Aftera® (levonorgestrel 1.5mg)

Emergency Contraception that helps prevent pregnancy after birth control failure or unprotected sex

What is Aftera^®?

Aftera^® is emergency contraception that helps prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after birth control failure or unprotected sex. The sooner it's taken, the better it works. It is a backup method of preventing pregnancy and should not be used as regular birth control because it's not as effective.

What Aftera^® is not.

Aftera^® will not work if you are already pregnant and will not affect an existing pregnancy. Aftera^® will not protect you from HIV infection (the virus that causes AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

When should I use Aftera^®?

The sooner you take emergency contraception, the better it works. You should use Aftera^® within 72 hours (3 days) after you have had unprotected sex.

Aftera^® is a backup or emergency method of birth control you can use when:

• Your regular birth control was used incorrectly or failed
• You did not use any birth control method

When not to use Aftera^®.

Aftera^® should not be used:

• as a regular birth control method, because it's not as effective as regular birth control.
• if you are already pregnant, because it will not work.
• if you are allergic to levonorgestrel or any other ingredients in Aftera^®

How does Aftera^® work?

Aftera^® is one tablet with levonorgestrel, a hormone that has been used in many birth control pills for several decades. Aftera^® contains a higher dose of levonorgestrel than birth control pills, but works in a similar way to prevent pregnancy. It works mainly by stopping the release of an egg from the ovary. It is possible that Aftera^® may also work by preventing fertilization of an egg (the uniting of sperm with the egg) or by preventing attachment (implantation) to the uterus (womb).

Where can I find Aftera^®?

Aftera^® is available over the counter. You simply take it off the shelf and bring it to the cashier. No prescription or ID is required, and there is no age restriction.

How can I get the best results from Aftera^®?

You have up to 72 hours (3 days) to try to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. The sooner you take Aftera^®, the better it works.

How effective is Aftera^®?

If Aftera^® is taken as directed, it can significantly decrease the chance that you will get pregnant. About 7 out of every 8 women who would have gotten pregnant will not become pregnant after taking Aftera^®.

How will I know if Aftera^® worked?

You will know Aftera^® has been effective when you get your next period, which should come at the expected time, or within a week of the expected time. If your period is delayed beyond 1 week, it is possible you may be pregnant. You should get a pregnancy test and follow up with your healthcare professional.

What are some possible side effects of Aftera^®?

• Some women may have changes in their periods, such as a period that is heavier or lighter or a period that is early or late. If your period is more than a week late, you may be pregnant, and should follow up with your healthcare professional.

• If you have severe abdominal pain, you may have an ectopic pregnancy, and should get immediate medical attention.
• When used as directed, Aftera^® is generally safe and effective. Side effects may include changes in your period, nausea, lower stomach (abdominal) pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness.
• If you vomit within 2 hours of taking medication, call a healthcare professional to find out if you should repeat the dose.

How long after taking Aftera^® can I resume my regular birth control?

You should resume your regular method of contraception—or start one, if you don't have a regular method—right away, since Aftera^® does not protect against additional acts of unprotected sex.

What happens if I'm already pregnant and I take Aftera^®?

It will not work if you are already pregnant and it will not affect an existing pregnancy. If you have any concerns, please be sure to talk to your healthcare professional.

Can I take Aftera^® as my regular birth control method?

Aftera^® should not be taken as regular birth control. Aftera^® is not as effective as using a regular birth control method correctly and consistently. It is a backup method to be taken if your regular birth control fails, or if you have sex without birth control. If you have unprotected sex after taking Aftera^®, it will not prevent you from getting pregnant.

How often can I take Aftera^®?

Aftera^® should only be taken when emergency contraception is needed (when your primary birth control method fails or you forget to use birth control). You can take Aftera^® when you need it, but remember that it should never replace regular methods of birth control, as it isn't as effective.

Aftera^® doesn't provide long-term protection against future pregnancy—it works to prevent pregnancy after only one act of unprotected sex or birth control failure. If you are sexually active, even occasionally, see your healthcare professional or visit a clinic to find a method of birth control that suits you.

For more information, please contact Medical Information: 1-888-919-0780.