levonorgestrel + ethinyl estradiol (Berlex Laboratories)

Levlen is a combination oral contraceptive (COC) containing the synthetic progestogen levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) and the synthetic estrogen ethinyl estradiol (0.03 mg). It functions primarily by suppressing the release of gonadotropins, specifically luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), from the pituitary gland, which inhibits ovulation. Secondary mechanisms of action include increasing the viscosity of cervical mucus to impede sperm penetration and altering the endometrium to reduce the likelihood of implantation. Originally developed and marketed by Berlex Laboratories (now part of Bayer), Levlen is primarily indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. It is also utilized for managing conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and ovarian cysts.

Brand names

Levlen

Other names

levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol