What is PiDaNa?
PiDaNa is an emergency contraceptive containing the active ingredient levonorgestrel. It can prevent pregnancy up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sexual intercourse.
PiDaNa has been available without a prescription in Germany since 2015 and is a proven option for emergency contraception.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Levonorgestrel 1,5 mg
Levonorgestrel is a progestin that delays or prevents ovulation. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is.
PiDaNa is NOT an abortion pill – an existing pregnancy is not terminated.
Who is it suitable for?
Women after contraceptive failure, if it can be taken within 72 hours.
Available Dosages
One tablet containing 1.5 mg levonorgestrel.
How to Take
Take as soon as possible, with or without food. If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the tablet, take another tablet immediately. If vomiting continues, the effectiveness of PiDaNa is not guaranteed. In that case, see a doctor.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel or to any of the other ingredients. PiDaNa should not be taken if a pregnancy is known or suspected. PiDaNa is not recommended in severe liver impairment.
Possible Side Effects
Nausea, headache, lower abdominal pain, menstrual cycle disorders.
Interactions
Some medicines speed up the breakdown of levonorgestrel and can lower the level of the active substance in the blood. This has been established for efavirenz. It is suspected for the following, among others:
- ritonavir
- barbiturates (including primidone), phenytoin and carbamazepine
- rifampicin and rifabutin
- griseofulvin
- herbal medicines containing St John's wort
If you have taken such a medicine in the last 4 weeks, non-hormonal emergency contraception is recommended, i.e. a copper IUD. If you cannot or do not want to use a copper IUD, taking 2 tablets together (double dose) is an alternative, although this combination has not been studied. If you vomit within 3 hours of the double dose, take two more tablets immediately.
Levonorgestrel can inhibit the breakdown of ciclosporin and thereby increase the risk of toxic effects of ciclosporin.
Simultaneous use with medicines containing ulipristal acetate is not recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
PiDaNa works well in the first 24 hours. Limited and inconclusive data suggest that the effectiveness of PiDaNa may be reduced at higher body weight or body mass index (BMI). Regardless of body weight, the morning-after pill should be taken as soon as possible. ellaOne works longer (up to 5 days) and is more effective at higher body weight.
Similar Medications
Is PiDaNa right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.