What is HuxD3?

HuxD3 contains cholecalciferol, which is a high strength vitamin D food supplement. HuxD3 is formulated in a soft capsule, which is gelatine-free therefore compatible with Halal and Kosher dietary requirements. HuxD3 is also free from gluten, alcohol, preservatives, yeast, nut, peanut, and soy.

How to take HuxD3

One capsule to be taken every two weeks, or as directed by your healthcare professional. These easy to swallow capsules can either be chewed or opened. HuxD3 should be taken with the most important meal of the day to ensure maximum absorption.

Do not exceed the recommended dosage. HuxD3 is not to be used by children under the age of 12, breastfeeding or pregnant women, unless on the advice of a healthcare professional HuxD3 should be used as a replacement for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Contains corn oil, sunflower seed oil, glycerol, carrageenan, and vitamin D3.

What does HuxD3 contain?

Halal and Kosher certified Vitamin D3 BP 500mcg (10,000% RDA), corn oil, sunflower seed oil, vegetarian capsule shell (modified corn starch, glycerol BP (vegetarian source), carrageenan).

What is Fluconazole Fungal Infection Capsule?

This medicine contains Fluconazole, which belongs to a group of medicines called antifungals. These act to treat infections caused by fungi.

The medicine can be used to treat thrush (vaginal candidiasis). It may also be used by the woman’s sexual partner to treat associated penile thrush (candidal balanitis).

Thrush is a common infection caused by a yeast (or fungus), which may live harmlessly in the vagina without you even noticing it.

However, in certain circumstances, it may develop into an infection in the vagina and symptoms may spread to the surrounding area. The symptoms may include one or more of the following:

• Itching of the vagina and surrounding area (the vulva)
• Redness and swelling of the tissues of the vagina and vulva
• Soreness of the vagina and vulva
• White non-smelling discharge from the vagina

Thrush may be aggravated by sexual intercourse, but it is not a sexually transmitted disease. However, sometimes thrush can be passed to your partner through sexual intercourse.

If your partner has penile thrush, he may have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Soreness and redness of the penis
• Tightness of the foreskin
• A white non-smelling penile discharge

What is the recommended dosage for Fluconazole?

• Check the foil is not broken before use. If it is, do not take the capsule.
• Adults aged 16 to 60 years: Take one capsule once only.
• Swallow the capsule whole with water.
• Do not give to children under 16 years, or take if you are an adult of 61 years or older unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not take more than the amount recommended above.
• If symptoms do not go away within seven days, talk to your doctor.
• If your symptoms worsen at any time, talk to your doctor.
• If symptoms clear up but then return after seven days, you can take another capsule, unless you had an allergic reaction the first time.

What is in this medicine

The capsule contains Fluconazole 150 mg which is the active ingredient.

What is Fluconazole Fungal Infection Capsule?

This medicine contains Fluconazole, which belongs to a group of medicines called antifungals. These act to treat infections caused by fungi.

The medicine can be used to treat thrush (vaginal candidiasis). The woman’s sexual partner may also use it to treat associated penile thrush (candidal balanitis).

Thrush is a common infection caused by a yeast (or fungus), which may live harmlessly in the vagina without you even noticing it.

However, in certain circumstances, it may develop into an infection in the vagina, and symptoms may spread to the surrounding area. The symptoms may include one or more of the following:

• Itching of the vagina and surrounding area (the vulva)
• Redness and swelling of the tissues of the vagina and vulva
• Soreness of the vagina and vulva
• White non-smelling discharge from the vagina

Thrush may be aggravated by sexual intercourse, but it is not a sexually transmitted disease. However, sometimes thrush can be passed to your partner through sexual intercourse.

If your partner has penile thrush, he may have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Soreness and redness of the penis
• Tightness of the foreskin
• A white non-smelling penile discharge

What is the recommended dosage for Fluconazole?

• Check the foil is not broken before use. If it is, do not take the capsule.
• Adults aged 16 to 60 years: Take one capsule once only.
• Swallow the capsule whole with water.
• Do not give to children under 16 years, or take if you are an adult of 61 years or older unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not take more than the amount recommended above.
• Talk to your doctor if symptoms do not go away within seven days.
• If your symptoms worsen at any time, talk to your doctor.
• If symptoms clear up but then return after seven days, you can take another capsule, unless you had an allergic reaction the first time.

What is in this medicine

The capsule contains Fluconazole 150 mg which is the active ingredient.

What is STUD 100 Spray?

STUD 100 contains the active substance lidocaine. Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic which is used to reduce the sensitivity to touch of the penis just before intercourse (sex). The reduction in sensitivity helps to delay ejaculation (climax) in cases of over-rapid or premature ejaculation (coming to a climax too quickly).

How to use STUD 100 Spray

The quantity used and timing will vary with individual requirements, but the usual recommended dosage is 3 to 8 sprays to the head and the shaft of the penis, 5 to 15 minutes before intercourse. You should always use the minimum effective quantity.

• This spray is for external use only. Do not spray near the eyes or nostrils.
• Do not use on broken or inflamed skin.
• Wash off the spray after intercourse.
• Do not use the spray for more than 3 months without consulting your doctor.
• Do not exceed a maximum of 24 sprays in 24 hours.

What does STUD 100 Spray contain?

The active substance is Lidocaine Base 9.6% w/w. 

What is Nurofen Plus?

The active ingredients (which make Nurofen Plus work) are Ibuprofen and Codeine phosphate.

• Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs provide relief by changing the body’s response to pain, swelling, and high temperature.
• Codeine belongs to a group of medicines called opioid analgesics which act to relieve pain. It can be used on its own or in combination with other pain killers such as paracetamol.

Nurofen Plus (which contains codeine) can be used in children over 12 years of age for the short-term relief of acute, moderate pain that is not relieved by other painkillers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin alone, such as :

• migraine, headaches, neuralgia
• period, dental, back, rheumatic and muscular pains

How to take Nurofen Plus

Adults, the elderly and children aged 12 years and older: Swallow 1 or 2 tablets with water, up to three times a day as required.

• Leave at least four hours between doses.
• Do not take more than 6 tablets in any 24 hour period.
• This product is for short term use only. You should take the lowest dose for the shortest time necessary to relieve your symptoms.

What does Nurofen Plus contain?

Each tablet contains the active ingredients Ibuprofen 200mg and Codeine phosphate 12.8mg.

What is Amorolfine 5% Nail Lacquer?

