Fallback Solo is easy to use and designed for single-use dosing.
- Take one tablet as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.
- It should be taken within 72 hours, but the sooner, the better.
- It can be taken with or without food.
- If you vomit within 2 hours, contact your doctor to determine if another dose is needed.
- Continue or start regular contraception immediately after taking Fallback Solo.
It’s important not to use Fallback Solo multiple times within the same menstrual cycle, as it may disrupt your hormone levels and menstrual cycle.
Fallback Solo works primarily by preventing or delaying ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. If there is no egg present, sperm cannot fertilize anything, and pregnancy cannot occur. This is the most effective method of preventing pregnancy with levonorgestrel.
It may also work by changing the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to move through the cervix and reach an egg. Additionally, it can alter the lining of the uterus, making it less suitable for a fertilized egg to implant.
It is important to note that Fallback Solo will not work if fertilization and implantation have already occurred. It is not an abortion pill and should not be confused with medications that end an existing pregnancy.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Breast tenderness
- Menstrual changes, such as earlier or later period, or heavier/lighter bleeding
These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare, but may include:
- Severe lower abdominal pain, which could indicate an ectopic pregnancy
- Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing
If you experience any of these serious symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Regular periods usually resume within 3 weeks of taking Fallback Solo. If your period is more than 7 days late, you should take a pregnancy test.
- Not for regular use: Fallback Solo should only be used in emergencies, not as a substitute for regular birth control.
- Does not protect against STIs: It offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections.
- May cause menstrual irregularities: Your period may come earlier or later than expected.
- Not suitable if already pregnant: Fallback Solo will not affect an existing pregnancy.
- Not effective for everyone: Women who weigh over 165 pounds (75 kg) may find the pill less effective.
- Repeat use: Frequent use within the same cycle may lead to hormonal imbalance and is not recommended.
Always read the label carefully and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any doubts or pre-existing health conditions.
Some medications can lower the effectiveness of levonorgestrel, including:
- Rifampin and other antibiotics
- Carbamazepine, phenytoin, and other anti-seizure medications
- St. John’s Wort
- Some HIV medications
These drugs may increase the rate at which levonorgestrel is broken down in the body, making it less effective. If you are on these medications, consider discussing alternative emergency contraception options with a healthcare provider.
- Fallback Solo should only be used once per emergency.
- You should not take more than one dose per 72-hour period.
- If you engage in unprotected sex again after taking the pill, you will need another dose.
- For routine birth control, consider switching to regular methods like birth control pills, patches, IUDs, etc.
If you are unsure about how to use it or whether it is right for your situation, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Fallback Solo is available without a prescription in many areas, including most pharmacies and drugstores. However, some healthcare providers may choose to offer it by prescription to ensure proper usage and screening.
Even though a prescription is not required, it is still advisable to talk to a pharmacist or doctor to understand how and when to take it, and to discuss other contraceptive options that may be more effective and suitable for long-term use.