1. How soon should I take Levonelle One Step?
Take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It works best within 12 hours, but it can still be taken up to 72 hours after.
What is Levonelle One Step?
Levonelle One Step is an emergency contraception tablet, often called the morning-after pill. It contains levonorgestrel and is used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your usual contraception has failed. It should be taken as soon as possible, ideally within 12 hours, and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex.
It may be used:
- After unprotected sex
- If a condom split or slipped off
- If you missed your regular contraception
- If your usual contraceptive method failed
Levonelle One Step is for emergency use only and should not be used as a regular method of contraception. It does not work if you are already pregnant.
Active ingredient: Levonorgestrel
Who is Levonelle One Step suitable for?
Levonelle One Step is suitable for adults and young women aged 16 years and over who need emergency contraception after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Do not use and seek advice first if:
- You are under 16 years old
- You think you may already be pregnant
- You are allergic to levonorgestrel or any of the ingredients
- You have had unprotected sex more than 72 hours ago
- You have a history of ectopic pregnancy or salpingitis
- You have severe liver problems
- You have Crohn’s disease or another condition that may affect absorption
- You have taken certain medicines in the last 4 weeks that may make Levonelle less effective, such as some epilepsy medicines, rifampicin, some HIV medicines, or St John’s wort
How to use Levonelle One Step
You should always take Levonelle One Step exactly as advised by your pharmacist.
Typical use for adults and young women aged 16 and over:
- Take 1 tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex
- Swallow the tablet whole with water
- Do not delay taking it, as it works better the sooner it is taken
- It can be taken at any time in your menstrual cycle, as long as you are not already pregnant
It is commonly taken:
- As a single dose
- Within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex
If you are sick within 3 hours of taking the tablet, seek advice as you may need another dose. Repeated use within the same menstrual cycle is not advisable.
How to store Levonelle One Step
- Store Levonelle in the original packaging
- Keep below 25 degrees
- Keep in a cool, dry place.
- Store out of the sight and reach of children.
Some people may experience side effects after taking Levonelle One Step.
Possible side effects include:
- Feeling sick
- Lower abdominal pain
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Breast tenderness
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Changes to your next period, which may come earlier or later than usual
Seek medical advice if your period is more than 5 days late, is unusually light or heavy, or if you develop severe abdominal pain.
Order Journey
Place Your Order
Add the product to your basket and complete your purchase in just a few clicks.
Approved by Pharmacy Team
Your order will be reviewed to make sure this medicine is suitable for you.
Discreet Delivery
Your item is shipped quickly in plain, unbranded packaging for your privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
2. What if I am sick after taking Levonelle One Step?
If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the tablet, you may need another dose. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible.
3. Will Levonelle One Step affect my next period?
Your next period may come a little earlier or later than usual, and it may be lighter or heavier. If it is more than 5 days late, take a pregnancy test and seek medical advice.
4. Can I use Levonelle One Step while breastfeeding?
Yes, it can be used while breastfeeding. If you are unsure, speak to your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
5. Can I use Levonelle One Step as regular contraception?
No. Levonelle One Step is for emergency use only and should not be used as a regular method of contraception.
Our Clinical Authors
This page has been written by a registered UK pharmacist and reviewed by our clinical team to ensure it is accurate, clear and reflects current clinical guidance.
Last medically reviewed: 07 July 2026
Last updated: 07 July 2026