EllaOne Emergency Contraception is an oral contraceptive pill that is taken after unprotected sexual intercourse.

It is effective for up to 5 days after unprotected sex, however, the sooner you take it the more effective it is.

EllaOne should be used in case of emergency. It is not designed to be a replacement for regular contraception.

 

How EllaOne Emergency Contraception works

EllaOne Emergency Contraception works by delaying ovulation. It stops sperm from finding an egg to fertilise, preventing pregnancy. 

 

Directions

Always take EllaOne Emergency Contraception exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as your doctor / pharmacist has told you. 

Take 1 tablet as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the tablet, contact your GP or pharmacist as you may need to take another one.

 

Side effects

EllaOne Emergency Contraception may cause side effects in some people, but these won’t affect everybody. Common side effects include: 

  • Headaches
  • Stomach pain 
  • Breast tenderness
  • Changes in mood
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness 
  • Painful periods 
  • Muscle pain or back pain

 

If you experience any side effects, including any not included in the patient information leaflet, you can report them using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

 

Serious side effects

Seek emergency medical attention if you notice any signs of a severe allergic reaction, symptoms of which include swelling of the face and throat, skin rash, breathing difficulties and/or loss of consciousness. 

 

Warnings

EllaOne Emergency Contraception may be unsuitable for certain people. Do not take this tablet if you are allergic to any of the ingredients.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this tablet if: 

  • Your period is late or you have symptoms of pregnancy
  • You suffer from severe asthma 
  • You suffer from severe liver disease



Using/taking other medicines

If you are taking or have recently taken any medication, including medication obtained without a prescription, talk to your GP or pharmacist before taking this product.

If you have taken any of the following medications in the last 4 weeks, EllaOne Emergency Contraception may not be suitable for you:

  • Medicines used to treat epilepsy e.g. primidone, phenobarbital, phenytoin, fosphenytoin, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine and barbiturates
  • Medicines to treat tuberculosis e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin 
  • HIV treatments e.g. ritonavir, efavirenz, nevirapine
  • Medicines to treat fungal infections e.g. griseofulvin 
  • Herbal remedies containing St John’s wort

 

Age restrictions 

This product is not suitable for anyone under the age of 16.

You can only purchase this product from if you are over 18

 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, you must ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any new product.  EllaOne Emergency Contraception will not work if you are already pregnant.

 

Driving and operating machinery 

This product can cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you feel safe enough to do so.

 

Storage information

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date, referring to the last day of the month stated on the packaging. 

 

Important information

Make sure to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or  pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or pharmacist if this product is right for you.

Store out of sight and reach of children.

Please read the included leaflet carefully before taking this product.

Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.