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Oc 21 Tablet is used to prevent unintended pregnancy and hormone therapy. It is used as a single agent in emergency contraception, and as a hormonal contraceptive released from an intrauterine device (IUD). It is the most commonly used emergency contraceptive. It contains Levonorgestrel, which prevents the release of an egg from the ovary (female reproductive cells) or prevents fertilization of an egg by sperm (male reproductive cells). It may also change the lining of the uterus to prevent the development of a pregnancy. It does not have any effect if you are already pregnant; hence, it does not cause abortion. In some cases, you may experience nausea, vomiting, lower abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, diarrhoea, dizziness and uterine bleeding.

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Written By Santoshini Reddy G , M Pharmacy
Reviewed By Dr Aneela Siddabathuni , MPharma., PhD
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More about the Product

Manufacturer/Marketer :

Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd

Consume Type :

Oral

Expires on or after :

Jan-27

Return Policy :

Not Returnable

About Oc 21 Tablet

Oc 21 Tablet is an oral medicine used as an emergency contraceptive to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure. It is designed to act as a backup method and is not intended for regular use. This tablet helps prevent pregnancy if taken as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.

Because this is an emergency medicine, it should not be taken frequently or as a substitute for regular birth control. You can take this tablet with or without food, but taking it with a full glass of water is recommended. While no specific diet is required, avoiding alcohol after taking it can prevent stomach upset and vomiting.

Some people may experience mild, temporary side effects like nausea, tiredness, or temporary changes in their monthly period. If you experience severe lower abdominal pain or vomit within two hours of taking the tablet, you should consult your doctor immediately. These symptoms require prompt professional evaluation to ensure the medicine works safely.

Before taking this medicine, talk to your doctor if you have severe liver damage, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or if you suspect you are already pregnant. Do not take this if you are already pregnant, as it will not terminate an existing pregnancy.

Certain medicines, such as those for epilepsy or tuberculosis, can make this treatment less effective, which is why you should discuss your current medications with a healthcare provider. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist to understand how to time your doses safely, though it is generally safe for this group. Elderly individuals do not typically require this medication, but always seek professional advice for any specific health concerns.

Uses of Oc 21 Tablet

Oc 21 Tablet is used to prevent pregnancy. The detailed uses of Oc 21 Tablet are as follows:

  • Emergency contraception: Oc 21 Tablet helps prevent pregnancy when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse or when a regular birth control method fails.
  • Prevention of pregnancy: It acts as a backup option to reduce the risk of pregnancy by stopping ovulation or fertilisation before it can start.

Key Benefits

Oc 21 Tablet provides critical support and reassurance during unexpected situations where pregnancy prevention is needed. Its primary benefits include:

