Using Lovima: FAQs

Less than 12 hours late: The missed tablet should be taken as soon as it is remembered, and the next tablet taken at the usual time - this may mean taking 2 tablets in 1 day. She is still protected from pregnancy.

More than 12 hours late: If the patient is more than 12 hours late, she may not be completely protected against pregnancy - the more consecutive tablets missed, the higher the risk of pregnancy. See the SmPC and the pharmacy training guide for advice on what to do if the woman is more than 12 hours late.

Advise women during the initial consultation that if they experience vomiting within 3-4 hours after taking the tablet, Lovima may not have been absorbed sufficiently to provide contraceptive protection and they should follow the advice as if the tablet has been missed.

If she has severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhoea she should also use an additional method of contraception for the first 7 days of normal tablet taking. Information on what to do if a woman vomits or has diarrhoea is available in the patient information leaflet.

There may be times when a woman's first-choice contraception is not available or not appropriate when she presents to you. For example, she may wish to use a LARC, but may need contraception before she is able to see a doctor to obtain her LARC. In this instance, Lovima could be used as a bridging option until she can begin her preferred contraception.⁵

For a first supply of Lovima from a pharmacy, up to 3 months' supply (84 tablets) can be provided. This ensures that those starting treatment with Lovima do not receive Lovima for prolonged periods without a follow-up consultation.

For a repeat supply, up to 12 months (4 x 84 tablets) could be considered in women over 18 years.

Supply to women under 18 years should be limited to 3 months to ensure a regular opportunity to assess safeguarding, compliance and counselling on sexual health.

Changing from a COC - start taking Lovima on the day after the last active tablet from the present pill pack.

Changing from another POP - start taking Lovima without a break, on any day of changing from another POP.

See the Pharmacist training guide for more information on switching from other contraceptives and advice on use after EHC, birth, miscarriage or abortion.