How many escapelles act in the human body. Escapelle instructions for use, contraindications, side effects, reviews. Interaction of Escapelle with other drugs

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Compound

Description of the dosage form

Flat, round tablets, white or off-white, bevelled and engraved “G00” on one side.

pharmachologic effect

Pharmacodynamics

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic gestagen with a contraceptive effect, pronounced gestagenic and antiestrogenic properties. With the recommended dosing regimen, levonorgestrel suppresses ovulation and fertilization if sexual intercourse occurs in the preovulatory phase, when the possibility of fertilization is greatest. It may also cause changes in the endometrium that prevent implantation. The drug is ineffective if implantation has already occurred.

Efficiency. It is recommended to start taking Escapelle ® as soon as possible (but no later than 72 hours) after sexual intercourse, if no protective measures have been taken. The more time passes between sexual intercourse and taking the drug, the lower its effectiveness (95% during the first 24 hours, 85% from 24 to 48 hours and 58% from 48 to 72 hours). At the recommended dose, levonorgestrel does not have a significant effect on blood clotting factors, fat and carbohydrate metabolism.

Pharmacokinetics

When taken orally, levonorgestrel is rapidly and almost completely absorbed. After taking one tablet of Escapel ® Cmax of the drug in serum equal to 18.5 ng/ml is achieved after 2 hours. After reaching Cmax, the content of levonorgestrel decreases and T1/2 is about 26 hours.

Levonorgestrel is excreted approximately equally by the kidneys and through the intestines exclusively in the form of metabolites. The biotransformation of levonorgestrel corresponds to the metabolism of steroids. Levonorgestrel is hydroxylated in the liver, and metabolites are excreted in the form of conjugated glucuronides. Pharmacologically active metabolites of levonorgestrel are unknown.

Levonorgestrel binds to serum albumin and SHBG. Only 1.5% of the total dose is in free form, and 65% is bound to SHBG. Absolute bioavailability is 100% of the dose taken.

Indications for the drug Escapelle ®

Emergency (postcoital) contraception (after unprotected sexual intercourse or if the contraceptive method used is unreliable).

Contraindications

hypersensitivity to any component of the drug;

severe liver failure;

patients with rare hereditary diseases such as lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption;

pregnancy;

adolescence (up to 16 years).

Carefully: diseases of the liver or biliary tract; jaundice (including history); Crohn's disease; lactation.

Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Escapelle ® should not be used during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while using an emergency method of contraception, it should be taken into account that, based on the available data, no adverse effect of the drug on the fetus has been identified.

Levonorgestrel passes into breast milk. After taking the drug, breastfeeding should be stopped for 24 hours.

Side effects

Allergic reactions are possible: hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face.

Transient side effects that occur with varying frequencies (often - ≥1/100,<1/10; очень часто — ≥1/10) и не требующие медикаментозной терапии.

Often - vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, breast tenderness, delayed menstruation (no more than 5-7 days), if menstruation is delayed for a longer period, it is necessary to exclude pregnancy; very often - nausea, fatigue, pain in the lower abdomen, acyclic spotting (bleeding).

Interaction

When taking drugs that induce liver enzymes simultaneously, the metabolism of levonorgestrel is accelerated.

The following drugs may reduce the effectiveness of levonorgestrel: amprecavil, lansoprazole, nevirapine, oxcarbazepine, tacrolimus, topiramate, tretinoin, barbiturates including primidone, phenytoin and carbamazepine; preparations containing St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), as well as rifampicin, ritonavir, ampicillin, tetracycline, rifabutin, griseofulvin.

Reduces the effectiveness of hypoglycemic and anticoagulant (coumarin derivatives, phenindione) drugs. Increases plasma concentrations of GCS. Women taking these drugs should consult a doctor.

Drugs containing levonorgestrel may increase the risk of cyclosporine toxicity due to inhibition of its metabolism.

Directions for use and doses

Inside. 1 table must be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. If vomiting occurs within 3 hours after taking the Escapelle ® tablet, then you should take 1 more tablet. Escapelle ® can be used at any time of the menstrual cycle. In case of irregular menstrual cycle, pregnancy must be excluded.

After taking emergency contraception, you should use a local barrier method of contraception (such as a condom) until your next period. The use of the drug during repeated unprotected sexual intercourse during one menstrual cycle is not recommended due to an increase in the frequency of acyclic spotting/bleeding.

Overdose

Symptoms: increased severity of side effects.

