Progestogen-only pill names: how to identify yours

Look for the brand, active ingredient, strength, and directions for daily use. The leaflet explains when protection starts, how to handle a missed tablet, and whether vomiting or diarrhoea changes the plan. Levonorgestrel is an example of an active hormone ingredient used in contraception.

Bleeding changes are common with progestogen-only contraception and can include spotting, irregular periods, or no bleeding. A name change does not necessarily explain every symptom, so persistent or severe symptoms need an assessment.

Keep your current pack until the next supply is confirmed, and show the box to a pharmacist if the appearance or name changes. Take your tablet at a consistent time and save the missed-pill instructions where you can find them quickly.

Before starting another medicine or herbal remedy, ask whether it can reduce contraceptive protection. If a switch or missed dose may have affected protection, use condoms and seek timely product-specific advice.

Get urgent help for chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, coughing blood, fainting, sudden weakness, or a painful swollen leg. Contact a clinician promptly for severe abdominal pain, a positive pregnancy test, unusually heavy bleeding, or a concerning reaction after a medicine change.

Ask which name and active ingredient are on your prescription, what late-dose window applies, and whether a substitute pack has the same rules. You may also ask how this option compares with the combined pill.