  • Highly effective backup protection: It significantly reduces the chance of unplanned pregnancy when used quickly after unprotected sex.
  • Convenience and ease of use: Delivered as a simple, single-dose oral tablet, it does not require an ongoing medical procedure or complex routine.
  • Rapid reassurance: It offers a reliable window of opportunity to prevent pregnancy, helping to ease anxiety after a contraceptive mishap.
Side effects of Oc 21 Tablet
Overcome Medication-Induced Nausea: A 9-Step Plan
  • Inform your doctor about the nausea and discuss possible alternatives to the medication or adjustments to the dosage.
  • Divide your daily food intake into smaller, more frequent meals to reduce nausea.
  • Opt for bland, easily digestible foods like crackers, toast, plain rice, bananas, and applesauce.
  • Avoid certain foods that can trigger nausea, such as fatty, greasy, spicy, and smelly foods.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or sports drinks.
  • Use ginger (tea, ale, or candies) to help relieve nausea.
  • Get adequate rest and also avoid strenuous activities that can worsen nausea.
  • Talk to your doctor about taking anti-nausea medication if your nausea is severe.
  • Record when your nausea occurs, what triggers it, and what provides relief to help you identify patterns and manage your symptoms more effectively.
  • Drink water or other clear fluids.
  • To prevent worsening of pain, limit intake of tea, coffee, or alcohol.
  • Include bland foods like rice, toast, crackers, and rice in your diet.
  • Avoid lying down immediately after eating as it may cause indigestion or heartburn.
  • Avoid acidic and spicy food as it may cause indigestion.
  • Rest well; get enough sleep.
  • Eat a balanced diet and drink enough water.
  • Manage stress with yoga and meditation.
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine.
  • Physical activities like walking or jogging might help boost energy and make you feel less tired.
Dealing with Medication-Induced Headache:
  • Hydrate your body: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration and headaches.
  • Calm Your Mind: Deep breathing and meditation can help you relax and relieve stress.
  • Rest and Recharge: Sleep for 7-8 hours to reduce headache triggers.
  • Take rest: lie down in a quiet, dark environment.
  • Cold or warm compresses can help reduce tension.
  • Stay Upright: Maintain good posture to keep symptoms from getting worse.
  • To treat headaches naturally, try acupuncture or massage therapy.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Prescription Assistance: Speak with your doctor about more substantial drug alternatives.
  • Severe Headaches: Seek emergency medical assistance for sudden, severe headaches.
  • Frequent Headaches: If you get reoccurring headaches, consult your doctor.
  • Headaches with Symptoms: Seek medical attention if your headaches include fever, disorientation, or weakness.
Here are the 7 steps to manage Dizziness caused by medication:
  • Inform your doctor about dizziness symptoms. They may adjust your medication regimen or prescribe additional medications to manage symptoms.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions for taking medication, and take it at the same time every day to minimize dizziness.
  • When standing up, do so slowly and carefully to avoid sudden dizziness.
  • Avoid making sudden movements, such as turning or bending quickly, which can exacerbate dizziness.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help alleviate dizziness symptoms.
  • If you're feeling dizzy, sit or lie down and rest until the dizziness passes.
  • Track when dizziness occurs and any factors that may trigger it, and share this information with your doctor to help manage symptoms.
  • Use hot or cold packs on your breasts to help alleviate discomfort.
  • Choose a supportive, well-fitting bra, preferably one that has been professionally fitted.
  • Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety that may accompany severe breast pain.
  • Limit or avoid caffeine consumption.
  • Eat a low-fat diet and focus on foods rich in complex carbohydrates.
  • Rubbing evening primrose oil on your breasts may help balance fatty acids in the cells and reduce pain.
  • Keep track of when your breast pain occurs and any other symptoms to determine if the pain is regular or not.
  • Vitamin E supplements may help reduce pain for women who experience pain linked to their menstrual cycle.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief, but be sure to consult your doctor for the correct dosage, as prolonged use may cause side effects.

Directions for Use

  • Oc 21 Tablet can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help prevent nausea and stomach upset.
  • It should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, either when no contraception was used during the sexual intercourse or if the usual contraceptive method has failed.
  • Swallow Oc 21 Tablet as a whole with a glass of water.
  • Do not crush, break, or chew it.

How Oc 21 Tablet Works

Oc 21 Tablet works primarily by preventing or delaying the release of an egg from your ovary, a process known as ovulation. By stopping ovulation, there is no egg available for sperm to fertilise. If ovulation has already occurred, the active ingredient, Oc 21 Tablet, may also work by preventing the sperm from fertilising the egg. Additionally, it can alter the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilised egg from attaching to it. It is important to understand that Oc 21 Tablet will not work if you are already pregnant, as it cannot reverse an existing pregnancy that has already implanted in the uterus.
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Alcohol

Caution

Alcohol is not known to cause any unpleasant side effects if taken along with Oc 21 Tablet. But avoid alcohol consumption while taking Oc 21 Tablet.

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Pregnancy

Unsafe

Oc 21 Tablet is not recommended for use if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy as this medicine is used to avoid unintended pregnancy.

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Breast Feeding

Unsafe

Oc 21 Tablet should not be taken if breastfeeding as it may pass through the milk to the baby.

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Driving

Unsafe

Oc 21 Tablet can affect your ability to drive or use machines. However, if you feel tired or dizzy, do not drive or operate machinery.

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Liver

Caution

Oc 21 Tablet should be taken with caution, especially if you have a history of liver disease. Your doctor may have to adjust the dose.