Treatment: symptomatic therapy. There is no specific antidote.

special instructions

Escapelle ® should be used exclusively for emergency contraception. Repeated use of Escapelle ® during one menstrual cycle is not recommended. Escapelle ® should be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. The effectiveness of emergency contraception with delayed use of the drug is significantly reduced.

The drug does not replace the use of permanent methods of contraception. In most cases, Escapelle ® does not affect the nature of the menstrual cycle. However, acyclic bleeding and a delay of menstruation for several days are possible. If menstruation is delayed by more than 5-7 days and its character changes (scanty or heavy discharge), pregnancy must be excluded. The appearance of pain in the lower abdomen and fainting may indicate an ectopic (ectopic) pregnancy.

Content

Emergency contraception is no longer new in the modern world. To protect against unwanted pregnancy, the pharmacological market provides women with many means, but the most popular are the Escapelle contraceptive pills. The therapeutic effect of the drug is based on the action of the main component - levonorgestrel. The active substance can influence the course of ovulation, reducing the risk of fertilization even during the preovulatory phase. Levonorgestrel acts on the endometrium, preventing implantation of a fertilized egg.

Instructions for use Escapela

The drug sometimes leads to a slight disruption of menstruation, but for most girls, blood flow occurs at the usual time. It is important to remember that these pills do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. After using the medication, you should definitely use barrier contraceptives, such as suppositories, condoms, intrauterine device, caps, etc.

The main advantage of the drug is that there is no need for additional tests; the pharmacological product can be taken immediately. However, doctors recommend that you carefully read the list of contraindications before using the pills. The use of the drug does not lead to a cumulative effect; if the recommended doses are observed, blood clotting factors remain unchanged.

Composition and release form

The medication belongs to the group of gestagenic postcoital contraceptives that prevent egg fertilization. The main component of the composition is levonorgestrel, for the absorption and effects of which additional substances presented in the table are responsible. Each package of the drug contains a blister with one round tablet. On one side of the pills there is a chamfer and engraving.

How does Escapelle work?

The main active ingredient of the drug has a direct effect on the uterine mucosa. The contraceptive prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg until the embryo is implanted. As soon as the process of attachment begins in the endometrium, the remedy will become useless. Escapelle is able to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse in 84% of cases, without causing clinically significant disorders.

The tablets do not affect the course of plasma and cellular hemostasis, therapy using the drug does not lead to pathological disorders of lipid or carbohydrate metabolism. Levonorgestrel is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, the bioavailability of the substance is close to 100%. The drug reaches maximum concentration in blood plasma approximately one and a half hours after taking a single dose (0.75 mg). About half of the ingested levonorgestrel comes into contact with the protein albumin, the other half with androgen-binding globulin.

The active component of the drug undergoes biotransformation in the liver. The metabolic products formed during this process are considered pharmacologically inactive. The half-life of the drug varies from 19 to 30 hours; levonorgestrel metabolites are excreted from the body through urine or along with intestinal contents. The substance can be transmitted through breast milk, therefore, when using tablets during lactation, it is recommended to interrupt feeding for 36 hours.

Indications for use

The contraceptive is indicated for use if emergency contraception is necessary. It is recommended to take the drug after unprotected sexual intercourse or if the existing method of contraception is not reliable enough. The tablet should be taken no later than 72 hours after sexual intercourse. It is advisable to use the medication if you miss taking birth control pills, if the integrity of the condom is broken, or after rape.

How to take

The drug should be used no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. The tablets are for oral use only. The patient should take the pill as soon as possible to ensure maximum therapeutic effect, since delayed use greatly reduces the effect of the contraceptive. If vomiting occurs a couple of hours after the procedure, the contraceptive must be taken again.

How often can you drink Escapelle?

The drug can be used at any time of the day and at every stage of the menstrual cycle. However, to prevent the development of negative reactions from the body, doctors recommend using the drug no more often than once every six months. According to the instructions for use, the optimal frequency of taking the product is one tablet during one menstrual cycle.

special instructions

Doctors recommend avoiding repeated use of Escapel during one cycle, as this can lead to menstrual dysfunction. With regular use of the drug, there is a decrease in the effectiveness of the substance and an increase in the incidence of adverse reactions from the body. Menstrual bleeding should begin no later than a week after taking the pill, otherwise you must visit a gynecologist to determine the cause of the delay.

