Ovral L Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- Chest pain or pressure that may radiate to the arm or jaw.
- Severe headache with vision changes or confusion.
- Swelling, pain, or redness in one leg.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
- Severe abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding that is heavy or persistent.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is levora tablet used for?
This medicine is a combined oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg and levonorgestrel 0.15 mg. It prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining. It is taken once daily at the same time each day, following the pack instructions. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- Generic Name: Ethinyl Estradiol (0.03mg) + Levonorgestrel (0.15mg)
- Manufacturer: Relax Pharma
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 levora tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एक संयुक्त मौखिक गर्भनिरोधक गोली है जिसमें एथिनाइल एस्ट्राडियोल 0.03 मिलीग्राम और लेवोनोर्जेस्ट्रेल 0.15 मिलीग्राम होता है। यह गर्भावस्था को रोकने के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह अंडोत्सर्ग को रोककर, गर्भाशय ग्रीवा के बलगम को गाढ़ा करके और गर्भाशय की परत को पतला करके काम करती है। इसका उपयोग अनियमित मासिक धर्म, दर्दनाक मासिक धर्म, और मुँहासे के इलाज में भी किया जा सकता है। यह दवा यौन संचारित संक्रमणों से नहीं बचाती है, इसलिए कंडोम का उपयोग करना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, सिरदर्द, स्तन में कोमलता, मनोदशा में बदलाव, और अनियमित रक्तस्राव शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर कुछ महीनों में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें रक्त के थक्के, स्ट्रोक, दिल का दौरा, और यकृत की समस्याएं शामिल हो सकती हैं। यदि सांस लेने में कठिनाई, सीने में दर्द, गंभीर सिरदर्द, दृष्टि में बदलाव, या एक पैर में सूजन हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को हर दिन एक ही समय पर लें, भोजन के बाद लेना बेहतर है। कोई भी खुराक न छोड़ें, क्योंकि इससे गर्भावस्था का खतरा बढ़ सकता है। पहले सात दिनों तक और यदि कोई गोली छूट जाए तो बैकअप कंडोम का उपयोग करें। धूम्रपान न करें, खासकर 35 वर्ष से अधिक उम्र में, क्योंकि इससे रक्त के थक्के और हृदय रोग का खतरा बढ़ जाता है। नियमित रूप से रक्तचाप, स्तन परीक्षण, और अन्य जांच करवाते रहें।
💊 levora tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Prevention of pregnancy","description":"This medicine is primarily used as a combined oral contraceptive to prevent pregnancy when taken as directed.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Menstrual cycle regulation","description":"It can help make periods more regular, lighter, and less painful in women with irregular or heavy bleeding.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acne vulgaris","description":"May be prescribed to reduce acne in women who also need contraception, due to its anti-androgenic effects.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)","description":"Can reduce physical and emotional symptoms of PMS in some women when used cyclically.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) management","description":"Sometimes used to regulate cycles and reduce androgen-related symptoms in PCOS, but not a primary treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Endometriosis pain","description":"May be used off-label to reduce pelvic pain associated with endometriosis by suppressing ovulation.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Contraception
Also treats: Menstrual irregularities, Acne vulgaris, Premenstrual syndrome
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Ethinyl Estradiol (0.03mg) + Levonorgestrel (0.15mg) |
| Brand Name | levora tablet |
| Manufacturer | Relax Pharma |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | GYNAECOLOGICAL |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original blister pack or container, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate or freeze. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization recognizes combined oral contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel as effective and safe for most women of reproductive age when used as directed. WHO medical eligibility criteria should be followed to assess individual suitability. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research supports the use of combined oral contraceptives for contraception and cycle regulation, with appropriate screening for contraindications and regular monitoring as per national family planning guidelines. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine prevents pregnancy through multiple complementary actions. Ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel together suppress the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus, which reduces follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone secretion from the pituitary. This prevents the surge of luteinizing hormone needed for ovulation. Additionally, levonorgestrel thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and alters the endometrial lining so that a fertilized egg is less likely to implant. These effects work together to provide reliable contraception when the medicine is taken consistently.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take levora tablet
Strength: Each tablet contains ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg and levonorgestrel 0.15 mg. The pack typically contains 21 active tablets and 7 inactive tablets.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally once daily at the same time each day, following the pack instructions. For contraception, start on the first day of menstruation or as directed by your clinician. If starting at another time, use backup contraception for the first 7 days. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on your medical history, risk factors, and concurrent medications. Do not adjust the dose without medical advice. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. This medicine is not intended for use in children or adolescents before menarche. Consult a pediatrician or gynecologist for appropriate contraceptive advice for adolescents. |
| Elderly Dosage | This medicine is not indicated for use in postmenopausal women. Safety and efficacy have not been established in women over 65 years of age. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment or in women on dialysis, as the effects on fluid balance and blood pressure may be unpredictable. Consult a nephrologist for individualized advice. |
| Hepatic Impairment | This medicine is contraindicated in women with severe hepatic impairment, active liver disease, or a history of liver tumors. In mild to moderate hepatic impairment, use with caution and under close medical supervision. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on liver function tests. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | One tablet per day. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of levora tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Rifampicin | Major | |
| Carbamazepine | Major | |
| St. John's wort | Major | |
| Protease inhibitors | Major | |
| Amoxicillin | Moderate | |
| Ketoconazole | Moderate | |
| Corticosteroids | Moderate | |
| Paracetamol | Minor | |
| Ascorbic acid | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Rifampicin and rifabutin
- Carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and primidone
- St. John's wort
- Protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, nelfinavir)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, doxycycline)
- Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- Corticosteroids
