Drank escapelle after 72 hours. The drug "Escapel": reviews of the gynecologist, instructions and side effects

Most pregnancy protection methods only work if you take care to use them BEFORE intercourse. For example, it makes no sense to start taking birth control pills if sex has already happened. It's no smarter than putting on a condom after a man ejaculates.

Emergency contraception is a method of preventing pregnancy when unprotected intercourse has already taken place.

When will emergency contraception help?

Emergency contraception can help prevent unwanted pregnancy in the following situations:

• If you have had unprotected sex
• If during sex and you didn't notice it in time
• If you missed 2 or more

Rules for emergency contraception

• Almost any emergency contraceptive should be taken no later than 72 hours after intercourse. If more than 3 days have passed after sex, then the drug will be ineffective.
• If 3-5 days have passed after sex, then you can contact a gynecologist who will put an intrauterine device. An intrauterine device is a device that is inserted into the uterine cavity and prevents pregnancy.
• Before taking any emergency contraceptive, you should consult with your gynecologist.
• Some diseases of the digestive system (such as Crohn's disease), as well as taking other medicines, can reduce the effectiveness of emergency contraception. These medicines are listed in the emergency contraceptive product label.

What pills will help not get pregnant after sex?

There are several drugs that are classified as emergency contraceptives. We will consider each of them separately.

Postinor

Postinor is the oldest and most well-known emergency contraceptive among women. This drug contains a loading dose of the hormone levongestrel, which prevents the attachment of a fertilized egg in the uterus.

One tablet of Postinor contains 750 micrograms of levongestrel. In order for the effect of Postinor to be maximum, you need to drink 2 tablets with a difference of 12-16 hours.

It is necessary to take the first dose of Postinor in the first 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. The sooner you take the first pill, the higher the likelihood that Postinor will help avoid pregnancy. So, on the first day after sex, the drug will work in 95% of cases, if the interval between sexual intercourse and taking Postinor was 24-48 hours, then in 85% of cases, and if more - only in 58% of cases. Taking Postinor later than 72 hours after intercourse will not bring any effect.

12-16 hours after taking the first tablet, you must definitely drink the second Postinor tablet. If you vomit a few hours after taking the first or second tablet, you need to take another tablet.

Postinor can cause menstrual irregularities, early or late menstruation, chest pain, spotting. The presence or absence of menstruation (or discharge) after taking Postinor does not indicate its effectiveness.

You can be sure that you are not pregnant only by making at least 3.5 weeks after intercourse. You can find out if there is a pregnancy before by passing. This can be done as early as 11 days after unprotected sex. Postinor does not distort the results of a pregnancy test or a blood test for hCG.

If the menstruation did not come on time and lasts more than 5 days, take a pregnancy test and consult a gynecologist.

If Postinor did not help?

If you took Postinor, but pregnancy still occurred, contact your gynecologist. Taking this drug increases the risk, so you need to get a test that will show where the fetus is located.

Taking Postinor, as a rule, does not adversely affect the development of the child, so there is no need to terminate the pregnancy (abortion). If you decide to have an abortion, let your doctor know.

Escapelle

WARNING: The drug has contraindications. Do not start using this drug without first talking to your doctor.

Escapel, like Postinor, contains a large dose of the hormone levongestrel, which prevents the fertilized egg from gaining a foothold in the uterus. The only difference is that one tablet of Escapel contains 150 mg of levongestrel, and you need to take this drug only once.

Escapel should be taken no later than 72 hours after sexual intercourse. The greatest efficiency is observed if the pill is drunk on the first day after unprotected sex.

Escapelle may cause nausea or vomiting. If you have vomited within 3 hours of taking the tablet, then you need to take another dose of Escapelle.

As a result of taking Exapel, there may be a failure of the menstrual cycle, the appearance of spotting, chest pain. If your period is more than 5 days late, a pregnancy test is recommended. Escapelle does not affect the result of a pregnancy test.

If Escapelle did not help?

If pregnancy still occurs, consult a gynecologist. The doctor will perform an ultrasound and specify where the fetus is located. If the pregnancy is proceeding normally, then there is no need to interrupt it, since taking Escapel does not affect the development of the fetus and the course of pregnancy. If you do decide to have an abortion, tell your gynecologist about it.