Pain in the lower abdomen, changes in the nature of discharge, fainting - all these signs may indicate the presence of an ectopic pregnancy. To confirm the diagnosis, you should seek help from a doctor. The reason for consultation with a specialist is the occurrence of sudden uterine bleeding. Girls under 16 years of age are not recommended to use this contraceptive, except when prescribed by a gynecologist.

During pregnancy

The tablets are contraindicated for pregnant women, since they have no effect on the already formed fetus. According to scientific research, levonorgestrel does not have a negative effect on the fertilized egg if pregnancy occurs during therapy with postcoital contraceptive drugs. Breastfeeding women should not take the pills, as the substance is passed on to the baby through breast milk. If there is an urgent need to use the product, feeding should be stopped for a while.

Alcohol compatibility

The consequences of simultaneous intake of alcoholic beverages and this drug were not described in the instructions for use. In medical practice, this combination rarely causes complications. To process levonorgestrel, the body uses the liver, kidneys and intestines, which increases the load on these organs when used in parallel with alcohol. For this reason, doctors recommend avoiding such combinations.

Drug interactions

Tablets can interact with other substances. For example, the combination of a medication with a liver enzyme inducer leads to increased metabolism of levonorgestrel. The drug increases the level of plasma concentrations of glucocorticosteroids and reduces the effectiveness of anticoagulants. Some combinations of drugs can cause a decrease in the contraceptive effect of the pills, these include barbiturates, medications based on St. John's wort and drugs from the tetracycline group:

• Rifabutin;
• Carbamazepine;
• Griseofulvin;
• Primidone;
• Ritonavir;
• Phenytoin;
• Tretinoin;
• Amprenavir;
• Nevirapine;
• Tacrolimus;
• Rifampicin;
• Topiramate;
• Oxcarbazepine;
• Lansoprazole.

Side effects and consequences of use

The contraceptive is recognized by gynecologists as one of the most effective and safe medications. The drug is completely eliminated from the patient’s body within 24 hours after administration, so there is no categorical ban on the use of the substance even during lactation. According to scientific studies, one tablet of levonorgestrel (1.5 mg) is well tolerated by patients, but side effects of Escapel develop in every sixth woman. Most negative manifestations are similar to pregnancy symptoms and do not cause severe discomfort, these include:

• diarrhea;
• allergy;
• disruption of the menstrual cycle;
• swelling of the eyelids or cheeks;
• the appearance of bleeding after taking the pill;
• discomfort in the mammary glands;
• discomfort in the lower abdomen;
• the appearance of a rash on the body;
• coordination disorders;
• scabies;
• migraine-like headaches;
• vomit.

According to scientists, adverse reactions after taking the drug are much less likely to occur in women who lead a healthy lifestyle. The use of increased doses of levonorgestrel leads to an increase in the above-described negative manifestations. The substance does not have a special antidote, so to eliminate the consequences of an overdose, doctors carry out symptomatic therapy. Patients with malabsorption syndrome should take tablets with caution.

Contraindications

The contraceptive is contraindicated in the presence of hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel. The medication should not be taken by patients with impaired absorption of glucose or galactose. The same applies to people with lactose intolerance, as well as women suffering from galactosemia and lactose intolerance. Girls under 16 years of age are allowed to use the drug only as prescribed by a doctor. The contraceptive should not be taken by patients with severe liver failure.

Terms of sale and storage

Tablets after an unprotected act Escapel are allowed to be taken for 5 years after the product is manufactured. The contraceptive should be stored in a cool, dark place, the room temperature should be between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to keep the drug away from children.

Analogs

If you need to replace a contraceptive, you should not select an analogue yourself. Experts recommend consulting with your doctor who can choose the appropriate drug. Substitutes must have the same ATC code or international nonproprietary name. The following products are analogues of Escapel:

• Postinor (hormonal contraceptives for local use);
• Eskinor-F (postcoital drug);
• Implanon (implant for subcutaneous administration);
• Mifepristone (synthetic steroidal antigestagenic agent);
• Charozetta (oral contraceptive with a progestogen component);
• Lactinet (gestagen-containing contraceptive pills);
• Exluton (synthetic progestogen);
• Modell mam (gestagen-containing oral drug).

Gynepristone or Escapelle

Drugs such as Ginepristone and Zhenale are non-hormonal emergency contraceptives. The main active component of the above tablets is the antihormone mifepristone - a synthetic steroid. The substance blocks the action of progesterone at the level of gestagen receptors. A dose of Ginepristone (10 mg) inhibits ovulation for up to 4 days, due to which all sperm that enter the genital tract die.

