levonorgestrel

noun

le·​vo·​nor·​ges·​trel ˌlē-və-nȯr-ˈje-strəl 

: the levorotatory form of a synthetic progestin C₂₁H₂₈O₂ used especially in oral contraceptives

Examples of levonorgestrel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The fingernail-size microchip implant holds enough 30-microgram daily doses of levonorgestrel—a hormone already used in several contraceptives—to last for 16 years. —IEEE Spectrum, 9 July 2014

The device contains 52 mg of the hormone levonorgestrel and gradually releases it into the body. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025

They're composed of a synthetic hormone called levonorgestrel, writes the FDA, which has been used in birth control pills for more than 35 years. —Alyssa Goldberg, The Courier-Journal, 13 Nov. 2024

In theory, levonorgestrel emergency contraception like Plan B would still be covered under the existing mandate only if it’s prescribed. —Katie Camero, SELF, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

lev- + norgestrel, a progestin

First Known Use

1977, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

levonorgestrel

noun

le·​vo·​nor·​ges·​trel ˌlē-və-nȯr-ˈjes-trəl 

: a synthetic progestin C₂₁H₂₈O₂ that is used especially in birth control pills and contraceptive implants and that is the levorotatory form of norgestrel see mirena, plan b, seasonale, seasonique