Use of 0.75 mg Levonorgestrel for postcoital contraception in Thailand

This study identified the pattern of Levonorgestrel (LNG) use and self-reported side-effects among Thai women in Songkla.

The eligible subjects were 100 Thai women who had used 0.75 mg LNG at least once in the past 12 months. The participants completed a questionnaire at the survey sites, which were seven pharmacies and five shopping malls.

Eight percent of LNG users had never used any contraceptive methods other than day count and withdrawal. Thirty-nine percent took more than four tablets of LNG per month, which was the limit instructed in the label. Only 3% used LNG for emergency situations such as having unprotected intercourse or burst condom. At least 22% of subjects took LNG according to instructions which were last revised 2 years earlier. The study also revealed poor knowledge among the users on side-effects and limit of drug use. Compared to the previous studies, this study found a higher incidence of side-effects. Forty-four percent of subjects experienced cycle disturbances and 32% nausea, respectively.

The Thai FDA should seriously consider requiring manufacturers to revise labels of LNG to be consistent with those recommended by WHO.