ellaOne is an emergency contraceptive intended for use within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. It is considered the most effective oral emergency contraceptive pill currently available in the UK.

How it works

The active substance in ellaOne is a synthetic hormone modulator that interacts with progesterone receptors in the body.

• Mechanism of Action: It works by delaying or suppressing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). By postponing this process, it ensures that any sperm present in the reproductive tract are no longer viable by the time an egg is eventually released.

• Unique Efficacy: Unlike levonorgestrel-based pills (like Ezinelle), ellaOne has been shown to be effective even when the body is about to ovulate—the time of the cycle when the risk of pregnancy is highest.

• Crucial Note: ellaOne is not an "abortion pill." It does not terminate an existing pregnancy. If implantation has already occurred, the medication will not be effective.

Main ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Ulipristal Acetate 30mg

• Excipients: The tablet contains lactose monohydrate, povidone, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate.

• Allergy Warning: If you have a known intolerance to certain sugars, specifically lactose, please inform your pharmacist.

Side effects

Most women tolerate ellaOne well, though the hormonal shift can cause temporary symptoms:

• Very Common: Nausea (feeling sick), abdominal pain or discomfort, and headaches.

• Menstrual Changes: Your next period may be a few days early or late. You may also experience spotting or heavier bleeding than usual during your next cycle.

• Common: Dizziness, mood swings, muscle pain (myalgia), and breast tenderness.

Cautions and warnings

• Vomiting: If you vomit within 3 hours of taking ellaOne, the medication may not have been fully absorbed. You must contact your pharmacist or GP immediately, as a second dose will be required.

• Severe Asthma: ellaOne is not recommended for women with severe asthma that is treated with oral glucocorticoids.

• Drug Interactions: Certain medicines (for epilepsy, HIV, or tuberculosis) and herbal remedies like St John’s Wort can make ellaOne less effective.

• Hormonal Contraception: Taking ellaOne can temporarily reduce the effectiveness of regular hormonal contraceptives (like the daily Pill). If you take ellaOne, you should wait 5 days before restarting your regular hormonal contraception and use a barrier method (condoms) until your next period.

• Breastfeeding: It is advised not to breastfeed for one week after taking ellaOne. During this time, you should express and discard your breast milk to maintain supply.

• Existing Pregnancy: Do not take ellaOne if you are already pregnant or suspect you might be.