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Kidney

Caution

Oc 21 Tablet to be taken with caution, especially if you have a history of kidney disease. Your doctor may have to adjust the dose.

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Children

Caution

Oc 21 Tablet is not recommended for children under 16 yeras of age. If necessary, your doctor will decide whether to give it.

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Heart

Unsafe

Oc 21 Tablet is not recommended for use in heart patients as it can lead to side effects like heart attack, blood clots, or stroke in some patients.

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Geriatrics

Unsafe

Oc 21 Tablet is not recommended for use in elderly patients and postmenopausal women.

What if I have taken an overdose of Oc 21 Tablet

If you take more than the recommended dose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control centre right away, even if you do not feel any symptoms of illness.

Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • Avoid consuming alcohol immediately after taking this medicine, as alcohol can increase nausea and trigger vomiting, which may prevent the medicine from being fully absorbed.
  • If you experience dizziness or fatigue after taking the tablet, avoid driving, cycling, or operating machinery until you feel fully alert.
  • Monitor your menstrual cycle closely over the next month. If your next period is delayed by more than one week, take a pregnancy test to verify if the medicine was successful.
  • Use barrier contraceptive methods, such as condoms, for any sexual activity after taking this medicine until your next menstrual cycle starts, as Oc 21 Tablet does not provide ongoing protection.
     

Have a query?

How Soon It Starts Working

The time required for Oc 21 Tablet to start to work: The time required for Oc 21 Tablet to show its action is unknown. The time for which the effects of Oc 21 Tablet last: The duration of action for Oc 21 Tablet is unknown.

What if you forget to take Oc 21 Tablet

Because Oc 21 Tablet is typically taken as a single, one-time dose for emergency contraception, a missed dose is not common. However, if your doctor has suggested this medicine as a daily preventive routine and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Use a backup birth control method, such as condoms, for the next 48 hours and talk to your doctor or pharmacist for specific advice.

Storage

•Store the tablets at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). •Keep the medicine in its original blister packaging until you are ready to take it, protecting it from direct light and moisture.

Drug Warnings

  • Always inspect the packaging before taking the medicine; do not take the tablet if the blister pack is torn, punctured, or damaged.
  • Remember that this medicine is designed strictly as an emergency backup and should not be used as a regular, long-term method of birth control.
  • This medication does not protect you from HIV, AIDS, or other sexually transmitted infections; always use condoms to prevent these diseases.
  • If you vomit within two hours of taking the tablet, the active medicine may not have entered your system, so you must consult a healthcare provider immediately about a replacement dose.
  • Be aware that if you experience severe pain in your lower stomach three to five weeks after use, you must seek medical attention immediately to check for an ectopic pregnancy.
     

Drug-Drug Interactions

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Before using Oc 21 Tablet, it is important to understand how it interacts with other substances or underlying health conditions. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about all the products you currently use.

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Certain anti-seizure medicines (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital): These medicines can increase the activity of liver enzymes that break down Oc 21 Tablet, potentially reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of contraceptive failure.
  • Tuberculosis medicines (e.g., rifampin/rifampicin): Rifampin and similar medicines may significantly reduce the levels of Oc 21 Tablet in the body, making it less effective at preventing pregnancy.
  • Certain HIV medicines (e.g., efavirenz): Some antiretroviral medicines can lower the concentration of Oc 21 Tablet in the bloodstream, which may reduce contraceptive protection.
  • Hypericum perforatum: This herbal supplement can speed up the breakdown of Oc 21 Tablet in the body, potentially reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy.

Drug-Food Interactions

  • Food and alcohol: No specific food interactions have been established for Oc 21 Tablet. However, excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of nausea or vomiting, which could interfere with absorption if vomiting occurs shortly after taking the tablet. Consult your doctor if vomiting occurs after a dose.