Levonorgestrel and progesterone are similar in their therapeutic effects; Ginepristone has an equally strong effect in any phase of the menstrual cycle, suppressing ovulation or preventing egg adhesion. For this reason, antigestagen tablets are considered more reliable contraceptives that can be successfully used on any day of the month. In addition, the effectiveness of Ginepristone does not depend on a woman’s weight, which cannot be said about levonorgestrel-based drugs, the activity of which is significantly reduced in the presence of obesity.

Price

Emergency contraception is produced by the Gedeon Richter company, which is located in Hungary. Due to the monopolization of rights to tablets, the price depends on the cost of transportation and the operating conditions of a particular retail chain. The average price of the drug in the Moscow region ranges from 240 to 430 rubles. You can purchase a pharmacological product at any pharmacy with a doctor's prescription.

Postcoital contraceptive with pronounced gestagenic and antiestrogenic effects. With the recommended dosage regimen, it suppresses ovulation and fertilization if sexual intercourse occurs in the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, i.e. during the period of greatest likelihood of fertilization. In addition, the regression of endometrial proliferation caused by the drug prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg. Once implantation has taken place, the drug is ineffective.

It is recommended to start taking Escapelle ® as soon as possible (but no later than 72 hours) after sexual intercourse, if no protective measures have been taken. The more time passed between sexual intercourse and taking the drug, the lower its effectiveness (95% during the first 24 hours, 85% from 24 to 48 hours, and 58% from 48 to 72 hours).

Pharmacokinetics

Suction

After oral administration, levonorgestrel is quickly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. C max of the active substance in plasma is reached after 2 hours and is 18.5 ng/ml. Absolute bioavailability is 100%.

Distribution

Levonorgestrel binds to albumin and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). 1.5% of the total amount in plasma is in the form of free steroid, 65% is specifically associated with SHBG.

Metabolism

The biotransformation of levonorgestrel corresponds to the metabolism of steroids. Levonorgestrel is hydroxylated in the liver and metabolites are excreted in the form of conjugated glucuronides. Pharmacologically active metabolites of levonorgestrel are unknown.

Removal

After reaching Cmax, the plasma concentration of levonorgestrel decreases. T1/2 is 26 hours. Levonorgestrel is excreted approximately equally by the kidneys and through the intestines exclusively in the form of metabolites.

Pharmacokinetics in special clinical situations

Gastrointestinal diseases that occur with malabsorption reduce the absorption of the drug, which may affect its effectiveness.

Release form

The tablets are white or almost white, flat, round, beveled and engraved with “G00” on one side.

Excipients: potato starch, anhydrous colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, talc, corn starch, lactose monohydrate.

1 PC. - blisters (1) - cardboard packs.

Dosage

The drug is taken orally at a dose of 1.5 mg (1 tablet) as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse (the effectiveness of emergency contraception with delayed use of the drug is significantly reduced). If vomiting occurs within 3 hours after administration, Escapel ® should be taken again at a dose of 1.5 mg (1 tablet).

The drug can be used at any time of the menstrual cycle. In case of irregular menstrual cycle, pregnancy must be excluded.

After taking Escapel ® , local barrier methods of contraception (for example, a condom) should be used until the next menstruation. The use of the drug during repeated unprotected sexual intercourse during one menstrual cycle is not recommended due to an increase in the frequency of acyclic spotting/bleeding.

Overdose

Symptoms: increased severity of side effects.

Treatment: symptomatic therapy; there is no specific antidote.

Interaction

With simultaneous use of the drug Escapel ® with liver enzyme inducers, the metabolism of levonogestrel is accelerated.

The contraceptive effect of Escapelle ® is reduced when used simultaneously with the following drugs: amprenavir, lansoprazole, nevirapine, oxycarbazepine, tacrolimus, topiramate, tretinoin, barbiturates, including primidone, phenytoin and carbamazepine, drugs containing St. John's wort, as well as rifampicin, ritonavir, ampicillin , tetracycline, rifabutin, griseofulvin.

Escapel ® reduces the effectiveness of hypoglycemic and anticoagulant (coumarin derivatives, phenindione) drugs.

Levonorgestrel increases plasma concentrations of GCS.

Drugs containing levonorgestrel may increase the risk of cyclosporine toxicity due to inhibition of its metabolism.

