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Therapeutic action
- Hormonal contraceptive, progestogen
Indications
- Long-acting contraception
Forms and strengths, route of administration
- Flexible rod containing 68 mg of etonogestrel, in a sterile disposable applicator, to be inserted subdermally into the inner side of the non-dominant arm, 6 to 8 cm above the elbow crease, under local anaesthesia and aseptic conditions
Dosage
- The implant may be inserted at any moment of the cycle if it is reasonably certain the woman is not pregnant, including when switching from another form of contraception.
- Use condoms for 7 days after insertion of the implant if it is inserted:
- more than 7 days after the start of menstruation;
- more than 28 days postpartum if not breastfeeding;
- more than 7 days after an abortion.
Duration
- As long as this method of contraception is desired and it is well tolerated, for max. 3 years after which it no longer provides contraception and must be changed.
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
- Do not administer to patients with breast cancer, severe or recent liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding, active thromboembolic disorders.
- May cause: menstrual irregularities, amenorrhoea, menometrorrhagia, breast tenderness, headache, weight gain, itching, acne, mood changes, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions.
- Enzyme-inducing drugs (rifampicin, rifabutin, efavirenz, nevirapine, lopinavir, ritonavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, griseofulvin, etc.) reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive.
- Pregnancy: CONTRA-INDICATED
- Breast-feeding: no contra-indication
Remarks
- Fertility returns rapidly after removal of the implant.
- For the conditions for insertion or removal the implant, follow manufacturer’s instructions.
Storage
– Below 25 °C