Levonorgestrel BP: What It Is, How It Works, and How to Use It Safely

If you’ve ever needed a backup plan after unprotected sex, you’ve probably heard of levonorgestrel BP. It’s the active ingredient in many over‑the‑counter emergency contraceptive pills. In plain terms, it’s a synthetic hormone that stops a pregnancy before it starts. The "BP" stands for "Bayer Pharmaceutical," the company that first marketed the formulation, but the chemistry is the same in most generic versions you’ll find today.

When and Why You Might Need Levonorgestrel BP

Levonorgestrel BP is meant for short‑term, not regular, use. You take it within 72 hours of intercourse, and the sooner, the better. Think of it as a safety net—you don’t need a prescription in many countries, but you do need to read the label carefully. The pill works by delaying ovulation, making it harder for sperm to meet an egg. It won’t terminate an existing pregnancy, so it’s not a medical abortifacient.

How to Take It and What to Expect

The standard dose is a single 1.5 mg tablet, or two 0.75 mg tablets taken 12 hours apart. Swallow it with water; food doesn’t affect absorption much, but taking it with food can reduce nausea. Speaking of side effects, most people feel mild nausea, a slight headache, or some spotting. Those symptoms usually fade in a day or two. If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you should take another dose because the medication might not have been absorbed.

Keep in mind that levonorgestrel BP isn’t as effective as your regular birth control method. It’s about 85 % effective when taken within the first 24 hours, and the effectiveness drops a bit after that. If you find yourself needing it frequently, consider a more reliable method like the pill, patch, or IUD.

Buying levonorgestrel BP online can be safe, but you need to watch out for red flags. Stick to pharmacies that require a prescription or at least verify your age, display a physical address, and have clear contact information. Look for certifications like the Verified Pharmacy seal or local regulatory approvals. Prices can vary, so compare a few reputable sites before you click ‘buy.’ Avoid sellers that promise “free shipping worldwide” without any proof of legitimacy—it’s often a scam.

Finally, store the pill at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. If you’re traveling, keep it in your carry‑on bag rather than checked luggage to avoid temperature extremes. And remember: levonorgestrel BP is a backup, not a primary method. Use it responsibly, and you’ll have one less worry if life throws you an unexpected curveball.