Side Effects of levonorgestrel: A Synthesis of Findings from 12 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Levonorgestrel is a progestin used in various contraceptive methods, including intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, and oral contraceptives. These studies highlight the effectiveness and side effects associated with levonorgestrel.

Levonorgestrel IUDs have proven effective in treating excessive menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). 5 .

Levonorgestrel, when used as an oral contraceptive, might potentially reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. 11 .

Levonorgestrel has demonstrated greater efficacy and fewer side effects compared to the Yuzpe regimen when used as an oral contraceptive. .

Reasons for Side Effects

Side effects associated with levonorgestrel are primarily attributed to alterations in hormone balance. Levonorgestrel mimics progesterone, which can thin the uterine lining and inhibit follicle growth. These actions can lead to diverse side effects.

Common Side Effects

Menstrual Irregularities

Levonorgestrel can cause changes in menstrual cycles and breakthrough bleeding. 7 , 6 , 3 , 10 . These symptoms typically improve within a few months of starting levonorgestrel. 10 . However, in some individuals, these symptoms might persist or worsen. 10 .

Mood Changes

Levonorgestrel can lead to side effects such as mood swings, depression, and anxiety. 7 .

Nausea and Vomiting

Levonorgestrel can cause digestive system side effects such as nausea and vomiting. 7 .

Weight Gain

Levonorgestrel has the potential to cause weight gain. 7 .

Headache

Levonorgestrel can trigger headaches. 7 .

Breast Pain or Tenderness

Levonorgestrel can cause breast pain or tenderness. 7 .

Other Side Effects

Levonorgestrel might cause side effects such as skin problems, vaginal dryness, and decreased libido. 10 , 7 .

Managing Side Effects

Menstrual Irregularities

If you experience menstrual irregularities, consult with your doctor. They may adjust the levonorgestrel dosage or suggest alternative contraceptive methods to help alleviate your symptoms.

Mood Changes

If you are concerned about mood changes, discuss them with your doctor. They may recommend treatments such as antidepressants or counseling.

Other Side Effects

For any other concerning side effects, seek advice from your doctor. They can suggest appropriate treatment options to help manage your symptoms.

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities Between Studies

These studies indicate that levonorgestrel is an effective contraceptive method. However, they also demonstrate that levonorgestrel can potentially cause a range of side effects.

Differences Between Studies

These studies highlight that the administration method, dosage, and type and severity of side effects associated with levonorgestrel can vary across studies. For instance, some studies show that levonorgestrel IUDs are effective in treating menorrhagia. However, other studies demonstrate that levonorgestrel IUDs might cause side effects such as vaginal dryness and decreased libido.

Considerations for Real-Life Application

Before using levonorgestrel, it is crucial to consult with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits. Levonorgestrel might not be suitable for all women. Your doctor can recommend the appropriate contraceptive method based on your health status and lifestyle.

Limitations of Current Research

These studies lack comprehensive investigations into the long-term effects of levonorgestrel. Additionally, these studies did not target women from specific racial or ethnic groups. Therefore, these research findings might not be universally applicable to all women.

Future Research Directions

Future research endeavors should focus on investigating the long-term impact of levonorgestrel and its effects on women from specific racial and ethnic groups.

Conclusion

Levonorgestrel is an effective contraceptive method, but it carries the potential for various side effects. When using levonorgestrel, it is essential to consult with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits.

Message and call to action for readers: If you have any concerns regarding the use of levonorgestrel, seek advice from your doctor.

Literature analysis of 12 papers
Positive Content
10
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
2
Article Type
3
0
0
1
12
1.

The influence of Microgynon and Diane-35, two sub-fifty ovulation inhibitors, on voice function in women.

Author: WendlerJ, SiegertC, SchelhornP, KlingerG, GurrS, KaufmannJ, AydinlikS, BraunschweigT

The study investigated the potential voice-related side effects of two oral contraceptives, Diane-35 and Microgynon, in 91 patients over a year. No significant side effects on voice function were observed.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

A comparison between monophasic levonorgestrel-ethinyl estradiol 150/30 and triphasic levonorgestrel-ethinyl estradiol 50-75-125/30-40-30 contraceptive pills for side effects and patient satisfaction: a study in Iran.