How often can I take Postinor and Escapel?

Postinor and Escapel are intended for emergency situations and cannot be used for regular contraception. However, these drugs can be taken as many times as necessary, even if the need arose a second time within the same menstrual cycle. There are no studies that would prove the unsafety of repeated use of Postinor or Escapel.

If you often need to take Postinor or Escapel, you need to seriously think about what is right for you.

How many days Postinor and Escapel protect against pregnancy?

Postinor and Escapel act only after sexual intercourse has taken place. Any subsequent unprotected intercourse may provoke pregnancy, even if you have recently taken Postinor or Escapelle.

What happens if you take Postinor or Escapel during pregnancy?

These drugs are ineffective if pregnancy has already occurred. Taking Postinor or Escapel during pregnancy will not lead to its termination.

Ginepristone and Genale

WARNING: The drug has contraindications. Do not start using this drug without first talking to your doctor.

These are modern means of emergency contraception that do not contain hormones, do not cause menstrual cycle failure and other side effects, while being highly effective.

Both of these drugs contain the same substance in the same dose. The only difference is the manufacturer. Ginepristone and Genale contain the active ingredient Mifepristone at a dose of 10 mg. Mifepristone, unlike Postinor and Escapel, is not a hormone, but it also prevents pregnancy by preventing the fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine cavity.

Ginepriston or Genale tablets should be taken within the first 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. The sooner you take the drug, the more effective it will be. If the pill is taken in the first 12 hours after sex, then the effectiveness of the drug will be about 98%, if on the first day, then 95%, if later - 85-90%. These drugs are not effective if pregnancy has already occurred.

Important: in order for the drug to be as effective as possible, you should drink a Ginepriston or Genale tablet 2 hours after eating and do not eat for 2 hours after taking the tablet. Within a week after taking the pill, it is not recommended to take Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Indomethacin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

If Ginepriston or Genale did not help?

Tradename:

Escapelle ®

International non-proprietary name:

levonorgestrel

Dosage form:

pills

COMPOUND

Each tablet contains:

Active substance: levonorgestrel 1.50 mg.

Excipients: potato starch; silicon dioxide colloidal; magnesium stearate; talc; corn starch; lactose monohydrate.

Description

Flat round tablets, white or off-white, chamfered and debossed with "G00" on one side.

PHARMACOTHERAPEUTIC GROUP:

gestagen

CodeATX: G03A С03

PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

Pharmacodynamics

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestogen with a contraceptive effect, pronounced progestogenic and antiestrogenic properties. At the recommended dosing regimen, levonorgestrel inhibits ovulation and fertilization if sexual intercourse occurs in the pre-ovulatory phase, when the possibility of fertilization is greatest. It can also cause changes in the endometrium that prevent implantation. The drug is not effective if implantation has already occurred.

Efficacy: It is recommended to start taking Escapel as soon as possible (but no later than 72 hours) after sexual intercourse, if no protective measures have been taken. The more time elapsed between sexual intercourse and taking the drug, the lower its effectiveness (95% during the first 24 hours, 85% - from 24 to 48 hours, and 58% - from 48 to 72 hours). At the recommended dose, levonorgestrel does not significantly affect blood clotting factors, fat and carbohydrate metabolism.

Pharmacokinetics

When taken orally, levonorgestrel is rapidly and almost completely absorbed. After taking one tablet of Escapel, the maximum concentration of the drug in serum equal to 18.5 ng / ml is reached after 2 hours. After reaching the maximum level of concentration, the content of levonorgestrel decreases, and the half-life is about 26 hours.

Levonorgestrel is excreted approximately equally by the kidneys and through the intestines exclusively in the form of metabolites. Biotransformation of levonorgestrel corresponds to the metabolism of steroids. Levonorgestrel is hydroxylated in the liver and metabolites are excreted in the form of conjugated glucuronides. Pharmacologically active metabolites of levonorgestrel are unknown.

Levonorgestrel binds to serum albumin and to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Only 1.5% of the total dose is in the free form, and 65% is associated with SHBG. Absolute bioavailability is 100% of the dose taken.

INDICATIONS FOR USE

Emergency (postcoital) contraception (after unprotected intercourse or unreliability of the contraceptive method used).