Amorolfine 5% w/v is used to treat:

• Fungal infections of the nails without the involvement of the nail root (nail matrix)
• Fungal infections affecting up to 2 nails and affecting the upper half or sides of the nail (as shown in the first picture below). If the infection appears to be more like pictures 2 or 3; you should consult your doctor.
• The active substance in Amorolfine 5% w/v is amorolfine (as the hydrochloride) which belongs to a group of medicines known as antifungals.
• Amorolfine 5% w/v kills a wide variety of fungi that can cause nail infections. Fungal nail infection is likely to result in discoloured (white, yellow, or brown), thick or brittle nails, although their appearance can vary considerably.

How to use Amorolfine 5% Nail Lacquer

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

Unless otherwise prescribed by the doctor, Amorolfine 5% w/v is used as follows:

• Treat your infected nails as described below. NAILS SHOULD BE TREATED ONCE A WEEK.
• Once weekly application should continue for six months for fingernails and 9 to 12 months for toenails.
• Nails grow slowly so it may take 2 or 3 months before you start to see an improvement.
• It is vital to carry on using the nail lacquer until the infection has cleared and healthy nails have grown back.
• The following steps should be followed carefully for each affected nail:

Step 1: File the nail

Using a new file, gently file down the infected areas of nail, including the nail surface. Protect any healthy nails while you are doing this so that you don't spread the infection.

CAUTION: Do not use the same nail file used for infected nails and healthy nails, as this could spread the infection as well.

To prevent the spread of infection, take care that no one else uses the files from your kit.

Step 2: Clean the nail

Use one of the swabs provided (or nail varnish remover) to clean the nail surface. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each affected nail.

Step 3: Apply the lacquer

Dip one of the re-usable applicators into the bottle of nail lacquer. The lacquer must not be wiped off the edge of the bottle before it is applied. Apply the lacquer evenly over the entire surface of the nail. Repeat this step for each affected nail.

Let the treated nail(s) dry for approximately 10 minutes.

Step 4: Clean the applicator

The applicators provided are re-usable. However, it is essential to clean them thoroughly after completing each treatment procedure, using the same swab you used for nail cleansing. Avoid touching newly treated nails with the swab. Close the nail lacquer bottle tightly. Dispose of the swab carefully as it is inflammable.

What does Amorolfine 5% w/v contain?

Amorolfine 5% w/v contains 50 mg/ml of the active substance amorolfine (equivalent to 55.74 mg/ml amorolfine hydrochloride).

What is Lamisil AT 1% Cream?

Lamisil AT 1% Cream contains the active ingredient terbinafine hydrochloride which is an antifungal used to treat fungal skin infection, such as:

• Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) – Athlete’s foot appears only on the feet (usually both, but not always), usually in between the toes. It can also appear on the instep, soles, or other areas of the feet. The most common type of athlete’s foot causes cracking or scaling of the skin, but you may also have mild swelling, blisters, or weeping ulcers. Lamisil AT 1% Cream is recommended for athlete’s foot when it occurs between the toes. If you have a fungal nail infection (fungus inside and under the nail) with discolouration of the nails and changes in nail texture (thick or flaky), you should consult your doctor because Lamisil AT 1% Cream is not appropriate for this type of infection.
• Dhobie itch/jock itch (tinea cruris) – Dhobie itch appears in the groin and inner thigh area, usually on both sides but often with one side more than the other, where it can spread further between the legs to the buttocks, or up towards the stomach. Dhobie itch looks like a clearly bordered rash, which may have blisters.
  

How to use Lamisil AT 1% Cream

Adults: For Athlete’s Foot and dhobie itch, apply the cream once a day, for one week.

• Cleanse and dry the affected areas thoroughly and wash your hands. Treatment can be helped by keeping the affected areas clean by regular washing and careful drying with your own clean towels and clothes, and not rubbing or scratching the skin.
• Unscrew the cap then gently squeeze out a small amount of the cream onto your finger.
• Apply just enough cream to form a thin layer on the affected skin and surrounding areas.
• Rub in gently. When used between the toes, buttocks or on the groin, the treated area may be covered with a light, fresh gauze strip, especially at night.
• Replace the cap on the tube and wash your hands

Even though you will not be using Lamisil AT 1% Cream during the second week, full skin healing after the infection has cleared will continue for up to 4 weeks. If you have not noticed any signs of improvement within 2 weeks of first starting treatment, please seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

What does Lamisil AT 1% Cream contain

The active ingredient is terbinafine hydrochloride 1% w/w.

What are Imodium Instant Tablets?

Imodium Instant Melts are used to treat two types of diarrhoea.

The two types have different age limits. 

Short-term diarrhoea:

• For adults and children aged 12 and over.
• To treat attacks that last up to 48 hours.
• If your attack lasts longer than 48 hours, talk to your doctor.

IBS diarrhoea:

• For adults and young people aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
• To treat attacks that last up to 48 hours.
• You can use this medicine for up to 2 weeks for repeated attacks, but if an attack lasts continuously for longer than 48 hours, talk to your doctor.

The tablets contain loperamide hydrochloride, a substance that helps reduce diarrhoea by slowing down an overactive bowel. This allows water and salts that are usually lost in diarrhoea to be absorbed by the body.

How to take Imodium Instant Tablets

• Peel back the lid and tip the tablet out. Do not push the tablets through the lid.
• Place the correct number of tablets on the tongue. The tablets dissolve quickly in your mouth, so you don’t need water to swallow them. Do not chew. For oral use only.
• Do not use more than the dose shown in the tables.
• The tablets are not for long-term treatment.
  

Short-term diarrhoea:

Adults and children aged 12 and over

• Take two tablets to start treatment.
• Take one tablet after each loose bowel movement.

Do not take for attacks lasting longer than 48 hours.

Do not take more than six tablets in a 24-hour period.

Replace lost fluid by drinking more liquid than usual.

IBS diarrhoea

Adults aged 18 and over

• Take two tablets to start treatment.
• Take one tablet after each loose bowel movement (or as advised by your doctor).

You can use this medicine for up to 2 weeks for repeated attacks, but do not take for any one attack lasting longer than 48 hours.

Do not take more than six tablets in a 24-hour period.

Replace lost fluid by drinking more liquid than usual.

What do Imodium Instant Tablets contain

The active ingredient in Imodium Instants is: Loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg per tablet.

What is Viagra Connect?

VIAGRA Connect is a treatment for adult men (aged 18 years and older) with erectile dysfunction (also known as impotence). This is when a man cannot get or keep an erection hard enough for satisfactory sexual activity.