Author: KashanianMaryam, ShahpourianFarangis, ZareOmolbanin

Adverse effects

This study compared the adverse effects and patient satisfaction between two types of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs): monophasic levonorgestrel (LNG)-ethinyl estradiol (EE) 150/30 and triphasic LNG-EE 50-75-125/30-40-30.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

3.

The LNG-IUS study on adenomyosis: a 3-year follow-up study on the efficacy and side effects of the use of levonorgestrel intrauterine system for the treatment of dysmenorrhea associated with adenomyosis.

Author: ShengJie, ZhangWei Yuan, ZhangJian Ping, LuDan

Improved satisfaction
Reduced dysmenorrhea
Abdominal pain
Ovarian cysts
Weight gain

The LNG-IUS appears to be an effective method in alleviating dysmenorrhea associated with adenomyosis during 3 years.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

4.

Subendometrial microvascularization and uterine artery blood flow in IUD-induced side effects (levonorgestrel intrauterine system and copper intrauterine device).

Author: JiménezMirela F, VetoriDaniela, FagundesPaulo A P, de FreitasFernando M, Cunha-FilhoJoão S L

Therapeutic treatments
Understand IUD effects

This study quantified subendometrial microvascularization and uterine artery blood flow in patients using intrauterine devices (IUDs). The findings contribute to understanding the vascular changes associated with IUD-induced side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Efficacy, acceptability and side effects of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system for menorrhagia.

Author: KriplaniA, SinghB M, LalS, AgarwalN

Menorrhagia treatment
Amenorrhea
Device expulsion

The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) was found to be an effective and well-accepted option for the medical management of menorrhagia. In a prospective, open, nonrandomized clinical trial, 77.7% of patients experienced a cure at 3 months, and all patients were cured at 36 months. The LNG-IUS significantly decreased the mean number of bleeding days and subjective blood loss, and increased hemoglobin concentration. The most common side effect was intermenstrual spotting.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

6.

The efficacy, side-effects and continuation rates in women with symptomatic endometriosis undergoing treatment with an intra-uterine administered progestogen (levonorgestrel): a 3 year follow-up.

Author: LockhatFarhana B, EmemboluJoseph O, KonjeJustin C

Effective treatment
Side effects

This study investigated the efficacy, continuation rates, and side effects of a long-acting progestogen device in treating endometriosis over a 3-year period.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

9.

Evaluation of a 1-year levonorgestrel-releasing contraceptive implant: side effects, release rates, and biodegradability.

Author: DarneyP D, KlaisleC M, MonroeS E, CookC E, PhillipsN R, SchindlerA

Ovulation suppression
Abnormal bleeding patterns

A 4.0-cm biodegradable, subdermal contraceptive implant containing levonorgestrel effectively suppressed ovulation in 80% of cycles over 1 year of use. The implant was well tolerated with minor side effects typical of progestin-only contraception.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

10.

Microdose intravaginal levonorgestrel contraception: a multicentre clinical trial. I. Contraceptive efficacy and side effects. World Health Organization. Task Force on Long-Acting Systemic Agents for Fertility Regulation.

Author: KoetsawangS, JiG, KrishnaU, CuadrosA, DhallG I, WyssR, Rodriquez la PuentaJ, AndradeA T, KhanT, KononovaE S

Effective contraception
Low pregnancy rate
Menstrual disturbances
Ring expulsion
Vaginal symptoms

The WHO intravaginal ring releasing an average of 20 micrograms of levonorgestrel per 24 hours was an effective method of contraception for at least one year of use. The pregnancy rate was comparable to a low estrogen combination oral contraceptive and less than half that of a progestogen-only oral contraceptive.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.

Language : English

12.

Comparison of estrogenic components used for hormonal contraception.

Author: StanczykFrank Z, WinerSharon A, FoidartJean-Michel, ArcherDavid F

Ovulation inhibition
Reduced coagulant protein stimulation
Venous thromboembolism risk

This comparative analysis highlights the potential of estetrol (E<sub>4</sub>) as a safer alternative to ethinyl estradiol (EE) and estradiol (E<sub>2</sub>) in combined oral contraceptives (COCs). E<sub>4</sub> demonstrates comparable ovulation inhibition with potentially fewer side effects due to its lower potency and unique receptor binding properties.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

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