Meet Lovima, an easy-to-use and reliable over-the-counter oral contraceptive pill designed specifically for women who are of the age to have children. It carries desogestrel, a synthetic version of progesterone, which is known to prevent pregnancy with a 99% success rate when used as intended. Because Lovima does not require a prescription, it provides an uncomplicated solution for those women who want to manage their own contraceptive needs.

Key Features:

• Preventing pregnancy
• Active component: Desogestrel
• Success rate: 99% when used as directed
• Can be purchased without a prescription
• Appropriate for most women who can have children

What is the active ingredient and how does it work?

The active component in Lovima is desogestrel, a synthetic form of progesterone. Its job is to prevent ovulation, while also changing the consistency of cervical mucus to make it tougher for sperm to reach the egg.

Are there any known side effects?

Some women taking Lovima may experience changes to or absence of their menstrual cycle, feelings of depression, a decreased interest in sexual activity, headaches, nausea, acne, breast pain, and weight gain. Less frequently observed side effects can include vaginal infection, difficulties with contact lenses, vomiting, hair loss, painful menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and fatigue.

What does the research say about this product?

Lovima, a contraceptive pill with desogestrel as its active ingredient, has been shown to be 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly. Desogestrel is a recognized and commonly used ingredient in contraceptives.

How long does it take before I can see effects of the product?

If Lovima is started on the first day of your menstrual cycle, it can prevent pregnancy from the very first day of use. However, everyone is unique, so individual experiences may vary.

Is this product suitable for children or the elderly?

Lovima has been created specifically for women of child-bearing age and is not designed to be used by children or elderly individuals.

Can this product be used during pregnancy?

No, Lovima should not be used during pregnancy. If you think you might be pregnant, it is advised that you speak with a healthcare professional before using Lovima.

Can Lovima be taken with other medications?

Certain medications, like those that induce liver enzymes and some herbal medications like St. John's Wort, may interfere with the effectiveness of Lovima. It's important to talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using Lovima if you are currently taking other medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Lovima?

If you forget to take a dose of Lovima and are less than 12 hours late, take the forgotten pill as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular schedule. There is no need for additional contraception in this scenario. If you are more than 12 hours late, check the patient information leaflet or ask your pharmacist for more guidance.

How soon after stopping Lovima can I get pregnant?

You may be able to conceive within days or weeks of discontinuing Lovima. If you do not want to get pregnant, it is crucial to start another form of contraception immediately.

Can Lovima cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a potential side effect of Lovima, affecting up to 1 in 10 women.

Is Lovima suitable for breastfeeding mothers?

Before using Lovima while breastfeeding, it is advised that you consult with a healthcare professional as the suitability of this medication can vary based on personal circumstances.

How do I stop taking Lovima?

You can cease using Lovima anytime, but remember that you will no longer be protected from pregnancy from the day you discontinue. Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance on alternative contraception methods.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

If you experience any side effects while taking Lovima, you should seek advice from a healthcare professional. If serious side effects occur, such as angioedema or symptoms of a blood clot, immediate medical attention is required.

Can I take Lovima if I have a history of blood clots?

If you have previously had blood clots or are at a heightened risk of developing them, it's advised that you consult with a healthcare professional before using Lovima, as it might not be the right choice for you.

Active Ingredient: Desogestrel 75 micrograms per tablet

Additional Ingredients:

Tablet core: Lactose monohydrate: 55.07 mg, Maize starch, Povidone K30 (E1201), d-α-Tocopherol (E307), Soybean oil: maximum 0.026 mg, Silica, colloidal hydrated (E551), Silica, colloidal anhydrous (E551), Stearic acid (E570)

Coating: Hypromellose 2910 (E464), Polyethylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide (E 171)

• Take one Lovima tablet every day at the same time
• Start taking Lovima on the first day of your period
• Ensure there is a 24-hour interval between two tablets
• Do not take any pill-free breaks between packs
• Lovima is 99% effective if taken correctly

Additional information:

• Swallow the tablet whole, with or without food
• If switching from a combined pill, vaginal ring, or transdermal patch, start Lovima the day after taking the last active pill or removing the ring/patch
• If changing from an implant, hormonal IUS, or injectable, start Lovima on the day of removal or when the next injection would be due
• Use additional barrier contraception (e.g., condom) for the first 7 days if there is a break between the last active combined oral contraceptive (COC) and taking Lovima

• Do not take Lovima if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
• Lovima is not suitable for adolescents below 18 years, as the safety and efficacy have not been established.
• Lovima does not protect against HIV (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases. Use condoms for protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
• Do not take Lovima if you have thrombosis (blood clot).
• Lovima contains lactose monohydrate and soybean oil. Do not take if you have a known allergy to desogestrel, lactose, or any of the ingredients in Lovima.
• Do not take Lovima if you have rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.
• Exercise caution if you have a history of breast cancer, diabetes, liver cancer, chloasma, or depressed mood arising during use.
• The efficacy of Lovima may be reduced in the event of missed tablets, gastrointestinal disturbances, or concomitant medications.
• Stop taking Lovima if sustained hypertension is not controlled.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Lovima if you are taking any other medicines or herbal supplements.
• Do not use Lovima after the expiry date stated on the carton label and blister foil.
• Dispose of Lovima properly to avoid causing environmental risk to fish. Consult your pharmacist for proper disposal methods.
• Please read the enclosed leaflet carefully before use and consult your pharmacist, doctor, or family planning nurse if you have any concerns or questions.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 women):

• Mood changes
• Depressed mood
• Decreased sexual drive (libido)
• Headache
• Nausea
• Acne
• Breast pain
• Weight gain

Uncommon side effects (affecting up to 1 in 100 women):

• Vaginal infection
• Intolerance to wearing contact lenses
• Vomiting
• Hair loss
• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Ovarian cysts
• Tiredness

Rare side effects (affecting up to 1 in 1,000 women):

• Rash
• Hives (urticaria)
• Skin inflammation (tender, red-blue skin lumps, also known as erythema nodosum)

Serious side effects (seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms):

• Swollen face, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe pain or swelling in either of the legs
• Unexplained pains in the chest
• Breathlessness
• An unusual cough, especially if blood is coughed up
• Sudden severe stomach-ache

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual experiences may vary. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms while taking Lovima, consult your healthcare professional.