Erections depend on many things, including proper blood flow to the penis. If blood cannot flow adequately to the penis, it can cause erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is a common problem and can affect men differently. Some men cannot get an erection, other men can get an erection but it may not be hard enough for sex, or they may lose their erection before or during sex.

VIAGRA Connect contains the active ingredient sildenafil. It belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by relaxing the blood vessels in your penis, allowing blood to flow into your penis when you get sexually excited and causing an erection. VIAGRA Connect will only help you to get an erection if you are sexually excited (stimulated).

How to take Viagra Connect Tablets

• Take one tablet, as needed, approximately 1 hour before sexual activity;
• Swallow the tablet whole with water;
• Do not take more than one tablet a day

You will not get an erection just by taking VIAGRA Connect. This medicine will only help you get an erection if you are sexually aroused. You and your partner should engage in foreplay just as you would if you were not taking a medicine for erectile dysfunction.

The amount of time this medicine takes to work varies from person to person, but it normally takes between 30 to 60 minutes to work. You may take it up to 4 hours before sexual activity.

Remember to relax and be patient. There is no rush. If you are not successful the first time, try to have sex again, but remember you can only take 1 tablet a day. For most men, VIAGRA Connect will work the first or second time they try it. If it has been some time since you were able to get or keep an erection, it may take a couple of attempts before you are able to achieve an erection. If you feel the effect of VIAGRA Connect is too strong or too weak, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

What do Viagra Connect Tablets contain

The active substance is sildenafil. Each tablet contains 50 mg of sildenafil (as citrate).

The other ingredients are:

• Tablet core: microcrystalline cellulose, calcium hydrogen phosphate (anhydrous), croscarmellose sodium and magnesium stearate
• Film coat: hypromellose, titanium dioxide (E171), lactose, triacetin and indigo carmine aluminium lake (E132)

What are Hypromellose Eye Drops 0.3%

Hypromellose is an artificial tear used to relieve dry eye conditions (e.g. conditions associated with the use of VDUs and TVs, infrequent blinking, certain medical treatments, atmospheric pollution and drying atmospheres e.g. air-conditioning, central heating, wind and sun). It is also used to moisten hard contact lenses and lubricate artificial eyes.

How to use Hypromellose Eye Drops 0.3%

Always use Hypromellose Eye Drops exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

The recommended dose is one or two drops three times daily as needed or directed by your doctor. If you are using it in combination with another eye drop medicine, wait 5-15 minutes before applying the second eye drops.

Instructions for use

• Before opening a new bottle of Hypromellose Eye Drops, please check that the safety strip on the bottom of the outer cap is unbroken.
• Twist the outer cap to break the seal.
• Wash your hands well before use.
• Remove the outer cap. If you are putting in the drops yourself, you should use a mirror.
• Tilt your head back and look up at the ceiling.
• Pull the lower lid of the eye out to form a small pocket between your eyelid and your eye.
• Hold the bottle between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the bottle upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye with the nozzle.
• Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops, as directed by your doctor.
• Blink your eye a few times.
• If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop.
• Repeat steps 5-10 for the other eye if you have been told to use Hypromellose Eye Drops in both eyes.
• Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with anything, including the eye or your fingers.
• Wash your hands

If you are unsure about how to use Hypromellose Eye Drops talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Eye solutions, if handled wrongly, can become contaminated by common bacteria and cause eye infections. If you do develop any other eye condition whilst using this product, see your doctor immediately.

How much to use

The usual dose is 1 or 2 drops placed in each eye three times daily, however, this may vary depending on the amount of lubrication needed.

If there is no improvement see your doctor or pharmacist.

Hypromellose Eye Drops are for external use only.

If you use more Hypromellose Eye Drops then you should

It can be washed out of your eye with warm water. It will not cause you any harm. If you are worried then talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

If you forget to take Hypromellose Eye Drops

Apply the drops as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you stop using Hypromellose Eye Drops

You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you want to stop taking Hypromellose.

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What do Hypromellose Eye Drops 0.3% contain?

The active substance is hypromellose 0.3%w/v

The other ingredients are purified water, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, borax, boric acid, benzalkonium chloride solution. It may also contain sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid.

What is Calpol SixPlus FastMelts Strawberry?

The paracetamol in Calpol SixPlus FastMelts Strawberry is used to relieve pain and/or bring down fever (high temperature) in many conditions including cold and flu, headache, toothache, earache, post-immunisation fever, sore throat and other aches and pains.

How to use Calpol SixPlus FastMelts Strawberry

• For oral use only.
• To remove tablet use a fingernail to break the foil along the dotted line before pressing the tablet out.
• Tablets can be sucked gently until they melt on the tongue. There is no need to take water as they melt into a pleasant tasting paste which is easily swallowed.
• Alternatively, the tablets can be dissolved in a teaspoon of water or milk if preferred.
• Do not give more medicine than the label tells you to. If your child does not get better, talk to your doctor.

Children from 6 years to adults

6-9 years - 1 tablet

9-12 years - 2 tablets

12-16 years - 2-3 tablets

Adults and children over 16 years - 2-4 tablets

• Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24 hours.
• Leave at least 4 hours between doses.
• Do not give this medicine to your child for more than 3 days without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

What does Calpol SixPlus FastMelts Strawberry contain?

The active ingredient is: paracetamol 250 mg per tablet.

Other ingredients are: Mannitol (E421), crospovidone, aspartame (E951), magnesium stearate, basic butylated methacrylate copolymer, polyacrylate dispersion 30% and colloidal anhydrous silica. The flavouring is strawberry.

What is Perspirex Strong Antiperspirant Roll On

Perspirex Strong is specifically developed for men and women with severe perspiration problems and offers five days of protection from underarm sweat and odour. It has been formulated with a highly effective complex of active ingredients so that you will not be disturbed even in the most stressful situations. It also reliably keeps armpit odour under control.

Perspirex Strong is free from perfume.

Thanks to the clinically tested and extra potent anti-sweat deodorant active ingredient formula, the Perspirex antiperspirant deodorant against heavy sweating for men and women, applied once in the evening for up to 5 days, offers long-lasting and reliable protection against the build-up of sweat and odour, so that you can feel completely comfortable in your skin again.

One application ensures maximum dryness for up to 5 days.