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally not contraindicated, but heavy drinking can increase the risk of liver problems and may affect the metabolism of this medicine. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["History of or current venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism).","History of or current arterial thromboembolism (heart attack, stroke).","Known thrombophilic disorders (e.g., factor V Leiden deficiency, antithrombin deficiency).","Current or history of breast cancer or other estrogen-sensitive cancers.","Severe liver disease, liver tumors, or acute hepatitis.","Uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure ≥160/100 mmHg).","Diabetes with vascular complications.","Smoking more than 15 cigarettes per day and age over 35 years.","Known or suspected pregnancy.","Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.","Use with caution in women with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as obesity, smoking, or family history.","Stop this medicine at least 4 weeks before major surgery and during prolonged immobilization to reduce clot risk.","Inform your doctor if you have migraine with aura, as this increases stroke risk.","This medicine may cause fluid retention and worsen conditions like epilepsy, migraine, and asthma.","Regular follow-up is essential to monitor blood pressure, weight, and any new symptoms."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. Small amounts of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel are excreted in breast milk, but no serious adverse effects have been reported in infants. However, it may reduce milk supply in some women. Consult your doctor to choose the best contraceptive option while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine may cause nausea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, and breast tenderness. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. If a large overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. In case of accidental ingestion by children, contact a poison control center or emergency department.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. If you miss two or more active pills, take one pill as soon as you remember and continue the rest of the pack as usual, but use backup contraception for the next 7 days. If you miss pills in the last week of the pack, skip the inactive pills and start a new pack immediately. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine at the same time each day, preferably after a meal, to maintain steady hormone levels and reduce stomach upset. Do not skip doses, as this can increase the risk of pregnancy. Use backup contraception such as condoms for the first seven days of the first pack and if you miss a pill. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, including antibiotics, antifungals, and herbal supplements like St. John's wort, as these can reduce effectiveness. Avoid smoking while using this medicine, especially if you are over 35, because it significantly increases the risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events. Attend regular check-ups for blood pressure, breast examination, and cervical screening as advised by your clinician.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
This medicine is not indicated for use in postmenopausal women. Safety and efficacy have not been established in women over 65 years of age.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor. Fertility typically returns to normal after stopping, but it may take a few months for cycles to regularize. Use alternative contraception until you are ready to conceive.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Stop this medicine at least 4 weeks before major surgery and during prolonged immobilization to reduce the risk of blood clots. Resume only after consulting your surgeon and gynecologist.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, especially if you are scheduled for surgery or have a history of bleeding disorders. No specific precautions are usually needed for routine dental work.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine does not usually limit exercise, but if you experience dizziness, leg swelling, or shortness of breath, avoid strenuous activity and consult your doctor. Regular moderate exercise is encouraged for overall health.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause mild side effects like nausea or mood changes that could affect concentration. If you experience dizziness or vision changes, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Most women can continue their normal daily activities without significant disruption.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. You may need to stop if you develop serious side effects such as blood clots, severe headache, vision loss, or if you become pregnant. Your doctor may also advise stopping before major surgery or during prolonged immobilization. Always seek medical advice before discontinuing.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe for most women, but it may increase the risk of blood clots, cardiovascular events, and certain cancers (such as breast and cervical cancer) with prolonged use. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, breast health, and cervical screening is recommended. The benefits of contraception often outweigh the risks for healthy women. Discuss with your doctor periodically to reassess suitability.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
An alternative oral contraceptive for women who cannot take estrogen.
Evidence: Well-establishedA long-acting reversible contraceptive method.
Evidence: Well-establishedCondoms and diaphragms provide protection against pregnancy and some STIs.
Evidence: Well-establishedTracking cycles to avoid intercourse during fertile days, but less effective than hormonal methods.
Evidence: Moderate💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with most vaccines. However, if you receive a live vaccine, consult your doctor as a precaution. There is no need to stop this medicine before routine vaccinations.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C).
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate or freeze.
✅ DO
Keep in the original blister pack or container.
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers.
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet.
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children.
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date.
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. If crossing time zones, continue taking the pill at the same time according to your home schedule, or adjust gradually as advised by your doctor. Store away from direct sunlight and moisture. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines in your destination country.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working immediately if taken on the first day of your period. If started at another time, it takes about 7 days to become effective, so use backup contraception during that time.
A: If you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember. If you miss two or more, take one as soon as you remember and use backup contraception for 7 days. Follow the missed dose instructions in the pack.
A: Smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, especially if you are over 35. It is strongly advised to stop smoking before using this medicine.
A: Some women may experience slight weight gain due to fluid retention, but it is not universal. If you notice significant weight changes, consult your doctor.
A: It is generally considered safe, but it may reduce milk supply. Consult your doctor to choose the best contraceptive option for you and your baby.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for levora tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
Mala D TabletDeys Medical ₹5.00 78.7% CHEAPER
-
bandhan 0.03mg/0.15mg tabletZydus Cadila ₹20.80 11.3% CHEAPER
-
choice tabletDKT India Ltd ₹30.00 28% COSTLIER
-
pearl oral contraceptive pills with iron (2 cycle pack)PSI India Pvt Ltd ₹30.00 28% COSTLIER
-
trust tabletJanani ₹30.00 28% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine causes permanent infertility.
Fact: This medicine does not cause permanent infertility. Fertility returns to normal after stopping the medicine, though it may take a few months for cycles to regularize. - Myth: You need to take a break from this medicine every few years.
Fact: There is no medical need to take a break from this medicine. It can be used continuously as long as it is safe for you and you have no contraindications. - Myth: This medicine protects against sexually transmitted infections.
Fact: This medicine does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms for protection. - Myth: Taking this medicine with food reduces its effectiveness.
Fact: Food does not significantly affect the effectiveness of this medicine. Taking it with food can help reduce nausea.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Ethinyl estradiol + levonorgestrel generic
Brand Alternatives
- Ovral L
- Mala L
- Femilon