Why is this medication prescribed?

Next Choice One Dose is a brand of emergency contraception, commonly known as the “morning-after pill.” It is prescribed or recommended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, such as a condom breaking or missing birth control pills.

Next Choice One Dose contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that is effective in preventing pregnancy when taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected intercourse. It works by delaying or preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), interfering with fertilization, or altering the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

It’s important to note that Next Choice One Dose is not intended to be used as a regular method of contraception. It is meant for emergency situations when other forms of contraception were not used or failed. It should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, preferably within 72 hours, but it may still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse, although its efficacy decreases over time.

While Next Choice One Dose can help prevent pregnancy, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If there is a risk of STIs, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and treatment.

How should this medicine be used?

Next Choice One Dose is an emergency contraceptive pill used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. It contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that helps prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of a fertilized egg.

To use Next Choice One Dose effectively, follow these guidelines:

• Timing: Take the pill as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of the incident, but it can still be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) afterward. Remember that the sooner you take it, the more effective it is likely to be.
• Take the entire pill: Next Choice One Dose comes as a single tablet. Swallow the entire pill with water. Do not chew or crush it.
• Follow the instructions: Read the package insert that comes with the medication for detailed instructions and any specific precautions or warnings. It’s important to understand the information provided.
• Consider a backup method: Next Choice One Dose is designed for emergency situations and is not intended to be used as a regular form of contraception. If you require ongoing contraception, consult with your healthcare provider to discuss appropriate birth control methods.
• Follow up with healthcare provider: After taking Next Choice One Dose, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance, perform necessary tests, and discuss regular contraception options to help prevent future unintended pregnancies.

Remember that emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are concerned about STIs, consult with your healthcare provider regarding appropriate testing and protection methods.

Please note that while I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or read the product’s instructions for specific usage details and any recent updates or changes.

Other uses for this medicine

Next Choice One Dose is primarily intended for use as emergency contraception, but it is not prescribed or recommended for any other uses. It is specifically designed to prevent pregnancy when used within a certain timeframe after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Next Choice One Dose, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional or the medication package insert. Here are some general precautions to keep in mind:

• Timing: Next Choice One Dose is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, preferably within 72 hours (3 days). While it may still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse, its efficacy decreases over time. Therefore, it’s crucial to take it as early as possible.
• Allergic reactions: If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Next Choice One Dose (levonorgestrel or other components), you should not take it. Consult with a healthcare professional about alternative options.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Inform your healthcare professional about any pre-existing medical conditions you may have, especially if you have a history of liver disease, severe pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or ectopic pregnancy. They will assess whether Next Choice One Dose is suitable for you.
• Regular contraception: Next Choice One Dose is not intended for regular contraception. It should only be used in emergency situations. If you require ongoing contraception, consult with your healthcare professional to discuss suitable methods.
• Efficacy: It’s important to note that emergency contraception methods, including Next Choice One Dose, are not 100% effective. While they can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy, there is still a chance of pregnancy occurring.

Remember, these precautions provide general guidance, but it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and medical history.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions to follow when taking Next Choice One Dose. You can take it with or without food, according to your preference.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Next Choice One Dose, it’s important to take it as soon as possible. The efficacy of the medication decreases with time, so the earlier you take it, the more effective it is likely to be. However, it is generally recommended to take Next Choice One Dose within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected intercourse for optimal effectiveness.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Next Choice One Dose, like any medication, may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects associated with Next Choice One Dose include:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Breast tenderness
• Irregular menstrual bleeding or changes in menstrual cycle

These side effects are generally mild and subside on their own within a few days. However, if any of these side effects are severe or persistent, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

It’s important to note that Next Choice One Dose does not cause an abortion and will not be effective if a woman is already pregnant. If you suspect you may be pregnant after taking Next Choice One Dose, it is important to seek medical advice.

Serious side effects from Next Choice One Dose are rare, but they can occur. If you experience any of the following, you should seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe lower abdominal pain, which may indicate an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus).
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist for a complete list of possible side effects and for personalized advice based on your specific medical history and individual circumstances.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

• Storage: Keep Next Choice One Dose at room temperature (between 20°C and 25°C or 68°F and 77°F). Avoid exposing it to excessive heat, moisture, or direct sunlight. Store it in a secure place, out of reach of children or pets.
• Disposal: If you have any unused or expired Next Choice One Dose, it is recommended to consult your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for proper disposal methods. Do not dispose of it in household trash or flush it down the toilet unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or authorized disposal program.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency assistance: If you believe you or someone else may have overdosed on Next Choice One Dose or if you experience severe symptoms or allergic reactions, immediately contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison control: You can also contact your local poison control center for guidance. They will provide instructions on what steps to take in case of an overdose or accidental ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: Next Choice One Dose is more effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected intercourse. It should not be used as a regular form of contraception.
• Follow-up care: After taking Next Choice One Dose, it is advisable to follow up with a healthcare professional for further guidance, pregnancy testing if necessary, and to discuss ongoing contraception options.
• STI protection: Next Choice One Dose does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If there is a risk of STIs, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and treatment.
• Counseling and support: If you have any concerns, questions, or emotional support needs regarding contraception, emergency contraception, or sexual health, consider reaching out to healthcare professionals, sexual health clinics, or support organizations that specialize in reproductive health.

Always consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist for comprehensive and accurate information about Next Choice One Dose, its usage, potential side effects, and any specific concerns you may have.