Your doctor will advise you on the right dose of Utovlan to take and for how long. The usual dose prescribed is one 5mg tablet to be taken 3 times a day.
Your doctor would also advise you to take Utovlan at least 2 or 3 days before your next period is due, for it to work effectively in delaying your period.
Can you take Utovlan when your period has started?
Your doctor can prescribe Utovlan to stop heavy or prolonged periods but it will still take about 2 days to start working.
If you would like to delay your period, the most effective way of using Utovlan is to take it about 2 or 3 days before your next period is due.
How long can you take Utovlan for?
You can take Utovlan to delay your period on a short term basis, for up to 1 month.
If you would like to delay your period long term, speak to your doctor. They would advise you on more suitable long term methods to delay your periods.
When should I stop taking Utovlan?
You should stop taking Utovlan when you no longer want to delay your period. Your period should return 2 to 3 days after you stop taking Utovlan.
You should also stop taking Utovlan if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have:
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue, hands or feet
- an itchy, red and painful skin rash
- difficulty breathing
- a wheezing feeling
- a dizzy or faint feeling
- pain in your chest
Utovlan may increase your risk of developing blood clots which is a medical emergency.
Stop taking Utovlan and seek immediate medical attention if you have:
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain or discomfort
- pain or swelling in your leg (especially the calf area)
- palpitations (fast heartbeat)
- a numb or weak feeling in any part of your body
- severe headaches
- coughing up blood
- a dizzy or faint feeling
What happens when you stop taking Utovlan?
Your period should return in about 2 to 3 days after you stop taking Utovlan.
Can I take Utovlan if I am flying?
Yes. You can take Utovlan when flying unless your doctor advises against it because you have certain risk factors. Utovlan may increase your risk of blood clots, especially if you have other risk factors for blood clots (family history, high blood pressure or heart disease). You should always talk to your doctor before flying, if you are taking any medication.
So, if you are taking Utovlan and are about to fly, you can reduce your risk of developing blood clots by:
- drinking lots of water
- moving your feet and legs regularly when you are sitting
- taking a walk around the cabin when you can
- drinking less alcohol or caffeinated drinks as they can cause dehydration
- wearing compression stockings while travelling
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