The Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) has clarified the proper use of medicines containing the active ingredient levonorgestrel, following media reports that caused confusion by mixing information on different drugs.
Contrary to some reports suggesting that a popular medicine known as P2 is used to terminate pregnancy, TMDA confirmed that levonorgestrel is strictly an emergency contraceptive.
It is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse and should be taken within 72 hours of the incident. The medicine is approved as a safe and effective family planning method.
Users of levonorgestrel may experience side effects such as changes in the menstrual cycle, lighter or heavier bleeding, early or delayed periods, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, bloating, and headaches.
TMDA emphasized that levonorgestrel does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The Authority also addressed the misuse of misoprostol, which some individuals use to induce abortion without medical supervision.
TMDA strongly condemns such practices due to serious health risks. Approved uses of misoprostol include prevention of stomach ulcers, medical abortion under professional guidance, labor induction and cervical ripening, prevention of postpartum hemorrhage, and management of miscarriage.
Misoprostol can cause side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, headache, shivering, vaginal bleeding, rapid heartbeat, breathing difficulties, rashes, menstrual changes, fever, and dizziness. It should never be used by a pregnant woman without medical supervision.
TMDA urges the public to always follow health professionals’ guidance before and after using any medicines to safeguard their health and well-being.