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Hypersensitivity to any component of the drug, use in adolescents under 16 years of age, severe liver failure, pregnancy.

Patients with rare hereditary diseases such as lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption.

Carefully

Diseases of the liver or biliary tract, jaundice (including history), Crohn's disease, lactation.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

Escapelle should not be used during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurred while using an emergency method of contraception, then, based on the available data, an adverse effect of the drug on the fetus was not detected.

Levonorgestrel passes into breast milk. After taking the drug, breastfeeding should be stopped for 24 hours.

METHOD OF APPLICATION AND DOSES

The drug is administered orally. One tablet should be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. If vomiting occurs within three hours after taking the Escapel tablet, then another Escapel tablet should be taken. Escapelle can be used at any time of the menstrual cycle. In case of an irregular menstrual cycle, pregnancy must be excluded. After taking an emergency contraceptive, a local barrier method (such as a condom) should be used until the next period. The use of the drug during repeated unprotected intercourse during one menstrual cycle is not recommended due to an increase in the frequency of acyclic spotting / bleeding.

SIDE EFFECT

Allergic reactions are possible: urticaria, rash, itching, swelling of the face.

Transient side effects occurring with varying frequency (often: ≥1/100,<1/10, очень часто: ≥1/10) и не требующие медикаментозной терапии.

Often: vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, soreness of the mammary glands, delayed menstruation (no more than 5-7 days), if menstruation is delayed for a longer period, pregnancy must be excluded.

Very common: nausea, fatigue, pain in the lower abdomen, acyclic spotting (bleeding).

OVERDOSE

Increased severity of side effects. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic.

INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS

With the simultaneous administration of drugs-inducers of liver enzymes, the metabolism of levonorgestrel is accelerated.

The following drugs may reduce the effectiveness of levonorgestrel: amprecavil, lansoprazole, nevirapine, oxcarbazepine, tacrolimus, topiramate, tretinoin, barbiturates including primidone, phenytoin and carbamazepine, preparations containing St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), as well as rifampicin, ritonavir, ampicillin, tetracycline, rifabutin, griseofulvin. Reduces the effectiveness of hypoglycemic and anticoagulant (coumarin derivatives, phenindione) drugs. Increases plasma concentrations of glucocorticosteroids. Women taking these drugs should contact their doctor. Preparations containing levonorgestrel may increase the risk of cyclosporine toxicity due to the suppression of its metabolism.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Escapel should only be used for emergency contraception! Repeated use of the drug Escapel during one menstrual cycle is not recommended! Escapelle should be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. The effectiveness of emergency contraception with delayed use of the drug is significantly reduced.

The drug does not replace the use of permanent methods of contraception. In most cases, Escapelle does not affect the nature of the menstrual cycle. However, there may be acyclic spotting and a delay in menstruation for several days. With a delay in menstruation for more than 5-7 days and a change in its nature (scanty or heavy discharge), pregnancy must be excluded. The appearance of pain in the lower abdomen, fainting may indicate an ectopic (ectopic) pregnancy.

Adolescents under 16 in exceptional cases (including rape) need to consult a gynecologist to confirm pregnancy. After emergency contraception, a consultation with a gynecologist is recommended to select the most appropriate method for permanent contraception.

Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

With violations of the function of the gastrointestinal tract (for example, with Crohn's disease), the effectiveness of the drug may decrease.

The effect of the drug on the ability to drive a car and work mechanisms

The effect of the drug on the ability to drive a car and other machines has not been studied.

RELEASE FORM

1 tablet of 1.50 mg in AL/PVC blister. 1 blister in a cardboard box with attached instructions for use.

STORAGE CONDITIONS

List B. At a temperature of 15 to 25 ° C.
Keep out of the reach of children!

BEST BEFORE DATE

5 years.
Do not use the drug after the expiration date

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF DISCOUNT FROM PHARMACIES

On prescription.

Manufacturer

OJSC "Gedeon Richter"
1103 Budapest, st. Demrei, 19-21, Hungary

Consumer complaints should be directed to:
Moscow Representative Office of OJSC "Gedeon Richter" 119049 Moscow, 4th Dobryninsky lane, 8.

Do I have to wait 72 hours to take Escapelle?