How to use Perspirex Strong Antiperspirant Roll On

• Please read the instruction booklet that accompanies Perspirex before applying the antiperspirant. 
• The skin must be unbroken and completely dry. skin must be dehydrated before applying Perspirex. Never apply Perspirex to damaged or irritated skin.
• Apply Perspirex at night before going to bed. This is when the sweat glands are most inactive. Apply a small amount (approximately two upwards and downward strokes) as a thin film evenly distributed on the underarm area. Allow drying after application thoroughly. Applying too much may cause skin irritation.
• Wash off in the morning with soap and water. There is no need to re-apply, and the protection will last even after showering. If you wish to, you can also apply a regular scented deodorant or perfume, which will not affect the performance of Perspirex. To maintain sweat and odour protection, use Perspirex 2-3 nights per week or as often as needed.

What does Perspirex Strong Antiperspirant Roll On contain

Alcohol Denat., Aluminum Chloride, PEG-12 Dimethicone.

What are Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

Hana is a daily contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy for women of childbearing age. It is an oral hormonal contraceptive (often called “the pill”). Hana works primarily by preventing a woman’s egg cell from ripening (prevents ovulation); it also has effects on cervical mucus which makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the womb.

Hana contains a small amount of one type of female sex hormone: a progestogen called desogestrel. Unlike the combined pill, Hana does not contain any oestrogen hormone, in addition to the progestogen. For this reason, Hana is called a progestogen-only pill (POP).

In contrast to the combined pill, Hana can be used:

• by women who cannot take oestrogens, or do not want to
• by women who are breastfeeding.

If you think you are post-menopausal, talk to your doctor. You may not need to take contraceptives.

Hormonal contraceptives, including Hana, do not protect you against HIV infection (AIDS) or any other sexually transmitted disease. Only condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections.

This product does not work as an emergency contraceptive. If it’s taken every day it will protect against pregnancy in the future.

How to take Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

When and how to take the tablets

Hana will not prevent pregnancy unless taken exactly as directed. 

Take one tablet at the same time every day, without a break between packs. 

Swallow the tablet whole.

Choose a convenient time of day. It is best to link this to something you already do at the same time every day. For example, when you wake up, or when you brush your teeth.

Never skip your daily tablet. Take it every day, even when you bleed or have spotting.

The Hana pack contains 28/ tablets. The days of the week are printed on the pack, and arrows show the order to take the tablets. Every time you start a new pack of Hana, take a tablet labelled with the correct day. For example, if you start on a Wednesday, you must take a tablet marked with Wed. Don’t start with just any tablet. 

Continue to take one tablet a day until the pack is empty, following the direction shown by the arrows.

When a pack is empty, you must start with a new pack of Hana on the next day, without a break, and without waiting for a bleed.

Starting your first pack of Hana 

Not currently using hormonal contraception: 

If you are not using hormonal contraception now or in the past month (for example, pill, vaginal ring, skin patch, injection, implant, hormone-containing coil (IUS)), wait for your period to begin.

• it is preferable to take your first tablet on day 1 of your period. When doing so, you do not need to use extra contraception
• if you take your first tablet on days 2–5 of your period, use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking the tablets.

Changing from a combined pill:

• if you have had your usual break from a combined pill, take the first Hana tablet on the day after your break, or when you have taken all the inactive tablets of your other contraceptive. If you follow these instructions, make sure you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana
• if you haven’t had your usual break from a combined pill, start taking Hana on the day after you take the last tablet from your present pill pack. Even if your other pill pack contains inactive tablets, you can start Hana on the day after taking the last active tablet. If you are not sure which this is, ask your pharmacist. If you follow these instructions, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from a vaginal ring or skin patch:

• if there has been a break between removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch (ie. you are not starting Hana on the day of removal of the ring or patch), make sure you use extra contraception (for example condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana.
• if you start taking Hana on the day of removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from another progestogen-only pill:

Switch on any day from another progestogen-only pill. You must start the day after you stop your other pill. You do not need extra contraception.

Changing from an injection, implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS):

When changing from an injection, start using Hana on the same day the injection is due. You do not need extra contraception.

When changing from an implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS), start Hana the same day the IUS or implant is removed. Your doctor will advise you when the IUS should be removed and whether you need any extra contraception.

Starting or resuming Hana following emergency contraception:

Ask your pharmacist for advice on how to start taking or resume taking Hana following emergency contraception. If you have taken emergency contraception, it is advisable to wait until day 1 of your next menstrual period before taking Hana.

Emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel can be used with Hana. If you have used emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel during your cycle, you can start or continue taking Hana the same day, but you must use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex for the next 7 days.

Using Hana and emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate together can alter the effect of both these medicines, resulting in reduced contraceptive effect and increased risk of pregnancy. If you have used emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate during your cycle, you must wait 5 days after taking ulipristal acetate before taking Hana and you must also use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex during the 5 days while you wait to start or resume taking Hana and for the first 7 days of taking Hana (i.e. for a total of 12 days).

If you have had a baby:

You can start Hana any day between day 1 and day 21 after the birth of your baby.

If you start later than 21 days afterwards, make sure that you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana. If you have already had unprotected sex, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor before starting Hana.

Your pharmacist, doctor or family planning nurse can also advise you.

What do Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets contain

The active substance is desogestrel. Each film-coated tablet contains 75 microgram desogestrel.

The other ingredients are alpha-tocopherol; maize starch; povidone; stearic acid; hypromellose; macrogol 400; titanium dioxide (E 171); lactose monohydrate.

What is Emergency Contraceptive Richter 1500mcg?

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is an emergency contraceptive that can be used within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex or if your usual contraceptive method has failed.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter contains a synthetic hormone-like active substance called levonorgestrel. It prevents pregnancy in 99% of situations when you take it within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It will not prevent a pregnancy every time and is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It is better to take it within 12 hours rather than delay it until the third day.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is thought to work by:

• stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg;
• preventing sperm from fertilising any egg you may have already released.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex. It does not work if you are already pregnant. If you have unprotected sex after taking Emergency Contraceptive Richter, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant.

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is not indicated for use before the first menstrual bleeding (menarche).

Emergency Contraceptive Richter is not recommended for young women under 16 years of age.

How to take Emergency Contraceptive Richter 1500mcg

Take the tablet as soon as possible, preferably within 12 hours and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after you have had unprotected sex. Do not delay taking the tablet. The tablet works best the sooner you take it after having unprotected sex. It can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

• Emergency Contraceptive Richter can be taken at any time in your menstrual cycle, assuming you are not already pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Do not chew but swallow the tablet whole with water.
• If you are using one of the medicines that may prevent Emergency Contraceptive Richter from working properly (see section above “Other medicines and Emergency Contraceptive Richter”) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 4 weeks, Emergency Contraceptive Richter may work less effectively for you. Your doctor may prescribe another type of (non-hormonal) emergency contraceptive, i.e. a copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). If this is not an option for you or if you cannot see your doctor promptly, you can take a double dose of Emergency Contraceptive Richter (i.e. 2 tablets taken together at the same time).
• If you are already using a regular method of contraception, such as the contraceptive pill, you can continue to take this at your regular times.

