Contraindications of Plan B

Plan B is the commercial name used to describe levonorgestrel. Plan B is used as an emergency contraceptive pill that can be obtained without a prescription by women over the age of 17. Plan B can also be used by females under the age of 17, but a prescription is required. As with any medication, there are some contraindications associated with this contraceptive.

Pregnancy

• According to the Federal Drug Administration, Plan B is not effective at terminating an existing pregnancy. Plan B is to be used as an emergency contraceptive only, not to terminate pregnancy. There is a possibility that taking the medication if pregnancy is known or suspected could be dangerous to the developing fetus, although this has not been significantly noted by clinical evaluation.

Vaginal Bleeding

• Women who take Plan B may experience spotting for a few days after taking the medication. Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding is a contraindication because the medication may exacerbate the already existing condition. Any bleeding outside of normal menstrual cycles should be discussed with your gynecologist as soon as possible.

Hypersensitivity to Ingredients

• Plan B is a tablet made of only one ingredient, levonorgestrel. Levonorgestrel is a synthetically produced progestogen. Women who are sensitive to progestogen should not use this emergency contraceptive pill. Use of this product by hypersensitive individuals can result in the development of a rash or other unpleasant side effects.

Drug Interactions

• Although not a contraindication, it should be noted that the effectiveness of the medication may be decreased if taken in conjunction with other medications or supplements. Barbiturates and St. John's wort are just two of the medications listed by the FDA that could decrease the effectiveness of the pill.