In no case! The sooner, the better. The sooner you take Escapelle, the more likely you are to prevent pregnancy. Some people refer to emergency contraceptive pills as “next day pills.” But this does not oblige you to wait until the next day. You can take the Escapelle tablet immediately or use it up to three days after having unprotected intercourse or if you are concerned that your contraceptive method has not worked.

Take Escapelle as soon as possible - the sooner the better!

The sooner you take Escapel, the more likely it will work.
The effectiveness of emergency contraceptives containing levonorgestrel depends on the number of hours that have passed since unprotected sex:

• Within 24 hours - 95%
• Between 25-48 hours - 85%
• Between 49-72 hours - 58%

If you are concerned about the possibility of an unwanted pregnancy, it is important to act immediately and not wait until the last minute.

How to use Escapel correctly?

How often can Escapel be used?

It is not a regular method of contraception. Try to use emergency contraception as little as possible, only in an emergency. But never forget: this method has far fewer side effects and health risks than abortion pills or abortion.

Strictly speaking, emergency contraception should not be used more than once in a single menstrual cycle.
If emergency contraception is used more than once during the menstrual cycle, then this will most likely change your menstrual cycle (period).
Emergency contraception does not work as well as regular methods of contraception. Your doctor, nurse, or family planning center can tell you about long-term contraceptive methods that are more effective in preventing you from having an unplanned pregnancy.

Why should Escapel be used only in emergencies?

Emergency contraception is not as effective as planned contraception. In fact, the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive pill within 24 hours is 95%, but regular contraceptives are even more effective (about 98%).

Escapelle may change the regularity of your periods in the month you take it. Your period may come earlier than usual or later. Taking the pill again is even more likely to change your menstrual cycle. Because your period is the main way you can tell if you're pregnant, taking emergency contraceptive pills regularly will increase your level of uncertainty.

So, emergency contraceptive pills are not meant to be used as a regular method of contraception. If you are sexually active, then no matter how often you have sex, you need to choose a regular long-term contraceptive method that suits you.

If you are pregnant

If you are already pregnant, emergency contraception will not be effective and will not harm an established pregnancy or fetus.
If you think you are pregnant, contact your doctor or family planning center as soon as possible.

If you have taken an emergency contraceptive pill once since your last period and now find yourself pregnant, do not take emergency contraception again.

What should I do if I feel sick after taking an emergency contraceptive pill?

After taking Escapelle, some women (about 1 in 100) develop nausea (vomiting).

If you vomit within 3 hours of taking Escapelle, you must take another tablet.
In a word, go back to the pharmacy for another pill.

If nausea occurs more than 3 hours after taking the pill, you do not need to take Escapel again.

How do I know if Escapelle has worked?

You will know that the emergency contraceptive pill has worked when your next period begins and the cycle is normal.

When should you see a doctor?

• If your period is more than 5 days late, or if it is unusually heavy or light.
• If you are still concerned that you are pregnant.
• If you have sudden or unusual pain in your lower abdomen and your period is late.
• If you have any doubts about your health or the methods of contraception that are best for you.

Will I feel any side effects?

Escapel contains levonorgestrel and is a safe and effective method of emergency contraception. Most women do not experience any side effects. Some women experience side effects after taking emergency contraceptive pills, such as nausea, headache, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, or feeling tired. These symptoms are usually mild and disappear within a short time.

Some women may experience a change in their menstrual cycle, stronger or weaker periods in the next cycle, or an earlier or later onset of menstruation. If your period is more than 5 days late, you may be pregnant. If you feel severe pain in your abdomen, you may have an ectopic pregnancy and you should contact your doctor immediately.

What should I do if I have problems after taking Escapelle?

If you feel headache or nausea, it usually goes away after a while. So first of all you need to calm down and lie down or sit. It may help if you eat and drink something while taking the pill. If your symptoms persist and you are concerned, see your doctor.

Do emergency contraceptive pills change the menstrual cycle?

Usually, taking Escapelle tablets does not affect the menstrual cycle, and it occurs at the usual time. But the onset of menstruation can occur a little earlier or later than usual. You may also experience irregular bleeding or spotting until your next menstrual cycle.

Postcoital contraceptive with a pronounced gestagenic and antiestrogenic effect. With the recommended dosage regimen, it suppresses ovulation and fertilization if sexual intercourse occurred in the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, i.e. during the period of greatest probability of fertilization. In addition, the regression of endometrial proliferation caused by the drug prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg. When implantation has taken place, the drug is ineffective.