Side effects

Allergic reactions: possible - urticaria, rash, itching, swelling of the face.

The following are transient adverse reactions that occur with different frequencies and do not require drug therapy: very often (≥1/10), often (≥1/100,<1/10).

From the digestive system: very often - nausea; often - vomiting, diarrhea.

From the side of the central nervous system: very often - fatigue; often - headache, dizziness.

From the reproductive system: very often - pain in the lower abdomen, acyclic spotting (bleeding); often - soreness of the mammary glands, delayed menstruation (no more than 5-7 days). If menstruation is delayed for a longer period, pregnancy must be excluded.

Indications

Emergency (postcoital) contraception (after unprotected sexual intercourse or unreliability of the contraceptive method used).

Contraindications

• severe liver failure;
• use in adolescents under 16 years of age;
• pregnancy;
• lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or glucose/galactose malabsorption;
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

The drug should be used with caution in patients with liver or biliary tract diseases, jaundice (including a history), Crohn's disease, and during lactation.

Features of application

Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Escapelle ® is contraindicated for use during pregnancy. Based on the available data, no adverse effects of the drug on the fetus have been identified during pregnancy during the use of an emergency method of contraception.

Levonorgestrel is excreted in breast milk. After taking the drug, breastfeeding should be stopped for 24 hours.

Use for liver dysfunction

special instructions

This drug is intended solely for emergency contraception and does not replace regular contraception. Repeated use of Escapelle ® during one menstrual cycle is not recommended.

Escapelle ® should be taken as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. The effectiveness of emergency contraception with delayed use of the drug is significantly reduced.

In most cases, Escapelle ® does not affect the nature of the menstrual cycle. However, acyclic bleeding and a delay of menstruation for several days are possible. If menstruation is delayed by more than 5-7 days and its character changes (scanty or heavy discharge), pregnancy must be excluded. The appearance of pain in the lower abdomen and fainting may indicate an ectopic (ectopic) pregnancy.

Adolescents under 16 years of age, in exceptional cases (including rape), need to consult a gynecologist to confirm pregnancy. After emergency contraception, a consultation with a gynecologist is recommended to select the most appropriate method for permanent contraception.

Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

In case of gastrointestinal dysfunction (for example, Crohn's disease), the effectiveness of the drug may be reduced.

Impact on the ability to drive vehicles and operate machinery

The effect of the drug on the ability to drive vehicles and other mechanisms has not been studied.

Active ingredient: 1.50 mg of levonorgestrel per tablet. Excipients: potato starch; corn starch; colloidal silicon dioxide; magnesium stearate; talc; lactose monohydrate (142.5 mg).

Description

Flat tablets, white or almost white, beveled and engraved with "G00" on one side.

Indications for use

Escapelle tablets contain levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone of the corpus luteum of the ovaries.

Escapelle tablets are a contraceptive intended for emergency situations. Escapelle is intended for use in the first 72 hours after sexual intercourse, during which the contraceptive was not used at all, or its use was incorrect or not reliable enough.

Escapelle tablet can be taken on any day of the menstrual cycle.

The drug prevents conception in 84% of cases if the tablet is taken in the first 72 hours after sexual intercourse. If you do not remember the exact time of sexual intercourse, or during one menstrual cycle 72 hours earlier
If another sexual intercourse not protected by a contraceptive took place, then conception has probably occurred, and taking the Escapelle tablet after the second sexual intercourse will be useless.

The effectiveness of the drug Escapelle is lower than the effectiveness of hormonal drugs for regular use. If you often need to take Escapelle, then you should use another contraceptive method specifically designed for long-term use.

Contraindications

You should not take the drug in the following cases:

If you have hypersensitivity to any of its components;

In case of severe liver disease;

During pregnancy.

In the following cases, Escapelle can be taken with extreme caution:

If you become pregnant while taking the drug, be sure to consult your doctor. Despite the lack of evidence about the harmful effects of the drug on the fetus, a medical examination is necessary to exclude ectopic pregnancy. A medical examination is especially important if you have severe abdominal pain, or if you have had an ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease or surgery in the past. In case of severe liver disease, taking the drug may be contraindicated. In case of severe absorption disorders, for example in Crohn's disease, the reliability of the drug decreases. Repeated use of the drug during the same menstrual cycle is not recommended, because may lead to menstrual irregularities. After taking the drug, contact your doctor so that he can select another contraceptive drug for you to use in the future.

