Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on January 3rd, 2026.
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone commonly used in emergency contraception and some birth control pills. It works primarily by preventing ovulation, thereby reducing the chance of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.
Levonorgestrel is safe for most people when used as directed. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and should not be used as a substitute for regular contraception.
Remember, timing is everything. The sooner levonorgestrel is taken after unprotected sex, the better it works. Understanding the correct dosage and timing is essential to maximize its effectiveness and minimize side effects. If you find yourself needing emergency contraception frequently, it’s a sign to discuss long-term birth control options with a healthcare provider. If you have any doubts or questions about dosing or side effects, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional through Doctronic.ai.
This guide breaks down how much levonorgestrel to take, when to take it, and what to expect. Whether you’re using it as a backup method or part of ongoing contraception, knowing the correct dose is key.
Form |
Strength |
Typical Adult Dose |
Typical Children’s Dose |
Frequency |
Route |
Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tablet (Emergency Contraceptive) |
1.5 mg |
1.5 mg once or 0.75 mg twice (12 hours apart) |
Not typically recommended for children |
Single dose or two doses 12 hours apart |
Oral |
1.5 mg per day |
Combined Oral Contraceptive (Low Dose) |
Varies (usually 0.1–0.15 mg per pill) |
Daily as prescribed |
Not typically recommended for children |
Once daily |
Oral |
As prescribed by the doctor |
The most common use of levonorgestrel is as an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP). The standard dose is 1.5 mg taken orally as a single dose, ideally within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Alternatively, some regimens suggest taking 0.75 mg twice, 12 hours apart.
Effectiveness decreases the longer you wait, so taking levonorgestrel as soon as possible is critical. It is not intended for regular contraception but as a backup method.
Levonorgestrel is also an active ingredient in some combined oral contraceptives and progestin-only pills. These are taken daily in lower doses, usually ranging from 0.1 to 0.15 mg per pill, depending on the formulation.
Daily dosing requires strict adherence to the schedule to maintain contraceptive effectiveness.
For emergency contraception, adults typically take a single 1.5 mg dose or two 0.75 mg doses 12 hours apart. This dose is considered safe and effective for most adult women.
For ongoing contraception, the dose is much lower and taken daily as part of a birth control pill regimen prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Levonorgestrel is generally not recommended for children or adolescents who have not reached puberty. For those who have an emergency contraception, dosing is the same as for adults, but it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
If you miss a dose of daily levonorgestrel-containing birth control pills, take them as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, take only one pill and continue your schedule. Missing doses can reduce contraceptive effectiveness and increase the risk of pregnancy.
For emergency contraception, since it’s a one-time or two-time dose, missing the window to take it means it may not be effective. In such cases, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
There is limited data on dose adjustment for levonorgestrel in patients with kidney or liver impairment. Generally, the standard emergency contraception dose is used, but consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for personalized guidance.
Some studies suggest that levonorgestrel may be less effective in individuals with higher body weight or BMI. In such cases, healthcare providers might recommend alternative emergency contraception methods. Personalized advice is essential here.
Levonorgestrel has a wide safety margin. Overdose is unlikely to cause serious harm but may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or irregular bleeding.
It is essential not to exceed the recommended dose. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.
Take levonorgestrel as soon as possible after unprotected sex for emergency contraception.
Do not use levonorgestrel as a regular birth control method; it is intended for emergency use only.
Consult a healthcare provider before starting daily contraceptive pills containing levonorgestrel.
If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking the pill, contact a healthcare provider as you may need to take another dose.
For personalized dosage information and questions, consider using telehealth services like Doctronic.ai, which offers 24/7 access to doctors who can help tailor advice to your needs.
Getting the correct dosage and timing for levonorgestrel can be confusing. That’s where Doctronic.ai comes in. This AI-powered telehealth platform offers personalized medical advice based on the latest peer-reviewed research and your unique health profile.
Doctronic’s AI doctor can answer your questions about levonorgestrel dosage, help you understand side effects, and connect you with licensed physicians for video visits anytime, anywhere in the U.S. This makes managing your reproductive health easier and more accessible than ever.
Take levonorgestrel as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours. Effectiveness decreases the longer you wait.
No, it is intended for emergency use only. For regular contraception, consult a healthcare provider about daily pills or other methods.
Yes, but it’s best to consult a healthcare professional, especially for those who have not yet started menstruating.
If vomiting occurs within 2 hours, contact a healthcare provider as you may need to take another dose.
Yes, services like Doctronic.ai provide personalized telehealth consultations to answer your questions and guide you safely.
Levonorgestrel is a reliable emergency contraceptive when taken correctly and promptly. Understanding the correct dose and timing is key to preventing unintended pregnancy. For ongoing contraception or complex questions about dosage, personalized medical advice is crucial.
Doctronic.ai offers convenient, expert guidance anytime you need it. Whether you have questions about emergency contraception or daily birth control pills, having access to a knowledgeable doctor can make all the difference.
Understanding Levonorgestrel Uses and DosagesLevonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone commonly used in emergency contraception and some birth control pills. It works primarily [...]
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