If another unprotected intercourse takes place after the use of Emergency Contraceptive Richter (also if this is during the same menstrual cycle), the tablet will not exert its contraceptive effect, and there is again the risk of pregnancy.

What to do if you are sick (vomit)

If you are sick (vomit) within three hours of taking the tablet, you should take another tablet. You will need to contact your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic immediately for one more tablet.

After you have taken Emergency Contraceptive Richter

After taking Emergency Contraceptive Richter, if you want to have sex and are not using the contraceptive pill, you should use condoms or a cap plus spermicide until your next menstrual period. This is because Emergency Contraceptive Richter won’t work if you have unprotected sex again before your next period is due. 

After taking Emergency Contraceptive Richter, you are advised to make an appointment to see your doctor about three weeks later to make sure that Emergency Contraceptive Richter has worked. If your period is more than 5 days late or is unusually light or unusually heavy, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you become pregnant even after taking this medicine, you must see your doctor.

Your doctor can also tell you about longer-term methods of contraception that are more effective in preventing you from getting pregnant.

If you continue to use regular hormonal contraception such as the contraceptive pill and you do not have a bleed in your pill-free period; see your doctor to make sure you are not pregnant.

Your next period after you took Emergency Contraceptive Richter

After using Emergency Contraceptive Richter, your period is usually normal and will start on a usual day; however, sometimes, this will be a few days later or earlier. If your period starts more than 5 days later than expected, ‘abnormal’ bleeding occurs at that time, or if you think that you might be pregnant, you should check whether you are pregnant by a pregnancy test.

If you take more Emergency Contraceptive Richter then you should

Although there have been no reports of serious harmful effects from taking too many tablets at once, you may feel sick, actually, be sick (vomit), or have vaginal bleeding. You should ask your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic for advice, especially if you have been sick, as the tablet may not have worked properly. 

What does Emergency Contraceptive Richter 1500mcg contain

The active substance is levonorgestrel. Each tablet contains 1500 micrograms of levonorgestrel.

The other ingredients are: Potato starch, Maize starch, Silica, colloidal anhydrous, Magnesium stearate, 6 Talc, Lactose monohydrate.

What is Lovima

Lovima contains 75 micrograms of the progestogen desogestrel in every tablet. This is known as a progestogen-only pill (POP), but you may know it better as the ‘mini-pill.

Lovima is a new desogestrel contraception pill that is now available to buy without a prescription, following a consultation with a pharmacist. Desogestrel has previously only been available for women on prescription. When used correctly, it is as effective in preventing pregnancy as prescription-only combination contraceptive pills (containing oestrogen and progestogen together).

Why choose Lovima

With Lovima, you can now buy a contraceptive pill from your pharmacy without seeing your GP for a prescription. It is more effective than using a condom to prevent 99% of pregnancies if used correctly.

With Lovima, you should take one tablet each day simultaneously without a break between each pack.  This means you can take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding as you may find you experience irregular bleeding outside your monthly period cycle or even no period bleeding at all. If you are worried about your bleeding pattern, speak to your pharmacist.

In contrast to the combined pill (containing both oestrogen and progestogen), Lovima can be used by breastfeeding women, subject to a pharmacy consultation.

No blood pressure check is required before taking Lovima, although your pharmacist may be able to take your blood pressure if you are interested. Lovima may be taken whilst breastfeeding, which may not be possible with other contraceptive pills. Your pharmacist will check if Lovima is suitable for you.

With Lovima, you’re in charge of your contraception choice.

How does Lovima work

Lovima contains the progestogen desogestrel, which works in two ways to prevent pregnancy:

• It helps prevent ovulation when an egg is released from your ovaries around the middle of your menstrual cycle. There is nothing for sperm to fertilise if there is no egg, which means pregnancy is avoided.
• It thickens your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to get through and reach any eggs that may have been released.

This dual-action means Lovima is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.

Who can take Lovima

Lovima is suitable for women of childbearing age, following a consultation with a pharmacist. That means any age from starting your first period, all the way through to having gone through menopause. Your pharmacist will go through some questions to make sure Lovima is right for you.

You may even be able to take Lovima if you:

• have just had a baby
• are breastfeeding
• have migraines
• are over 35 years and smoke
• are overweight

You should not take Lovima if you:

• are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• have a thrombosis (a blood clot)
• have or have ever had jaundice or severe liver disease
• have or think you might have cancer that is sensitive to sex steroids (e.g. some forms of breast cancer)
• have any unexplained vaginal bleeding
• are allergic to soy, peanut, lactose or any of the ingredients in Lovima.

How should I take Lovima?

Start Lovima on the first day of your period. This is known as day one of your menstrual cycle.

Take one Lovima tablet simultaneously every day so that you have 24 hours between each dose. Take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding, and you may find your periods become lighter, less frequent, less regular or can stop altogether.

You can take your Lovima tablet with or without food (on an empty stomach), but it is best to swallow it whole and not crush or chew. Taking with water can make it easier to swallow.

To remind you to take Lovima at the same time every day helps to make this a routine, so try and tie it into something that you do at the same time every day. You could take it every morning or night, or take it with a specific meal, whatever works best for you. You could also use an electronic calendar, alarm clock or electronic device to remind you.

Although you can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your cycle, you will need to use additional contraception for 7 days to help keep you protected against pregnancy.

How long does Lovima take to work?

How long Lovima takes to work depends on which day of your period you started Lovima and if you are switching from any other contraceptive.

If you start Lovima on the first day of your period

You do not need to use an additional barrier contraception method (e.g. condom) to protect you from pregnancy.

If you start Lovima after the first day of your period

You can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your period, but you will need to use additional barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima.