Pregnancy and lactation

Escapelle tablets should not be taken during pregnancy. The drug does not terminate pregnancy. According to numerous clinical studies, the drug does not have a harmful effect on the fetus during the development of pregnancy while using the Escapelle tablet.

Lactation

The active ingredient of the drug passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, take the tablet immediately after breastfeeding.

Directions for use and doses

The tablet should be taken within the first 72 hours after sexual intercourse. If vomiting occurs within the first 3 hours after taking the tablet, you must take a second tablet.

After using the emergency contraceptive pill, you should use other methods of contraception until your next period, for example, use a condom. Taking a hormonal means of regular contraception is not contraindicated after taking the Escapelle tablet.

The use of Escapelle in children is subject to careful consideration.

Side effect

Like other medicines, Escapelle tablets may have unwanted effects. In more than 10% of cases, menstruation disorders, nausea, fatigue, pain in the lower abdomen, and headache are possible. With a frequency of 1-10%, dizziness, tension in the mammary glands, diarrhea, and vomiting occur.

Interaction with other drugs

Some medications (antiepileptics, antifungals, antibiotics) can accelerate the breakdown of the active substance of Escapel when used simultaneously with it and reduce its effectiveness. St. John's wort preparations can also have a similar effect. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you take, whether prescription or over-the-counter.

Pregnancy in the life of every woman should be a real miracle, a gift from higher powers, and not stress. This is facilitated by the abundance of contraceptives. Unfortunately, this does not reduce the number of abortions at all. Today we will talk about which comes to the rescue when it is especially necessary. One of these drugs is Escapelle. Gynecologist reviews about it are usually good, but they are often silent about the possibility of individual side effects. Let's talk about this in more detail today.

What does it consist of?

The drug is white or almost white tablets, flat, engraved G00. Each tablet contains 1.5 milligrams of levonorgestrel (a synthetic progestogen). In addition, they contain starch, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, talc, lactose monohydrate.

The use of the product requires some caution, since it is a rather fragile mechanism that is easy to break. Consultation with a specialist is necessary before each use of the drug "Escapelle". Reviews from a gynecologist confirm that it is usually well tolerated, but there are exceptions.

Mechanism of action

This is what is used in emergencies. By its action, it inhibits the ovulation process, thereby providing protection against pregnancy. Additionally, the drug prevents the growth of the uterine mucosa and makes cervical mucus more viscous. This is necessary to impede the progress of sperm.

Let us remind you that the medication should be used only as a “firefighter” method, when it is too late to think about other methods of contraception. Condoms, hormonal agents, suppositories, creams and ointments are a reliable and safe alternative to the drug Escapelle. The gynecologist's reviews say the same thing. This remedy is certainly better than abortion, but it is still recommended to prevent its use in advance.

It is best to use Escapelle when you have a regular menstrual cycle, this makes it easier to calculate “dangerous” days. If intercourse occurred on the day of ovulation, and the drug was taken two days after it, then there is a high probability that fertilization of the egg has already occurred, which means that nothing will prevent its implantation. According to the instructions, the permissible interval between intimacy and taking emergency contraception is 72 hours, but the sooner this happens, the higher the level of protection will be. After 96 hours there is no use in taking it, you are either pregnant or not.

In addition, there is a limitation on the regularity of taking the drug "Escapelle". The instructions state that the frequency of administration should not exceed 1 time per menstrual cycle. But consumption even with such frequency can lead to hormonal changes. Ideally, the frequency of administration should not exceed once a year.

Another point is the threat of infection during Will Escapelle help in this case? Reviews from the gynecologist confirm the absence of such protection, that is, you are susceptible to all diseases and infections of the genital tract. If you are not sure about your partner, it is better to use barrier methods, such as a condom.

Indications for use

When should I take Escapelle? The instructions say the following: the remedy is prescribed if unprotected sexual intercourse has already occurred, and pregnancy is undesirable for this period.

This is not the only indication. There are times when the main means of protection are not reliable enough. For example, if you are using but undergoing antibiotic treatment or taking medications containing St. John's wort extract. Then you can resort to emergency contraception once (if you forgot about the decrease in the effectiveness of COCs, and intimacy has already occurred), and then use condoms until the end of the course of treatment. Another indication may be a condom breaking.