It is recommended to start taking Escapel® as soon as possible (but no later than 72 hours) after sexual intercourse, if no protective measures have been taken. The more time elapsed between sexual intercourse and taking the drug, the lower its effectiveness (95% during the first 24 hours, 85% - from 24 to 48 hours, and 58% - from 48 to 72 hours).

Pharmacokinetics

Suction

After oral administration, levonorgestrel is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Cmax of the active substance in plasma is reached after 2 hours and is 18.5 ng / ml. Absolute bioavailability is 100%.

Distribution

Levonorgestrel binds to albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). 1.5% of the total amount in plasma is in the form of a free steroid, 65% is specifically associated with SHBG.

Metabolism

Biotransformation of levonorgestrel corresponds to the metabolism of steroids. Levonorgestrel is hydroxylated in the liver and metabolites are excreted in the form of conjugated glucuronides. Pharmacologically active metabolites of levonorgestrel are unknown.

breeding

After reaching Cmax, the concentration of levonorgestrel in plasma decreases. T1 / 2 is 26 hours. Levonorgestrel is excreted approximately equally by the kidneys and through the intestines exclusively in the form of metabolites.

Pharmacokinetics in special clinical situations

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, occurring with impaired absorption, reduce the absorption of the drug, which may affect its effectiveness.

Release form

Tablets white or almost white, flat, round, chamfered and engraved "G00" on one side.

Excipients: potato starch, anhydrous colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, talc, corn starch, lactose monohydrate.

1 PC. - blisters (1) - packs of cardboard.

Dosage

The drug is taken orally at 1.5 mg (1 tab.) As soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse (the effectiveness of emergency contraception with delayed use of the drug is significantly reduced). If vomiting occurs within 3 hours after ingestion, then Escapel should be taken again at a dose of 1.5 mg (1 tab.).

The drug can be used at any time of the menstrual cycle. In case of an irregular menstrual cycle, pregnancy must be excluded.

After taking the drug Escapelle ® before the onset of the next menstruation, local barrier methods of contraception (for example, a condom) should be used. The use of the drug during repeated unprotected intercourse during one menstrual cycle is not recommended due to an increase in the frequency of acyclic spotting / bleeding.

Overdose

Symptoms: increased severity of side effects.

Treatment: symptomatic therapy, there is no specific antidote.

Interaction

With the simultaneous use of the drug Escapel ® with inducers of liver enzymes, the metabolism of levonogestrel is accelerated.

The contraceptive effect of the drug Escapel ® is reduced when used simultaneously with the following drugs: amprenavir, lansoprazole, nevirapine, oxycarbazepine, tacrolimus, topiramate, tretinoin, barbiturates, including primidone, phenytoin and carbamazepine, preparations containing St. John's wort, as well as rifampicin, ritonavir, ampicillin , tetracycline, rifabutin, griseofulvin.

Escapel ® reduces the effectiveness of hypoglycemic and anticoagulant (coumarin derivatives, phenindione) drugs.

Levonorgestrel increases plasma concentrations of corticosteroids.

Preparations containing levonorgestrel may increase the risk of cyclosporine toxicity due to the suppression of its metabolism.

Side effects

Allergic reactions: possibly - urticaria, rash, itching, swelling of the face.

The following are transient adverse reactions that occur with varying frequency and do not require drug therapy: very often (≥1/10), often (≥1/100,<1/10).

From the digestive system: very often - nausea; often - vomiting, diarrhea.

From the side of the central nervous system: very often - fatigue; often - headache, dizziness.

From the reproductive system: very often - pain in the lower abdomen, acyclic spotting (bleeding); often - soreness of the mammary glands, delayed menstruation (no more than 5-7 days). If menstruation is delayed for a longer period, pregnancy must be excluded.

Indications

Emergency (postcoital) contraception (after unprotected intercourse or unreliability of the contraceptive method used).

Contraindications

• severe liver failure;
• use in adolescents under 16 years of age;
• pregnancy;
• lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or glucose/galactose malabsorption;
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

With caution, the drug should be used in patients with diseases of the liver or biliary tract, with jaundice (including history), Crohn's disease, during lactation.