If you switch from another hormonal contraception to Lovima

If you are switching from another contraception pill (for example, a combined pill containing oestrogen and progesterone), start taking Lovima the next day after taking your last active pill. You do not need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If you are switching from a patch, vagina ring, implant or IUS, start taking Lovima on the day your patch, vaginal ring, implant or IUS is removed. You don’t need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If there is a break since you last stopped your previous type of hormonal contraception, before starting Lovima, you will need to use a barrier method, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken emergency hormonal contraception before using Lovima

This depends on the type of emergency hormonal contraception you have taken:

If you have taken levonorgestrel (the brand name Levonelle), you can start Lovima straight away, but you will need to either abstain from sex or use barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken ulipristal (the brand name ellaOne), you should wait 5 days before taking Lovima. To prevent pregnancy, use additional contraception (either abstaining from sex or using barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms) for these 5 days PLUS an additional 7 days after starting Lovima.

What are the chances of getting pregnant with Lovima?

Lovima is clinically proven to be 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, provided you take it simultaneously each day from the start of your menstrual cycle.

What should I do if I have forgotten or missed a Pill?

If you are less than 12 hours late

Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the usual time. Lovima will still protect you from pregnancy.

If you are more than 12 hours late

If you are more than 12 hours late taking any pill, you may not be completely protected against pregnancy. The more consecutive pills you have missed, the higher the risk that you might fall pregnant.

Take a pill as soon as you remember and take the next one at the usual time. This may mean taking two pills in one day. This is not harmful. (If you have forgotten more than one pill, you don’t need to take the earlier missed ones.) Continue to take your pills as usual, but you must also use additional barrier contraception (condom) for the next 7 days.

If you are more than 12 hours late taking your pill and have sex, consult your pharmacist for advice.

Missing pills at any time in the cycle can reduce the efficacy of Lovima and risk pregnancy, but if you have missed one or more pills in the first week of taking Lovima and had sex in the week before missing the pill, the risk that you may get pregnant is higher. Ask your pharmacist for advice and if you need to use emergency contraception.

What should I do if I have vomiting or diarrhoea when taking Lovima?

If you have a severe stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, your Lovima tablet may not have been fully absorbed into your body, putting you at risk of pregnancy.

If you vomit within 3 to 4 hours of taking Lovima, then the tablet is considered missed. If you have severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, Lovima may not have been completely absorbed, and the contraception effect may be reduced. You should use an additional method of contraception (for example, barrier methods such as condoms) for the duration of your illness and the first 7 days of normal tablet taking.

If you are not sure what to do, talk to your pharmacist.

If you feel nauseous after taking Lovima

If you feel nauseous but don’t vomit or have diarrhoea, you don’t need to worry. Just carry on taking Lovima as normal to prevent pregnancy. If you continue to feel unwell, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

What is Lovima

Lovima contains 75 micrograms of the progestogen desogestrel in every tablet. This is known as a progestogen-only pill (POP), but you may know it better as the ‘mini-pill.

Lovima is a new desogestrel contraception pill that is now available to buy without a prescription, following a consultation with a pharmacist. Desogestrel has previously only been available for women on prescription. When used correctly, it is as effective in preventing pregnancy as prescription-only combination contraceptive pills (containing oestrogen and progestogen together).

Why choose Lovima

With Lovima, you can now buy a contraceptive pill from your pharmacy without seeing your GP for a prescription. It is more effective than using a condom to prevent 99% of pregnancies if used correctly.

With Lovima, you should take one tablet each day simultaneously without a break between each pack.  This means you can take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding as you may find you experience irregular bleeding outside your monthly period cycle or even no period bleeding at all. If you are worried about your bleeding pattern, speak to your pharmacist.

In contrast to the combined pill (containing both oestrogen and progestogen), Lovima can be used by breastfeeding women, subject to a pharmacy consultation.

No blood pressure check is required before taking Lovima, although your pharmacist may be able to take your blood pressure if you are interested. Lovima may be taken whilst breastfeeding, which may not be possible with other contraceptive pills. Your pharmacist will check if Lovima is suitable for you.

With Lovima, you’re in charge of your contraception choice.

How does Lovima work

Lovima contains the progestogen desogestrel, which works in two ways to prevent pregnancy:

• It helps prevent ovulation when an egg is released from your ovaries around the middle of your menstrual cycle. There is nothing for sperm to fertilise if there is no egg, which means pregnancy is avoided.
• It thickens your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to get through and reach any eggs that may have been released.

This dual-action means Lovima is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.

Who can take Lovima

Lovima is suitable for women of childbearing age, following a consultation with a pharmacist. That means any age from starting your first period, all the way through to having gone through menopause. Your pharmacist will go through some questions to make sure Lovima is right for you.

You may even be able to take Lovima if you:

• have just had a baby
• are breastfeeding
• have migraines
• are over 35 years and smoke
• are overweight

You should not take Lovima if you:

• are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• have a thrombosis (a blood clot)
• have or have ever had jaundice or severe liver disease
• have or think you might have cancer that is sensitive to sex steroids (e.g. some forms of breast cancer)
• have any unexplained vaginal bleeding
• are allergic to soy, peanut, lactose or any of the ingredients in Lovima.

How should I take Lovima?

Start Lovima on the first day of your period. This is known as day one of your menstrual cycle.

Take one Lovima tablet simultaneously every day so that you have 24 hours between each dose. Take one tablet every day until the Lovima packet is empty, then start a new packet with no break. You don’t need to wait a week to allow for bleeding, and you may find your periods become lighter, less frequent, less regular or can stop altogether.

You can take your Lovima tablet with or without food (on an empty stomach), but it is best to swallow it whole and not crush or chew. Taking with water can make it easier to swallow.

To remind you to take Lovima at the same time every day helps to make this a routine, so try and tie it into something that you do at the same time every day. You could take it every morning or night, or take it with a specific meal, whatever works best for you. You could also use an electronic calendar, alarm clock or electronic device to remind you.

Although you can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your cycle, you will need to use additional contraception for 7 days to help keep you protected against pregnancy.

How long does Lovima take to work?

How long Lovima takes to work depends on which day of your period you started Lovima and if you are switching from any other contraceptive.

If you start Lovima on the first day of your period

You do not need to use an additional barrier contraception method (e.g. condom) to protect you from pregnancy.

If you start Lovima after the first day of your period

You can start Lovima on days 2-5 of your period, but you will need to use additional barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima.

If you switch from another hormonal contraception to Lovima

If you are switching from another contraception pill (for example, a combined pill containing oestrogen and progesterone), start taking Lovima the next day after taking your last active pill. You do not need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If you are switching from a patch, vagina ring, implant or IUS, start taking Lovima on the day your patch, vaginal ring, implant or IUS is removed. You don’t need to use additional contraception to protect yourself from pregnancy.