Drug-Disease Interactions

  • Severe liver disease: Do not use Oc 21 Tablet if you have severe liver impairment, as your liver may not be able to process the medicine properly, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding: Patients with unusual or undiagnosed vaginal bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare professional before starting Oc 21 Tablet to identify and treat any underlying medical condition.
LevonorgestrelEtretinate
Critical

Drug-Drug Interactions

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How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Coadministration of Acitretin with Oc 21 Tablet can increase the risk and severity of birth defects in unborn when taken by a pregnant woman.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Acitretin with Oc 21 Tablet together is generally avoided as it can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has advised it. Consult a doctor if you get pregnant while taking these medications. Never use acitretin if you are pregnant. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
LevonorgestrelEtretinate
Critical
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Using etretinate and Oc 21 Tablet can cause severe birth defects.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Etretinate with Oc 21 Tablet can cause an interaction, consult a doctor before taking it. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Taking Oc 21 Tablet with Tranexamic acid may increase the risk of blood clot formation which can lead to serious conditions such as heart problems and kidney failure.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Tranexamic acid with Oc 21 Tablet may leads to an interaction but can be taken if prescribed by the doctor. However, if you experience chest pain; shortness of breath; coughing up blood; blood in the urine; sudden loss of vision; and pain, redness, or swelling in your arm or leg, consult the doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
LevonorgestrelAmprenavir
Severe
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Using amprenavir together with Oc 21 Tablet may cause amprenavir to be less effective.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Oc 21 Tablet with Amprenavir together can result in an interaction, but it can be taken if a doctor has advised it. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to contact a doctor right away. They can help you with different choices for birth control that may suit you. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
LevonorgestrelMycophenolate Mofetil
Severe
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Taking Oc 21 Tablet with Mycophenolate mofetil can decrease the levels of Oc 21 Tablet in the body. This increases the risk of severe bleeding and unintended pregnancy.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Mycophenolate Mofetil and Oc 21 Tablet together can cause an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has suggested it. Contact a doctor if you experience worsening of your symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, or abnormal bleeding. Do not discontinue any medication without consulting a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Taking Oc 21 Tablet and carbamazepine together can reduce the effects of Oc 21 Tablet.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Oc 21 Tablet and carbamazepine together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has prescribed it. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms contact a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Carfilzomib can occasionally cause dangerous blood clots and using it together with Oc 21 Tablet may increase the risk.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Carfilzomib with Oc 21 Tablet can result in an interaction, but it can be taken if a doctor has advised it. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to contact a doctor right away: blood clots that can be harmful, high blood pressure or cholesterol, heart problems like heart attack or blockage in the lung, stroke, complications, chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, sudden vision loss, pain, redness, or swelling in an arm or leg, and numbness or weakness on one side of your body. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Using Oc 21 Tablet with tizanidine can result in increased side effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Oc 21 Tablet and tizanidine together can result in an interaction, they can be taken if a doctor has prescribed it. However, if you experience drowsiness, confusion, slow heart rate, shallow breathing, feeling light-headed, fainting, consult the doctor. Do not discontinue any medication without consulting a doctor.
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
A combined use of Oc 21 Tablet with mycophenolic acid may reduce the blood levels and effects of Oc 21 Tablet, which may make it less reliable as a form of birth control, mycophenolic acid may cause pregnancy loss in the first trimester and also birth defects in the unborn child.

How to manage the interaction:
There could be a possible interaction between Mycophenolic acid and Oc 21 Tablet, but they can be taken together if a doctor has prescribed them. However, if you take hormone replacement (Oc 21 Tablet) for menopause, and if you experience hot flashes, vaginal dryness, or abnormal bleeding consult a doctor. Do not discontinue any medications without a doctor's advice.
How does the drug interact with Oc 21 Tablet:
Taking Oc 21 Tablet and Phenytoin may lower Oc 21 Tablet blood levels and effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Oc 21 Tablet and phenytoin together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has prescribed it. If you use hormone replacement treatment(Oc 21 Tablet) for menopause, consult the doctor if your experience abnormal bleeding. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.

Drug-Food Interactions

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LEVONORGESTREL-1.5MGGrapefruit and Grapefruit Juice
Moderate

Drug-Food Interactions

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LEVONORGESTREL-1.5MGGrapefruit and Grapefruit Juice
Moderate
Common Foods to Avoid:
Grapefruit Juice, Grapefruit

How to manage the interaction:
Consumption of grapefruit juice with Oc 21 Tablet the blood level of Oc 21 Tablet may increase. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice when taking Oc 21 Tablet.

