Global InformationYuzpe regimen information
The Yuzpe regimen is a method of emergency contraception that uses a combination of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, specifically 1 mg of norgestrel (or 0.50mg of levonorgestrel) and 100 mcg of ethinyl estradiol ASAP and again in 12 hrs. It is less effective and less commonly used than a larger dose of levonorgestrel alone, a dose of ulipristal acetate, or insertion of a copper intrauterine device. It is designed to be used within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse because it works by inhibiting ovulation.[1]
Typically, the Yuzpe regimen uses several doses of combined oral contraceptive pills. It may be preferred in locations where other forms of emergency contraception are unavailable or accessing emergency contraception carries a societal stigma. In these places, people often self-administer combined oral contraceptives as emergency contraception.[1]
Subsequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) undertook an investigation into the use of progestogen-only tablets as an Emergency Hormonal Contraceptive (i.e. without any estrogen component).[2] This showed greater efficacy with reduced side effects and has therefore superseded the Yuzpe method. A single dose of 100 mg mifepristone is also more effective than the Yuzpe regime.[3]
- ^ a b Kaunitz, Andrew M. "Emergency contraception". UpToDate.
- ^ "Randomised controlled trial of levonorgestrel versus the Yuzpe regimen of combined oral contraceptives for emergency contraception. Task Force on Postovulatory Methods of Fertility Regulation". Lancet. 352 (9126): 428–33. 8 August 1998. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(98)05145-9. PMID 9708750. S2CID 25085328.
- ^ Ashok PW, Stalder C, Wagaarachchi PT, Flett GM, Melvin L, Templeton A (May 2002). "A randomised study comparing a low dose of mifepristone and the Yuzpe regimen for emergency contraception". BJOG. 109 (5): 553–60. doi:10.1111/j.1471-0528.2002.01371.x. PMID 12066946.