If there is a break since you last stopped your previous type of hormonal contraception, before starting Lovima, you will need to use a barrier method, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken emergency hormonal contraception before using Lovima

This depends on the type of emergency hormonal contraception you have taken:

If you have taken levonorgestrel (the brand name Levonelle), you can start Lovima straight away, but you will need to either abstain from sex or use barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, for the first 7 days of taking Lovima to protect you from pregnancy.

If you have taken ulipristal (the brand name ellaOne), you should wait 5 days before taking Lovima. To prevent pregnancy, use additional contraception (either abstaining from sex or using barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms) for these 5 days PLUS an additional 7 days after starting Lovima.

What are the chances of getting pregnant with Lovima?

Lovima is clinically proven to be 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, provided you take it simultaneously each day from the start of your menstrual cycle.

What should I do if I have forgotten or missed a Pill?

If you are less than 12 hours late

Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the usual time. Lovima will still protect you from pregnancy.

If you are more than 12 hours late

If you are more than 12 hours late taking any pill, you may not be completely protected against pregnancy. The more consecutive pills you have missed, the higher the risk that you might fall pregnant.

Take a pill as soon as you remember and take the next one at the usual time. This may mean taking two pills in one day. This is not harmful. (If you have forgotten more than one pill, you don’t need to take the earlier missed ones.) Continue to take your pills as usual, but you must also use additional barrier contraception (condom) for the next 7 days.

If you are more than 12 hours late taking your pill and have sex, consult your pharmacist for advice.

Missing pills at any time in the cycle can reduce the efficacy of Lovima and risk pregnancy, but if you have missed one or more pills in the first week of taking Lovima and had sex in the week before missing the pill, the risk that you may get pregnant is higher. Ask your pharmacist for advice and if you need to use emergency contraception.

What should I do if I have vomiting or diarrhoea when taking Lovima?

If you have a severe stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, your Lovima tablet may not have been fully absorbed into your body, putting you at risk of pregnancy.

If you vomit within 3 to 4 hours of taking Lovima, then the tablet is considered missed. If you have severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, Lovima may not have been completely absorbed, and the contraception effect may be reduced. You should use an additional method of contraception (for example, barrier methods such as condoms) for the duration of your illness and the first 7 days of normal tablet taking.

If you are not sure what to do, talk to your pharmacist.

If you feel nauseous after taking Lovima

If you feel nauseous but don’t vomit or have diarrhoea, you don’t need to worry. Just carry on taking Lovima as normal to prevent pregnancy. If you continue to feel unwell, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

What are Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

Hana is a daily contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy for women of childbearing age. It is an oral hormonal contraceptive (often called “the pill”). Hana works primarily by preventing a woman’s egg cell from ripening (prevents ovulation); it also has effects on cervical mucus which makes it more difficult for sperm to enter the womb.

Hana contains a small amount of one type of female sex hormone: a progestogen called desogestrel. Unlike the combined pill, Hana does not contain any oestrogen hormone, in addition to the progestogen. For this reason, Hana is called a progestogen-only pill (POP).

In contrast to the combined pill, Hana can be used:

• by women who cannot take oestrogens, or do not want to
• by women who are breastfeeding.

If you think you are post-menopausal, talk to your doctor. You may not need to take contraceptives.

Hormonal contraceptives, including Hana, do not protect you against HIV infection (AIDS) or any other sexually transmitted disease. Only condoms can protect you from sexually transmitted infections.

This product does not work as an emergency contraceptive. If it’s taken every day it will protect against pregnancy in the future.

How to take Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets

When and how to take the tablets

Hana will not prevent pregnancy unless taken exactly as directed. 

Take one tablet at the same time every day, without a break between packs. 

Swallow the tablet whole.

Choose a convenient time of day. It is best to link this to something you already do at the same time every day. For example, when you wake up, or when you brush your teeth.

Never skip your daily tablet. Take it every day, even when you bleed or have spotting.

The Hana pack contains 28/ tablets. The days of the week are printed on the pack, and arrows show the order to take the tablets. Every time you start a new pack of Hana, take a tablet labelled with the correct day. For example, if you start on a Wednesday, you must take a tablet marked with Wed. Don’t start with just any tablet. 

Continue to take one tablet a day until the pack is empty, following the direction shown by the arrows.

When a pack is empty, you must start with a new pack of Hana on the next day, without a break, and without waiting for a bleed.

Starting your first pack of Hana 

Not currently using hormonal contraception: 

If you are not using hormonal contraception now or in the past month (for example, pill, vaginal ring, skin patch, injection, implant, hormone-containing coil (IUS)), wait for your period to begin.

• it is preferable to take your first tablet on day 1 of your period. When doing so, you do not need to use extra contraception
• if you take your first tablet on days 2–5 of your period, use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking the tablets.

Changing from a combined pill:

• if you have had your usual break from a combined pill, take the first Hana tablet on the day after your break, or when you have taken all the inactive tablets of your other contraceptive. If you follow these instructions, make sure you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana
• if you haven’t had your usual break from a combined pill, start taking Hana on the day after you take the last tablet from your present pill pack. Even if your other pill pack contains inactive tablets, you can start Hana on the day after taking the last active tablet. If you are not sure which this is, ask your pharmacist. If you follow these instructions, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from a vaginal ring or skin patch:

• if there has been a break between removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch (ie. you are not starting Hana on the day of removal of the ring or patch), make sure you use extra contraception (for example condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana.
• if you start taking Hana on the day of removal of the vaginal ring or skin patch, you do not need extra contraception

Changing from another progestogen-only pill:

Switch on any day from another progestogen-only pill. You must start the day after you stop your other pill. You do not need extra contraception.

Changing from an injection, implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS):

When changing from an injection, start using Hana on the same day the injection is due. You do not need extra contraception.

When changing from an implant or hormone-containing coil (IUS), start Hana the same day the IUS or implant is removed. Your doctor will advise you when the IUS should be removed and whether you need any extra contraception.

Starting or resuming Hana following emergency contraception:

Ask your pharmacist for advice on how to start taking or resume taking Hana following emergency contraception. If you have taken emergency contraception, it is advisable to wait until day 1 of your next menstrual period before taking Hana.

Emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel can be used with Hana. If you have used emergency contraception containing levonorgestrel during your cycle, you can start or continue taking Hana the same day, but you must use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex for the next 7 days.

Using Hana and emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate together can alter the effect of both these medicines, resulting in reduced contraceptive effect and increased risk of pregnancy. If you have used emergency contraception containing ulipristal acetate during your cycle, you must wait 5 days after taking ulipristal acetate before taking Hana and you must also use additional contraception (for example, condoms) every time you have sex during the 5 days while you wait to start or resume taking Hana and for the first 7 days of taking Hana (i.e. for a total of 12 days).