Admission rules

It would be good to consult with your doctor before taking Escapelle. The instructions for use recommend taking the required dose of the drug within 2 days after the act of intimacy. It will be 1.5 mg, or 1 tablet. On an individual basis, the doctor may recommend dividing the dose into 2 doses: 0.5 tablets at first and the second half after 12 hours. Indications for this may include poor health, young age, or low body weight.

If an individual reaction of the body occurs in the form of vomiting (especially if less than three hours have passed after taking the drug), then you should take the same dose again as the first time. At the same time, it is recommended to take the medication “Cerucal” in the amount of one tablet to prevent the occurrence and allow the drug to work.

What else do you need to know before taking Escapelle? The instructions for use indicate the possibility of using it on any day of the cycle. This is true, but only if the previous menstruation was normal and on time. In other words, you must be sure that you are not pregnant today. There is no data on the pathogenic or toxic effects of the drug on the fetus, but any hormonal shift is dangerous, especially if you decide to continue the pregnancy.

Contraindications

In fact, after taking Escapel, a number of unpleasant consequences may occur, so you need to know who this drug is not suitable for. It is strictly contraindicated for women who have hypersensitivity to its components. Unfortunately, this can only be established using laboratory methods, for which there is usually no time, and experimentally. If there is a suspicion of hypersensitivity, you can divide the dose into 2 times, 0.5 doses each with an interval of 12 hours.

The second contraindication is diseases of the liver and biliary tract. This is a very important point to remember before taking Escapelle. Side effects can be quite severe, so even jaundice experienced in childhood is a reason to look for an alternative.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are another difficult period when you should refrain from taking various medications. The expectant mother may not yet know that she is expecting a child and continue to use protection. This is why it is so important to monitor your cycle and make sure you are not pregnant (for example, take a test) before taking the drug. During breastfeeding, many protective measures are not suitable, as they are excreted along with milk. But the young mother has not yet recovered from childbirth and is not ready for a new pregnancy, so she needs to take precautions. Non-hormonal suppositories, ointments and creams, for example, the Pharmatex medication, as well as condoms, are best suited. If an “accident” occurs, then taking the drug “Escapelle” is allowed. Side effects are neutralized by stopping breastfeeding for 36 hours. Be sure to express your milk so that it does not stagnate.

The drug is not recommended during puberty, that is, its use by teenage girls. Hormonal levels are already unstable, and taking such drugs can lead to serious weight fluctuations and other unpleasant consequences.

Harm to the body

The pregnancy pill Escapelle is not as safe as it might seem at first glance. This is a serious drug, and the less often you resort to using it, the better for your health. A single dose usually does not cause serious problems, but the more often this method of contraception is used, the more the risk of side effects increases and the protection becomes weaker.

Allergic reactions may occur. They can manifest themselves in the form of redness of the skin, rash, itching, and swelling of the face. These are fairly harmless symptoms that go away on their own and do not require special intervention. But if they persist for a week or more, consult a doctor. Complaints of nausea, vomiting or acute diarrhea often occur. This is how the digestive system reacts to the invasion of a synthetic drug. Pay special attention to this, as acute stomach upset or vomiting can significantly reduce the absorption of the drug, which may result in pregnancy.

From the central nervous system, one can often observe a feeling of fatigue, headache, and dizziness. Usually these symptoms do not last more than a few days, although in exceptional cases women complain of feeling unwell for much longer.

Most often, various complaints can be diagnosed regarding problems with the genital organs. Within 24 hours, pain in the lower abdomen may begin. If they are very strong, then you should immediately consult a doctor. Spotting may begin, even if your period is still far away. The mammary glands become engorged, as during pregnancy, and become very sensitive. It should be noted that early menstruation is not the only option. The opposite situation is no less common, when the cycle moves forward; in such cases, 5-7 days are considered the norm. If the delay continues for a longer time, pregnancy must be excluded.

You need to be prepared for this when taking Escapelle. Side effects may vary in severity; in the most severe cases, seek advice or call an ambulance.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

The drug is contraindicated for use during pregnancy. Although if we exclude the first trimester, it is unlikely that a woman can doubt her interesting situation and continue to use emergency contraception. However, the studies conducted do not confirm the negative effect of the drug on the fetus. Therefore, if, despite precautions, the pregnancy continues, then you can safely carry your baby and not worry about his health.

As already mentioned, the drug is excreted in breast milk, so after taking it you should temporarily stop breastfeeding. After two days, you can return to your usual routine.

