Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 9/6/2009

Question
I recently been using Alesse which contains both levonorgestrel and estradiol for about 2 years now. I was doing some research on birth control and how it works. I found out that the levonorgestrel only works for 5 years. I cannot find out why or any of my question. I was wondering what happens after the 5 years, why does it only work for that long? What kind of  birth control would you use instead? How long after the 5 years can you start to use levonorgestrel again?  do you have to take a break off birth control completly? if so how long? please help

Answer
Dear Kendra

I do not know where you got this information from but as far as I know it is untrue and is not stated on the Australian manufacturer's monograph on this drug. Could you get back to me with this information but at the moment the answers to your other questions do not need addressed by me. If you still want these answers please ask again but I still would like the info of where you found this.

Regards

Alan galbraith