ECP Tablet Uses

ECP tablet is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or after failure of another birth control method. It is an Emergency Contraceptive Pill that belongs to the class of progestins. ECP tablet contains synthetic hormones that are used for contraception. Following are some common and off-label uses of ECP Tablets:

Common Uses of ECP Tablet

1. Emergency Contraception: ECP tablets are widely used as an emergency contraceptive method commonly known as the “morning-after pill.” When taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, ECP tablets help prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, interfering with fertilization, or preventing implantation of a fertilized egg.
2. Contraception: ECP tablets are also used as a progestin-only contraceptive method, often referred to as the “mini-pill.” It is taken daily to provide contraception by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to inhibit sperm penetration, and altering the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation.
3. Hormone Replacement Therapy: ECP tablets, in combination with estrogen, are sometimes used as a component of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal women. It helps alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
4. Treatment of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: ECP tablet is used to manage and control abnormal uterine bleeding, including heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. It is available in the form of intrauterine devices (IUDs) that release a controlled amount of ECP into the uterus over an extended period.
5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): ECP tablets can be used as part of the treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It helps regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and manage symptoms associated with PCOS, such as acne and hirsutism (excessive hair growth).

Off-label Uses of ECP Tablet

1. Menstrual Suppression: ECP tablets may be used off-label to suppress menstruation in certain situations. It can be helpful to individuals who experience heavy or painful menstrual bleeding, certain medical conditions that are exacerbated by menstruation, or desire to avoid menstruation for personal reasons.
2. Treatment of Endometriosis: ECP tablets may be used off-label as part of the treatment regimen for endometriosis, a condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it, leading to pain and other symptoms. ECP can help suppress the growth of endometrial tissue and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with endometriosis.
3. Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): While ECP tablet is sometimes used as part of the treatment for PCOS, its use in managing specific symptoms, such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth) or acne, is considered off-label. ECP tablets help regulate hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS, which may improve these symptoms.
4. Prevention of Menstrual Migraines: Some individuals who experience migraines specifically associated with their menstrual cycle may find relief by taking ECP tablets to suppress menstruation or reduce hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle.

ECP is one of the leading brands of Levonorgestrel, manufactured and marketed by Social Marketing Pakistan (Guarantee) Ltd.

The following are some alternative brands of ECP Tablet and their manufacturers.

1. Emkit : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
2. Mekit : Mediate Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
3. Mirena IUS : Bayer Schering Pharma.
4. Emergency Pills : Hansel Pharmaceutical (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
5. Postinor : Medipex Science Office, Pakistan.

Presently, ECP is available in Tablet Form with the following strength.

ECP Tablet : 0.75mg strength.

ECP has a few contraindications, which are specific situations or conditions in which the use of an ECP Tablet is not recommended due to potential risks.

• Known or Suspected Pregnancy: ECP should not be used if you are already pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant. It is not intended for terminating an existing pregnancy.
• Hypersensitivity or Allergy: ECP should not be used if you have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to ECP or any of the components in the formulation. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe Liver Disease: ECP is metabolized in the liver, and individuals with severe liver disease may have impaired liver function. ECP is generally not recommended in these cases due to the potential for increased drug levels and associated risks.
• Undiagnosed Vaginal Bleeding: If you have unexplained vaginal bleeding, ECP should not be used until the cause of the bleeding has been evaluated by a healthcare professional. ECP may mask underlying conditions that need medical attention.
• Breast Cancer: ECP is generally not recommended for individuals with current or past breast cancer. It’s important to discuss your medical history, including any history of breast cancer, with your healthcare professional before using ECP.

ECP Dose for Emergency Contraception (Morning-After Pill):

• Two Tablets of 0.75mg, taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure.
• It is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) but can still be used up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse.

ECP Dose forContraception (Progestin-Only Pill):

• ECP as a progestin-only contraceptive, commonly referred to as the “mini-pill,” is taken daily without any hormone-free intervals. The recommended dose is typically 0.03 mg (30 mcg) of levonorgestrel (ECP) taken at the same time each day. It’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the product packaging.

ECP Dose for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):

• The dose and duration of use will be determined by your healthcare professional based on individual needs and medical history.

ECP works by inhibiting ovulation. It suppresses the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which leads to a decrease in the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and LH from the pituitary gland. Without the surge of LH, ovulation does not occur.

ECP also makes changes in the cervical mucus, making it thicker and less hospitable to sperm. This thicker mucus forms a barrier that makes it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.

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