All Substitutes & Brand Comparisons

Habit Forming

No

Therapeutic Class

[CONTRACEPTIVES]

FAQs

Oc 21 Tablet is a female hormone called progestin (a form of progesterone) used to prevent unintended pregnancy. Besides this, it can also used as a hormone therapy.
Some of the common side effects of Oc 21 Tablet are nausea, vomiting, lower abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, diarrhoea, dizziness and uterine bleeding in some cases.
Oc 21 Tablet is not indicated for regular birth control. It is only used as emergency contraception (within 72 hours) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
Oc 21 Tablet does not affect fertility. Use contraception during sexual intercourse as it may lead to unwanted pregnancy if you are not planning it.
Do not take Oc 21 Tablet if you have a heart fitted with an artificial valve, heart diseases like high blood pressure or high blood cholesterol levels (increased fat in your blood), confirmed or suspected ectopic pregnancy, asthma, blood clot problems, a bleeding disorder, liver or kidney disease, anemia (low haemoglobin), or are otherwise malnourished. Taking Oc 21 Tablet in these conditions can cause life-threatening conditions in an individual.
Oc 21 Tablet should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex when no contraception was used during the sexual intercourse or if the contraception measure was used incorrectly.
Take Oc 21 Tablet exactly as advised by the doctor. Oc 21 Tablet should be swallowed as a whole with water. It should be taken preferably within 12 hours, and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after you have had unprotected sex.
Oc 21 Tablet prevents about 84% of expected pregnancies if taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. It is more effective if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
Levonorgestrel may pass into breast milk. Please consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Though Oc 21 Tablet considerably lowers the chance of getting pregnant, if your periods are delayed by 5 days or you have experienced unusual bleeding, you can take a pregnancy test.
Oc 21 Tablet does not protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and HIV / AIDS. Using condoms can help protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and HIV / AIDS.
An emergency contraceptive pill prevents pregnancy whereas an abortion pill ends an existing pregnancy.
Oc 21 Tablet is effective if you have had frequent acts of intercourse in a short span of time. However, it is important that these acts have occurred within 72 hours before taking Oc 21 Tablet. Also, since there is a chance of unintended pregnancy after frequent acts of unprotected sex in the same cycle, it is advisable to use a barrier contraceptive method such as condoms until the next period even after using Oc 21 Tablet.
To get the best results, you should take Oc 21 Tablet as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need further guidance.
It is not recommended to use Oc 21 Tablet multiple times within the same menstrual cycle because it can disrupt your normal hormonal balance and cause irregular bleeding. If you need regular contraception, talk to your doctor.
It is common for your period to be a few days early or late after taking this medicine. However, if your period is delayed by more than seven days, you should take a pregnancy test and talk to your doctor.
Some clinical evidence suggests that emergency contraceptives may be less effective in individuals who weigh more than 165 pounds (75 kg). However, it is still recommended for use if needed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns about its effectiveness.
If you vomit within two hours of taking Oc 21 Tablet, the tablet may not have been fully absorbed, and you may need to take another dose. Contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately for advice on what to do next.

Disclaimer

While we strive to provide complete, accurate, and expert-reviewed content on our 'Platform', we make no warranties or representations and disclaim all responsibility and liability for the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the aforementioned content. The content on our platform is for informative purposes only, and may not cover all clinical/non-clinical aspects. Reliance on any information and subsequent action or inaction is solely at the user's risk, and we do not assume any responsibility for the same. The content on the Platform should not be considered or used as a substitute for professional and qualified medical advice. Please consult your doctor for any query pertaining to medicines, tests and/or diseases, as we support, and do not replace the doctor-patient relationship.

Country of origin

India

Manufacturer/Marketer address

Sun House, Cts No. 201 B/1, Western Express Highway, Goregaon (E), Mumbai 400063
Other Info - OC20001
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