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Norlevo

Norlevo contains levonorgestrel, a progestogen used in the field of hormonal contraception and related gynaecological care. The brand is registered in 25 countries, a mid-range international footprint that places it in front of travellers and expatriates moving between Europe, parts of Asia, and several other regional markets.

Levonorgestrel-based products are prescribed across a range of indications recognised on this page, including emergency contraception, regular birth control, and certain gynaecological conditions such as menorrhagia and endometrial hyperplasia. The structured indication block further down details the registered uses as recorded for Norlevo in the markets where it is sold. The pharmacological category covers progestogen-based endocrine therapy and other gynecological applications, depending on the specific indication and formulation.

Norlevo is available across a diverse geography that includes France, Australia, Canada, India, and Lebanon, among others. Regulatory status varies considerably from one country to another — in some markets levonorgestrel emergency contraception is sold over the counter, in others it requires a prescription or pharmacist consultation, and in some jurisdictions age-related rules apply. Branding also differs, so a traveller looking for Norlevo abroad may instead find a different product containing the same active ingredient.

Other medications in the broader progestogen and hormonal-contraceptive class are sold worldwide under various names and in various formats, with meaningful differences in indication, route, and regulatory pathway. A local pharmacist can usually identify a regionally available levonorgestrel product or an appropriate alternative within the same class. Anyone using Norlevo, considering it, or trying to identify a local equivalent while abroad should speak with a healthcare provider, who can advise based on individual circumstances and the rules that apply in the country where the product is being sought.

Incompatibilities

Intrauterine therapy systemSubstance-powder

None known

Not applicable.

Preclinical safety data

Intrauterine therapy systemSubstance-powder

Levonorgestrel is a well established progestogen with anti-oestrogenic activity. The safety profile following systemic administration is well documented. A study in monkeys with intrauterine delivery of levonorgestrel for 12 months confirmed local pharmacological activity with good local tolerance and no signs of systemic toxicity. No embryotoxicity was seen in the rabbit following intrauterine administration of levonorgestrel.

Animal experiments with Norlevo have shown virilisation of female foetuses at high doses.

Preclinical data reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of safety pharmacology, repeat dose toxicity, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity potential, beyond the information included in other sections of the SmPC.

Pharmacotherapeutic group

Intrauterine therapy systemSubstance-powderPlastic IUD with progestogenEmergency contraceptives, ATC code: G03AD01

Special precautions for disposal and other handling

Intrauterine therapy systemSubstance-powder

Norlevo is supplied in a sterile pack which should not be opened until required for insertion. Each system should be handled with aseptic precautions. If the seal of the sterile envelope is broken, the system inside should be disposed of in accordance with the local guidelines for the handling of biohazardous waste. Likewise, a removed Norlevo and inserter should be disposed of in this manner. The outer carton package and the inner blister package can be handled as household waste.

No special requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What is Norlevo used for?

Norlevo is used in the area of hormonal contraception and related gynaecological care. Registered indications recorded for the product include emergency contraception, regular birth control, menorrhagia, and endometrial hyperplasia. The active ingredient belongs to the progestogen class within endocrine therapy for the genital system. The structured indication section below this introduction sets out each registered use as recognised in the markets where Norlevo is sold.

Which active substance is in Norlevo?

Norlevo contains levonorgestrel, a progestogen classified within sex hormones and modulators of the genital system. Levonorgestrel is one of the most widely used progestogens internationally and circulates under many brand names across both emergency contraception and regular hormonal contraception product categories. The same molecule may appear in tablets, intrauterine systems, and combined preparations depending on the country and indication.

In how many countries is Norlevo available?

Norlevo is registered in 25 countries, with a footprint that spans Western Europe, parts of the Middle East and South Asia, and selected markets further afield. Examples include France, Australia, India, Canada, Lebanon, Ireland, and Israel. If your country is not listed, a local pharmacist can usually confirm whether levonorgestrel is available locally, since the molecule is marketed under a variety of brand names worldwide.

Are there other medications with the same active ingredient as Norlevo?

Levonorgestrel is sold under several brand names internationally, both for emergency contraception and as part of regular hormonal contraceptive regimens, including some intrauterine devices. Other medications within the broader progestogen and hormonal-contraceptive class also exist, although they are not freely interchangeable — products differ in indication, route of administration, and regulatory status. To find a local levonorgestrel product, search the active ingredient on Pill2Trip or ask a pharmacist.

Is Norlevo a prescription medication?

Prescription status for levonorgestrel products varies significantly between countries. In some markets emergency contraception is available over the counter or via a pharmacist consultation, while in others a prescription is required, and age-related rules sometimes apply. For ongoing contraceptive needs or for indications such as menorrhagia or endometrial hyperplasia, a clinical assessment is generally expected. A healthcare provider familiar with local rules and your individual circumstances is the right person to advise.

Norlevo

Available in 25 countries