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Aftera

Generic Name: Levonorgestrel (Systemic) (LEE voe nor jes trel)
Brand Name: Aftera, EContra EZ, EContra One-Step, Fallback Solo, My Choice, ...show all 12 brand names.

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 18, 2020.

Uses of Aftera:

  • It is used to lower the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Aftera?

  • If you are allergic to Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)); any part of Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
  • If you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Do not take Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)) if you are pregnant.

This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Aftera?

  • Tell all of your health care providers that you take Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
  • This medicine does not stop the spread of diseases like HIV or hepatitis that are passed through having sex. Do not have any kind of sex without using a latex or polyurethane condom. If you have questions, talk with your doctor.
  • This medicine will not end a pregnancy.
  • This medicine is not for regular use to prevent pregnancy.
  • Use birth control that you can trust to prevent pregnancy.
  • Certain drugs or herbal products could cause Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)) to not work as well. Be sure your doctor and pharmacist know about all of your drugs.
  • If your period is delayed for more than 7 days, talk with your doctor.
  • Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.

How is this medicine (Aftera) best taken?

Use Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

  • Take Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)) within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Take it as soon as you can.
  • If you throw up within 2 hours of taking Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)), you may need to take 1 more dose. Call your doctor right away.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

  • Call your doctor to find out what to do.
  • Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

See also:

Aftera dosage information (in more detail)

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Very bad belly pain.

What are some other side effects of Aftera?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

  • Headache.
  • Upset stomach or throwing up.
  • Breast soreness.
  • Feeling dizzy, tired, or weak.
  • Period (menstrual) changes.
  • Stomach pain.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

See also:

Aftera side effects (in more detail)

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Aftera?

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
  • Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer information use

  • If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
  • Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
  • Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Aftera (levonorgestrel (systemic)), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
  • If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Related questions

Medical Disclaimer

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