The drug and its analogues

Women often ask: “Is it better to use Escapelle or Postinor?” Both drugs contain the same dose of the same hormone, only in the case of the drug “Postinor” you are offered a package with two tablets, 0.75 mg each, they must be taken with an interval of 12 hours. "Escapel" is represented by one tablet, which contains 1.5 mg of active ingredient. It can be taken at once or divided into 2 doses. The most important thing is not which drug to choose, but how quickly to take it. In the case of emergency contraception, time is of the essence.

Discharge after “Escapel” can be of a different nature. In some cases, the drug leads to detachment of the uterine mucosa, which prevents egg implantation and pregnancy. As a result, in the coming days you will experience discharge similar to normal menstruation, although it may still be a long way off. The product "Postinor" is no exception; it has the same mechanism of action. However, you may not notice any changes at all, your periods will pass at their usual time or will shift by a few days. The body and its hormonal background are individual for each person, so it is impossible to accurately predict the reaction.

special instructions

Contraceptive pills "Escapelle" are intended exclusively for emergency cases and do not replace regular contraception. Repeated use during one menstrual cycle is not recommended, as it may result in hormonal imbalances. Most often, the drug does not affect the nature of the menstrual cycle, but it may shift for several days in one direction or another. Severe pain, too little or, on the contrary, too much discharge indicate the need to urgently seek help from a doctor. A delay after “Escapel” for 5-7 days is not considered a pathology, but is only a slight cycle failure.

Adolescents under 16 years of age require an in-person consultation with a gynecologist before prescribing the drug. Even in the case of rape, it is advisable to first undergo a medical examination. It is usually recommended to wait until the pregnancy is confirmed, but then the young mother will have to go through another stress, making a choice between abortion and early birth. After emergency contraception, you need to visit your gynecologist again so that he can select the most suitable method for regular protection.

It must be said that pregnancy after “Escapel” is still possible. It depends on many factors, and one of the most important is time. The sooner the pill is taken, the more likely it is to work. It is believed that a correctly taken medicine gives a guarantee of 98.9 percent, which is not so little. But the individual characteristics of the body, the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, and hormonal levels still play a role. In addition, it matters what day of the cycle the sexual intercourse took place. Under particularly favorable conditions (the release of a mature egg into the fallopian tube), fertilization can occur quite quickly. And while you are thinking about which drug to take, the egg is successfully implanted into the wall of the uterus. The drug will neither harm nor interfere with further development. Therefore, if you decide to continue the pregnancy, you will give birth to an absolutely healthy child.

Overdose

If, due to inexperience, carelessness, or out of a desire to provide better protection against pregnancy, you take a larger dose of the drug than recommended in the instructions, this may cause increased side effects. There is no specific antidote in this case; if your health causes concern, then it is better to seek help from a doctor.

It should be noted that increasing the dose does not affect the effectiveness of the drug. You can repeat taking Escapelle only if you have vomited or had severe diarrhea within 3 hours after taking the first tablet. Because in this case there is a high probability that the drug is not absorbed. In all other cases, the dosage is calculated in such a way that it is more than enough to prevent pregnancy.

Drug interactions

There are drugs that reduce the effectiveness of the drug "Escapelle". Their use at once is permissible only as a last resort, and it is advisable to inform the attending physician. If you are undergoing treatment and at this moment emergency contraception is required, then it makes sense to interrupt the medication for 2 days. These are drugs such as Amprenavir, Tretinoin, Lansoprazole, Topiramate, Nevirapine, Oxcarbazepine. Be careful if you use barbiturates (primidone, phenytoin), products containing St. John's wort extract. This also includes antiviral drugs: Rifampicin, Ritonavir, as well as antibiotics: Ampicillin, Tetracycline.

Let's sum it up

The “Escapelle” remedy is a modern drug that helps plan a family even in the most critical situations, when unprotected sexual intercourse has already occurred. Such situations are very common among young people. And although this remedy is not recommended for use by adolescents, its use is better than the known consequences.

If we consider the drug "Escapelle" as an alternative to medical and medicinal abortion, then this is a much lesser evil. It prevents new life from being born, in general, like all other contraceptives, but it does not kill the small creature. Therefore, if your sex life is not regular, there is the possibility of casual relationships and you know that at the climax you will not be able to interrupt to go to the pharmacy, it is better to have an Escapelle tablet with you just in case. But do not forget that you cannot use the drug often. Therefore, next time, stock up on condoms, and as additional protection in case of rupture, you can use vaginal suppositories.