Application features

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Escapel ® is contraindicated for use during pregnancy. Based on the available data, there was no adverse effect of the drug on the fetus in the event of pregnancy against the background of the use of an emergency method of contraception.

Levonorgestrel is excreted in breast milk. After taking the drug, breastfeeding should be stopped for 24 hours.

Application for violations of liver function

Contraindicated in liver diseases.

special instructions

This medicine is for emergency contraception only and does not replace regular contraception. Repeated use of the drug Escapel ® during one menstrual cycle is not recommended.

Escapel should be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. The effectiveness of emergency contraception with delayed use of the drug is significantly reduced.

In most cases, Escapel ® does not affect the nature of the menstrual cycle. However, there may be acyclic spotting and a delay in menstruation for several days. With a delay in menstruation for more than 5-7 days and a change in its nature (scanty or heavy discharge), pregnancy must be excluded. The appearance of pain in the lower abdomen, fainting may indicate an ectopic (ectopic) pregnancy.

Adolescents under 16 in exceptional cases (including rape) need to consult a gynecologist to confirm pregnancy. After emergency contraception, a consultation with a gynecologist is recommended to select the most appropriate method for permanent contraception.

Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

With violations of the function of the gastrointestinal tract (for example, with Crohn's disease), the effectiveness of the drug may decrease.

Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and control mechanisms

The effect of the drug on the ability to drive vehicles and other mechanisms has not been studied.

If a woman does not plan a pregnancy, then birth control pills after the act within 72 hours will help to avoid unwanted conception. This method of protection in medicine is called the method of postcoital, emergency contraception. It is applicable in cases where unprotected intercourse occurs and the woman does not use other methods of contraception (spiral, oral contraceptives).

Emergency contraception and birth control pills after intercourse

Emergency methods are used only when the main options for protection against unwanted pregnancy have failed or unplanned sexual contact has occurred. In this case, birth control pills must be taken within the next 72 hours after an unprotected intercourse. Moreover, the earlier the pill is taken, the higher the likelihood that conception will not occur.

So, taking an emergency contraceptive within 24 hours after an unprotected act provides an effectiveness of about 95%. When using a birth control pill within 48 hours, the chance of conception increases by 10 percent. If a woman takes the drug by the end of the third day, the result will be only 55-60%. That is, the effectiveness of emergency contraception decreases every day, so it is recommended to take the pill as soon as possible (preferably within 24 hours after intercourse).

However, a woman should understand that taking such drugs on a regular basis is unacceptable, since a high concentration of hormones, which forms the basis of drugs, negatively affects not only reproductive function, but also the entire body as a whole. According to WHO recommendations, emergency contraceptives can be taken no more than 2-3 times a year.

At the same time, it is believed that the use of emergency contraceptives is the most gentle alternative to surgical termination of pregnancy (abortion). You just need to know how to properly take birth control pills after intercourse and not abuse these medications.

When do women seek emergency help?

Indications for the use of emergency contraception are the following situations:

• unprotected intercourse with an unfamiliar sexual partner;
• the method of barrier contraception used was unreliable (for example, the condom broke, the spiral fell out);
• an oral contraceptive was missed;
• unprotected contact occurred as a result of sexual violence.

In some cases, an indication for taking emergency contraceptives is a course of treatment with drugs (antibiotics, diuretics) that reduce the effectiveness of permanent oral contraceptives prescribed by a woman's doctor.

Contraindications

While modern emergency contraceptives are safer and more effective than first-generation birth control pills, they are not completely harmless. Experts warn that they should be taken no more than once every 3-6 months. More frequent use can cause various gynecological diseases, ectopic pregnancy and subsequent problems with conception. Such funds have an impressive list of contraindications, which must be familiarized with before the first use. Main restrictions for use:

• pathology of the liver and kidneys;
• age up to 16 years;
• varicose veins, venous insufficiency;
• thromboembolism;
• instability of the menstrual cycle;
• uterine bleeding;
• blood clotting disorders;
• period of pregnancy and lactation;
• individual intolerance to the components of the drug;
• severe chronic diseases.

After taking emergency birth control pills, side effects may develop. The most common of them:

• nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhea;
• dizziness, headaches;
• painful swelling of the mammary glands;
• weakness, increased fatigue;
• pain in the lower abdomen, menstrual irregularities.

