Levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel

Summary

Levonorgestrel is a progestin found in oral and IUD contraceptives and at higher doses in emergency contraceptives.

Background

Levonorgestrel (LNG) is a synthetic progestogen similar to Progesterone used in contraception and hormone therapy.^7,17 Also known as Plan B, it is used as a single agent in emergency contraception, and as a hormonal contraceptive released from an intrauterine device, commonly referred to as an IUD. Some of these devices are known as Jaydess, Kyleena, and Mirena. A subdermal implant of levonorgestrel that slowly releases the hormone over a long-term period is also available.²⁸ In addition to the above uses, levonorgestrel is used as a component of long-term combination contraceptives.^8,18,20

Weight Average: 312.4458
Monoisotopic: 312.20893014

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₂₈O₂