LEVONORGESTREL Meaning and
Definition
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Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone that belongs to a class of medications known as progestins. It is primarily used as a type of emergency contraception commonly called the "morning-after pill." In contraceptive medicine, it is considered a highly effective and safe method for preventing unintended pregnancy when used correctly.
Levonorgestrel works by disrupting the normal hormonal balance in the body, thereby preventing or delaying ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. It also alters the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to implantation in case fertilization occurs. It is crucial to note that levonorgestrel is not an abortion pill and will not be effective if implantation has already taken place.
Additionally, levonorgestrel may have other medical applications such as in the treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome. It may also be used in combination with estrogen as a component of hormone replacement therapy.
Levonorgestrel is widely available as an over-the-counter medication without a prescription, making it easily accessible to those seeking emergency contraception. It is typically administered orally in the form of tablets, with varying recommended dosages depending on the specific product and situation.
As with any medication, levonorgestrel may have potential side effects, including nausea, headache, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual bleeding. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using levonorgestrel, particularly if there are underlying health conditions or if there is uncertainty about its suitability or proper usage.
Common Misspellings for LEVONORGESTREL
- kevonorgestrel
- pevonorgestrel
- oevonorgestrel
- lwvonorgestrel
- lsvonorgestrel
- ldvonorgestrel
- lrvonorgestrel
- l4vonorgestrel
- l3vonorgestrel
- leconorgestrel
- lebonorgestrel
- legonorgestrel
- lefonorgestrel
- levinorgestrel
- levknorgestrel
- levlnorgestrel
- levpnorgestrel
- lev0norgestrel
- lev9norgestrel
- levoborgestrel
Etymology of LEVONORGESTREL
The word "Levonorgestrel" comes from multiple elements:
1. "Levo": This prefix comes from the Latin word "laevus", meaning "left". In terms of stereochemistry, "lev-" indicates that the molecule has a particular spatial arrangement where the functional groups are oriented to the left. This is relevant because levonorgestrel is an enantiomer, meaning it exists in two mirror-image forms (left and right).
2. "Nor": This prefix indicates that levonorgestrel is a derivative of a parent compound called "norgestrel". "Nor-" is a common prefix used in chemistry to indicate that a specific functional group is missing or modified in the parent compound.
3. "gestrel": This suffix is derived from "gestational" and "steroidal".