Not uncommon and uterine bleeding, which develops in 10% of women. It is not recommended to prescribe such funds to women after 35 years of age (especially those who smoke). These drugs contain huge doses of hormones that can easily provoke hormonal imbalances. Therefore, this type of protection should be used with extreme caution, and before using it, be sure to consult a doctor and clarify possible contraindications.

Mechanism of action

The principle of action of emergency drugs is based on the inhibition of conception at the initial stage and the impossibility of the development of a fertilized egg. To date, there are 2 types of tablets:

1. preparations based on levonorgestrel (, Eskinor F);
2. contraceptive pills after the act based on mifepristone (Miropristone, Mifegin, Genale).

In general, the effect of drugs with levonorgestrel is that the action of the active substance is aimed at blocking or delaying ovulation (the release of a mature egg from the ovary). Additionally, levonorgestrel changes the composition of cervical mucus, making it thicker and more viscous. Due to this, the process of penetration of spermatozoa into the uterus is significantly hampered. In addition, if fertilization does occur, levonorgestrel prevents the introduction of the egg into the uterine mucosa due to structural changes in the endometrium.

The action of drugs from the second group is largely similar. Contraceptive pills after an act based on mifepristone also inhibit ovulation and exhibit antiprogestogenic activity, that is, they block receptors that respond to the pregnancy hormone (progesterone). As a result, the endometrium of the uterus does not undergo changes necessary for the successful implantation of a fertilized egg. In addition, active substances accelerate the contractile activity of the uterus and contribute to the removal of an unattached egg from its cavity.

Which contraceptive pills are best, how to take them correctly and which means should be preferred as an emergency remedy after unprotected intercourse? The answer to these questions will help you find an overview of the most popular and sought-after drugs.

Birth control pills after intercourse within 72 hours

When using emergency contraceptive methods, it should be borne in mind that these are strong post-intercourse contraceptive pills with a high content of hormones that cannot be used for the purpose of regular protection. To do this, there are oral contraceptives - birth control pills with a low dose of hormones, which should be taken constantly. They have a slightly different mechanism of action aimed at suppressing ovulation.

Emergency contraceptive pills or “next day pills” are quite effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy, but due to the huge dose of active substances, they provoke hormonal imbalance. Therefore, the female body after the use of such funds needs to be restored, it takes a certain time for the reproductive functions to be fully restored. Today, a woman can purchase emergency funds at any pharmacy.

We list the names of birth control pills after the act, which can protect against an unplanned pregnancy:

• Postinor;
• Eskinor F;
• Mifetin;
• Mytholian;
• Genale;
• Ministizon.

It is advisable to take these funds within a day after unprotected intercourse. In addition, in order to prevent conception, you can use combined oral contraceptives, which contain a large dose of female hormones - progestogen, levonorgestrel, progestogen or estrogen.

When using them, you must strictly follow the instructions and observe the indicated dosage, since the action of such medications is aimed at rejection of the endometrium, which, if the dose is exceeded, can cause uterine bleeding. Of the drugs in this group, the following drugs are most in demand:

• Ovidon;
• Regevidon;
• Non-Ovlon;
• Silest;
• Regulon.

Let's take a closer look at the most popular tools and talk about how to use them.

Good and effective birth control pills after the act: a list with names

Postinor

One of the most effective emergency contraceptives that prevent ovulation and fertilization. This tool has been present on the pharmaceutical market for more than a dozen years. The basis of the drug is a synthetically created analogue of the hormone levonorgestrel, the content of which in Postinor is much higher than in planned birth control pills. So, the basis of each tablet is 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel + excipients.

It is recommended to take Postinor after meals (to reduce the gag reflex) with an interval of at least 12 hours. That is, the first tablet should be taken within 48 hours (maximum 72 hours) after unprotected intercourse, and the second tablet should be taken 12 hours after the first. The instruction to the drug notes that with the correct use of the drug, its effectiveness reaches 95%.

However, the longer the time interval between sexual intercourse and taking the pill, the higher the likelihood of pregnancy. So, by the end of the third day, the effectiveness of Postinor decreases to 58%. You can take the tablets at any stage of the menstrual cycle. If vomiting occurs within three hours after taking the drug, the Postinor tablet should be taken again.

