Use of 0.75 mg Levonorgestrel for postcoital contraception in Thailand

Sanguan Lerkiatbundit, Asst. Prof., D. of Pharmaceutical Ad., F. of Pharmaceutical Sci., PSU.
Wantana Reanmongkol, Assoc. Prof., D. of Clinical Pharmacy., F. of Pharmaceutical Sci., PSU.
Corresponding e-mail : lsanguan@makok.pharmacy.psu.ac.th

Grant : Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sci., PSU.
Published : J of Clin Phar and Ther 2000, 25(3) : 185-190.
Key words : Levonorgestrel, postcoital contraception, emergency contraception, drug abuse, contraception

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

Method : The eligible subjects were 100 Thai women who had used 0.75 mg LNG for at least once in the past 12 months. The participants completed a questionnaire at the survey sites, which were 7 pharmacies or 5 shopping malls.

Results : Eight percent of LNG users had never used any other contraceptive methods before except for day count and withdrawal. Thirty nine percent took more than 4 tablets of LNG a month, which was the limit instructed in the label. Only 3 percent used LNG for emergency situations such as having unprotected intercourse or condom burst. At least 22 percent of subjects took LNG ac- cording to the old instruction, which had been revised for two years. 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 and 32 percent of subjects experienced cycle disturbances and nausea, respectively.

Conclusion : The results suggest Thai FDA give a serious consideration in revising the label to be the one consistent to those recommended by WHO, and providing the relevant education directed to communities.

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