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.