Plan B One-Step Side Effects

Generic name: levonorgestrel

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 22, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Plan B One-Step.

Applies to levonorgestrel: intrauterine device, oral tablet, subcutaneous implant Side Effects associated with levonorgestrel. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Plan B One-Step.

Applies to levonorgestrel: intrauterine device, oral tablet, subcutaneous implant.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported adverse effects are alterations of menstrual bleeding patterns, nausea, abdominal/pelvic pain, headache/migraine, dizziness, fatigue, amenorrhea, ovarian cysts, genital discharge, acne/seborrhea, breast tenderness, and vulvovaginitis.^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Very common (10% or more): Irregular menstrual bleeding (67%), infrequent menstrual bleeding (up to 57%), ovarian cyst (31.2%), menstrual changes (up to 31.9%), decreased uterine bleeding (23.4%), prolonged menstrual bleeding (22%), vulvovaginitis (20.2%), amenorrhea (18.4%), genital discharge (up to 14.9%), heavier menstrual bleeding (13.8%),vaginal infections (13.6%), vulvovaginal infections (13.3%), lighter menstrual bleeding (12.5%), increased scheduled uterine bleeding (11.9%), breast tenderness (10.7%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Dysmenorrhea, breast pain/discomfort, upper genital tract infection, genital tract bleeding, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis, dyspareunia, pelvic discomfort/pain, delay of menses more than 7 days, vaginal discharge, bleeding not related to menses
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Uterine spasm, cervicitis/Papanicolaou smear normal class II, change in vaginal secretion
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Uterine perforation
• Frequency not reported: Breast enlargement, vaginal candidiasis, changes in cervical erosion, changes in cervical secretion, ectopic pregnancy
• Postmarketing reports: Oligomenorrhea, irregular menstruation^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Nausea (up to 23.1%), abdominal/pelvic pain (up to 22.6%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, vomiting
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Abdominal distension
• Frequency not reported: Bloating, abdominal cramps^[Ref]

Other

• Very common (10% or more): Fatigue (16.9%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Partial/complete IUS expulsion, weight increased
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Edema, change in body weight
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Face edema
• Frequency not reported: Decreased weight, sepsis, group A streptococcal sepsis
• Postmarketing reports: IUS breakage, procedural bleeding^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Headache (up to 16.8%), dizziness (11.2%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Migraine
• Postmarketing reports: Stroke, syncope, IUS insertion related vasovagal reaction or seizure^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Common (1% to 10%): Depression/depressed mood, mood changes, mood swings, decreased libido, nervousness
• Frequency not reported: Changes in libido^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Very common (10% or more): Acne/seborrhea (15%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Alopecia, hirsutism
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Pruritus, eczema, pigmentation changes/hyperpigmentation
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Rash, urticaria
• Frequency not reported: Chloasma, melasma
• Postmarketing reports: Angioedema^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Postmarketing reports: Increased blood pressure, arterial/venous thrombotic events, pulmonary emboli, deep vein thrombosis, stroke^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Back pain^[Ref]

Oncologic

• Frequency not reported: Benign/malignant liver tumors
• Postmarketing reports: Breast cancer^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Contact lens intolerance^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Diabetes mellitus^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Allergic reaction
• Postmarketing reports: Hypersensitivity reactions^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• Can Plan B make your period late or cause bleeding?
• Can you drink alcohol after taking Plan B?
• How effective is Plan B and how late can you take it?
• How many times can you take Plan B?
• What's the weight limit for Plan B?
• What are my birth control options and how effective are they?
• Mirena, Kyleena, Skyla & Liletta - What's the difference?

Further information

Plan B One-Step side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer