Morning-after-pill NorLevo® and oral contraceptives in Japan

Oral contraceptive (levonorgestrel) NorLevo® was released for prescription in Japan in April 2016. It is better known as Plan B (morning after pill) in the United States. This pill is a single pill you take by mouth. It must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex or birth control failure to help prevent pregnancy. The sooner you take it, the better it will work for you.

When used as directed, oral contraceptives are generally safe and effective. But it shouldn’t be used as regular birth control because it’s not as effective. Some may experience side effects, such as Nausea, Abdominal cramps, Fatigue, Headache, Dizziness, Breast tenderness, Vomiting, and a period that is lighter, heavier, early, or late. It is used for emergency contraception only and not during pregnancy. Please note that his pill will not protect you against HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

You will know it worked when you get your next period, which should come at the expected time. If your period is more than a week late, it is possible you may be pregnant. You should get a pregnancy test and follow up with your doctor. If you have questions, call us at 03-4405-6210 and talk with one of our nurses.