on any other day, use additional barrier contraception for the first seven days.

If you miss a pill, follow the guidance in the patient leaflet.

One tablet daily for 21 days, followed by seven pill-free days. Each active tablet contains levonorgestrel 150 micrograms and ethinylestradiol 30 micrograms.

The regimen is the same for all 21 active days. No dose modifications are available; if the formulation is unsuitable, an alternative contraceptive should be chosen.

Common side effects include headache, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and breakthrough bleeding, particularly in the first one to three cycles.

Uncommon effects include migraine, weight fluctuation, reduced libido, and acne. Rare serious risks include venous thromboembolism and arterial thromboembolism.

Levonorgestrel-containing combined pills are associated with the lowest thrombotic risk among combined oral contraceptives, though the absolute risk remains slightly higher than in non-users.

Combined oral contraceptives carry a small increased risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism. Risk is highest during the first year and after restarting following a break exceeding four weeks.

Stop taking Levest and seek immediate medical advice if you develop sudden leg swelling, chest pain, severe headache, or visual disturbance. Do not use if you smoke and are over 35 years of age.

Levest does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Levest is contraindicated in women with current or past venous or arterial thromboembolism, known thrombophilic disorders, migraine with aura, severe hypertension, diabetes with vascular complications, active liver disease or liver tumours, known or suspected hormone-sensitive cancers, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, pancreatitis with severe hypertriglyceridaemia, and hypersensitivity to any ingredient.