Plan B is the brand name of a medication used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Levonorgestrel, the active ingredient in Plan B, is a synthetic form of the female hormone that prevents the release of an egg from an ovary, according to Drugs.com. The Plan B pill also causes changes in the cervical mucus and lining of the uterus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg or for a fertilized egg to implant into the uterine lining. As with any medication, Plan B has the risk of side effects, but eMedTV.com reports that most women tolerate the medication well.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects occurring with the use of Plan B are generally considered to be mild unless they are prolonged or overly bothersome, as indicated by eMedTV.com. Such effects include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, heavier menstrual period, lighter menstrual period, dizziness, tender breasts, vomiting or diarrhea. The most common of these effects is nausea, which eMedTV.com states occurred in 23.1 percent of women in clinical trials. Some larger-dose versions of levonorgestrel have also caused a delayed period and a higher incidence rate of the same side effects.
Serious Side Effects
There is a risk of allergic reaction with the use of Plan B. EMedTV.com reports that the likelihood of this life-threatening reaction is low. Symptoms to look for include rash, hives, itching, unusual swelling, wheezing, trouble breathing or difficulty swallowing. Emergency medical treatment is required when any of these effects are present.
A woman who vomits within an hour of taking Plan B should seek assistance from her medical care provider. EMedTV.com cautions women that this can indicate the drug has not made it into the blood stream and the chance of pregnancy still exists.
Complications
When Plan B is taken, it does not abort a fertilized egg or an existing embryo. Instead, it prevents the egg from ever being fertilized. In some cases, the hormones in the medication can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Signs of this include severe abdominal pain and possibly spotting. A missed period or spotting in place of a period can also indicate a tubal pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is considered to be a medical emergency, according to Drugs.com.
