I pill vs unwanted 72
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I-Pill vs Unwanted 72 levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive comparison
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Both I-Pill and Unwanted 72 are the same drug — levonorgestrel 1.5 mg — just different brand names sold in India. Here is a complete comparison:
I-Pill vs Unwanted 72 — Are They Different?
Short answer: No. They are identical in drug, dose, and mechanism. The only differences are the manufacturer and price.
| Feature | I-Pill | Unwanted 72 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cipla Ltd | Mankind Pharma |
| Active ingredient | Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg | Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg |
| Dose | Single tablet | Single tablet |
| Formulation | Identical | Identical |
| Price (approx.) | ₹100–110 | ₹75–90 |
| Availability | OTC across India | OTC across India |
How Levonorgestrel Works (Both Brands)
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin. As emergency contraception it works by:
- Delaying or inhibiting ovulation — the primary mechanism; it prevents the LH surge
- Thickening cervical mucus — impedes sperm motility and transport
- Possibly altering the endometrium — though this is not the primary mechanism and is debated
It does not disrupt an already-implanted embryo; it is not an abortifacient.
Efficacy
- Prevents ~85% of expected pregnancies when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse
- Most effective when taken as soon as possible:
- Within 24 hours: ~95% effective
- Within 48 hours: ~85% effective
- Within 72 hours: ~58–75% effective
- Not effective after 72 hours (3 days) — do not use after this window
- Works best before ovulation; has little to no effect if taken after ovulation has already occurred
Important Caveats
Weight/BMI
Levonorgestrel-based EC (both brands) is less effective in women weighing >70–75 kg or BMI >25–30 kg/m². Studies show significantly reduced plasma levels and reduced efficacy in higher-weight women. In such cases, ulipristal acetate (ella) or a copper IUD are better options, though availability in India is limited.
Not a Regular Contraceptive
These pills are for emergency use only. Frequent use:
- Disrupts menstrual cycles
- Provides no protection against STIs
- Is less effective than regular contraceptive methods (pills, IUDs, implants)
Side Effects (Both Brands — Identical)
- Nausea, vomiting
- Irregular menstrual bleeding (next period may come early or late by up to 7 days)
- Breast tenderness
- Headache, dizziness
- Fatigue
If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking the pill, a replacement dose should be taken.
Which Should You Choose?
Since the drug, dose, and formulation are identical, choose based on availability and price. There is no pharmacological reason to prefer one over the other.
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Either brand available | Choose the cheaper/more available one |
| Weight >70–75 kg | Consult a doctor; consider copper IUD |
| >72 hours after intercourse | Neither is recommended; seek medical advice |
| Unprotected intercourse up to 5 days ago | Copper IUD is the most effective option |
Bottom Line
I-Pill and Unwanted 72 are bioequivalent — same molecule, same dose, same effect. The brand name distinction is purely commercial. Take either one as a single tablet as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, within the 72-hour window.
Source: Goldman-Cecil Medicine; Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology — Lippincott, p. 849–850
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