Contraindications for admission are conditions such as thrombosis, hypertension, bleeding disorders, liver and kidney diseases, oncological and cardiovascular pathologies, hypersensitivity to the drug, pregnancy and lactation.

With extreme caution, Postinor should be prescribed for diseases of the biliary tract and inflammatory lesions of the bladder. Among the side effects are the occurrence of uterine bleeding, nausea, abdominal pain, migraine, menstrual irregularities, and allergic reactions. The cost of Postinor tablets (2 pcs in a pack) is from 350 rubles.

The basis of the drug is the same active ingredient - levonorgestrel, but unlike Postinor, its dosage is doubled. Each Escapel capsule contains 1.5 mg of the active ingredient, so a single tablet intake is sufficient within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.

Contraindications and side effects for Escapel and Postinor are almost identical. In addition, Escapel cannot be used for jaundice (even if the woman has already had jaundice in the past) and Crohn's disease. This means of postcoital contraception can be used in any phase of the menstrual cycle. If after taking the drug there is an attack of vomiting or diarrhea appears, the tablet should be repeated.

Taking these drugs (Escapela and Postinora) does not affect the fetus. That is, if you unknowingly took the drug when you were already pregnant, there is no need to have an abortion. These contraceptives do not have a negative impact on the development and formation of the child. Escapela price (1 piece) - from 300 rubles.

A contraceptive based on the active substance mifepristone, which blocks the action of the pregnancy hormone (progesterone). It is a steroidal antiprogestogen drug that is effective within 72 hours after intercourse. To achieve the maximum contraceptive effect, it is necessary to refrain from eating 2 hours before taking the Ginepristone tablet and not to eat for another 2 hours after drinking the drug.

Contraindications to the use of contraceptives are acute and chronic renal and hepatic failure, long-term use of glucocorticosteroids, blood clotting disorders, cardiovascular pathologies, hypertension, hypersensitivity.

Of the side effects, systemic reactions from the digestive, nervous system, manifestations of allergies, as well as menstrual irregularities and the appearance of bloody discharge from the genital tract are possible. The price of the drug (1 pc) - from 180 rubles.

This remedy differs from other postcoital contraceptive pills in that it can be used for medical abortion. This means that, like other means, a Mifepristone tablet can be drunk within 3 days after an unprotected act, or used to terminate a pregnancy that does not exceed 6 weeks.

The action of the drug is based on blocking progesterone receptors and increasing the tone of the uterus. 1 tablet of Mifepristone contains 200 mg of the active substance of the same name + auxiliary components. Each package of the drug contains 3 or 6 pieces of light yellow tablets. This tool has an extensive list of contraindications and side effects, so it should be taken after consulting with your doctor.

Termination of pregnancy in the early stages should be carried out in a medical institution under the supervision of doctors. To do this, a woman should drink three tablets at once 1.5 hours after a meal, drinking the drug with a sufficient amount of water. Mifepristone is a potent drug, so it is released from pharmacies only by prescription.

Ovidon (Non - Ovlon, Rigevidon, Silest) and other combined contraceptive pills after the act.

You should start taking birth control pills no later than 72 hours after unprotected contact. Such oral contraceptives are intended for continuous use (1 tablet per day), but in emergency cases it is allowed to use them as an "ambulance" in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The main thing is to correctly calculate the required dose in such a way as to achieve the desired effect without harming the body.

Consequences of taking postcoital contraceptive pills

Before starting the use of emergency contraception, every woman should be aware of the negative consequences of their use. Taking birth control pills with a high concentration of hormones can lead to the following complications:

• uterine bleeding;
• menstrual irregularities;
• the risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy;
• violation of reproductive function (infertility);
• violation of hemostasis, leading to the formation of blood clots;
• bowel disease (Crohn's disease).

In addition to dangerous complications, a woman, while taking such drugs, encounters unpleasant side reactions - swelling and soreness of the mammary glands, nausea, bouts of vomiting, pulling pains in the lower abdomen, migraines. In addition, in the reviews, many mention allergic reactions and emotional instability, expressed in increased irritability and hysteria.

Therefore, before deciding to take postcoital pills, every woman should find out possible contraindications and take into account the likely risks from using high-dose oral contraceptives.