If you have had a baby:

You can start Hana any day between day 1 and day 21 after the birth of your baby.

If you start later than 21 days afterwards, make sure that you use extra contraception (for example, condoms) for the first 7 days of taking Hana. If you have already had unprotected sex, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor before starting Hana.

Your pharmacist, doctor or family planning nurse can also advise you.

What do Hana (Desogestrel) Mini-Pill 75mcg Tablets contain

The active substance is desogestrel. Each film-coated tablet contains 75 microgram desogestrel.

The other ingredients are alpha-tocopherol; maize starch; povidone; stearic acid; hypromellose; macrogol 400; titanium dioxide (E 171); lactose monohydrate.

What is Levonelle One Step

Levonelle One Step is an emergency contraceptive that can be used within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex or if your usual contraceptive method has failed.

Levonelle One Step contains a synthetic hormone-like substance called levonorgestrel. It prevents about 84% of expected pregnancies when you take it within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It will not prevent a pregnancy every time and is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It is better to take it within 12 hours rather than delay it until the third day.

Levonelle One Step is thought to work by:

• stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg;
• preventing sperm from fertilising any egg you may have already released.

Levonelle One Step can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex. It does not work if you are already pregnant. If you have unprotected sex after taking Levonelle One Step, it will not stop you from becoming pregnant.

Levonelle One Step is not indicated for use before the first menstrual bleeding (menarche).

Levonelle One Step is not recommended for young women under 16 years of age.

How to take Levonelle One Step

Use in children and adolescents

Levonelle One Step is not indicated for use before the first menstrual bleeding (menarche).

Take the tablet as soon as possible, preferably within 12 hours, and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after you have had unprotected sex. Do not delay taking the tablet. The tablet works best the sooner you take it after having unprotected sex. It can only prevent you from becoming pregnant if you take it within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

Levonelle One Step can be taken at any time in your menstrual cycle, assuming you are not already pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Do not chew but swallow the tablet whole with water.

• If you are using one of the medicines that may prevent Levonelle One Step from working properly (see section above “Other medicines and Levonelle One Step”) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 4 weeks, Levonelle One Step may work less effectively for you. Your doctor may prescribe another type of (non-hormonal) emergency contraceptive, i.e. a copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). If this is not an option for you or if you cannot see your doctor promptly, you can take a double dose of Levonelle One Step (i.e. 2 tablets taken together at the same time).
• If you are already using a regular method of contraception such as the contraceptive pill, you can continue to take this at your regular times.

If another unprotected intercourse takes place after the use of Levonelle One Step (also if this is during the same menstrual cycle), the tablet will not exert its contraceptive effect, and there is again the risk of pregnancy.

What to do if you are sick (vomit)

If you are sick (vomit) within three hours of taking the tablet, you should take another tablet. You will need to contact your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic immediately for one more tablet.

After you have taken Levonelle One Step

After taking Levonelle One Step, if you want to have sex and are not using the contraceptive pill, you should use condoms or a cap plus spermicide until your next menstrual period. This is because Levonelle One Step won’t work if you have unprotected sex again before your next period is due.

After taking Levonelle One Step, you are advised to make an appointment to see your doctor about three weeks later to make sure that Levonelle One Step has worked. If your period is more than 5 days late or is unusually light or unusually heavy, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you become pregnant even after taking this medicine, you must see your doctor.

Your doctor can also tell you about longer-term methods of contraception that are more effective in preventing you from getting pregnant.

If you continue to use regular hormonal contraception such as the contraceptive pill and do not bleed in your pill-free period, see your doctor make sure you are not pregnant.

Your next period after you took Levonelle One Step

After using Levonelle One Step, your period is usually normal and will start on a usual day; however, sometimes, this will be a few days later or earlier. If your period starts more than 5 days later than expected, ‘abnormal’ bleeding occurs at that time, or if you think you might be pregnant, you should check whether you are pregnant by a pregnancy test.

If you take more Levonelle One Step than you should

Although there have been no reports of serious harmful effects from taking too many tablets at once, you may feel sick, actually, be sick (vomit), or have vaginal bleeding. You should ask your pharmacist, doctor, practice nurse or family planning clinic for advice, especially if you have been sick, as the tablet may not have worked properly.

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What does Levonelle One Step contain

The active substance is levonorgestrel. One tablet contains 1500 micrograms of levonorgestrel.

The other ingredients are potato starch, maize starch, colloidal silica anhydrous, magnesium stearate, talc, lactose monohydrate.

What is Gygel Contraceptive Jelly

Gygel is called a spermicidal contraceptive since it kills sperm. It should be used along with a barrier method of contraception, such as a vaginal diaphragm or cap, in order to prevent pregnancy.

Following sex, pregnancy may occur if a sperm travels up the vagina and through the entrance to the womb (cervix) and beyond, where it might fertilise an egg. By using a vaginal diaphragm or cap, access to the cervix is blocked, preventing the passage of sperm into the womb.

Spermicidal contraceptives such as Gygel will kill any sperm that may get round a diaphragm, and so will provide more effective contraception.

How to use Gygel Contraceptive Jelly

• Extra gel may be inserted into the vagina using a Vaginal Applicator.

Use with a diaphragm

• With clean hands put about two 2cm strips of gel on each side of your diaphragm.
• Make sure you also spread it along the outside rim of your diaphragm to prevent any sperm from getting past the edge.

Use with a cap

• Fill one-third of the cap with spermicide. Silicone caps have a groove between the dome and the rim and some gel should be placed there also. Do not put any spermicide around the rim as this will stop the cap from staying in place.
• If using a diaphragm/cap this should be put in place inside the vagina before sex and left there for at least six hours after sex.
• If you have sex again during this time, you must apply more Gygel or another spermicide without removing the diaphragm or cap
• If you have sex 3 hours or more after inserting your diaphragm or cap you will need to insert some extra gel.

Warning: your diaphragm should not be left in your vagina for longer than 24 hours.

There is no need to wash your vagina (douching) after sex. However, if you wish to do so, you must wait for at least six hours after intercourse.

What does Gygel Contraceptive Jelly contain?

The active ingredient in Gygel is nonoxinol-9 2.0% w/w.

The other ingredients are: methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E 218), Sorbitol solution (E 420), lactic acid, Povidone K30, propylene glycol, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, Sorbic acid (E 200) and purified water.