Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
implant
- 68mg
Contraception
Insert 1 implant subdermally
No preceding hormonal contraceptive use in past month: Insert between Days 1 through 5
Switch from combination other contraceptive
- OCP: Within 7 days after last active pill
- Vaginal ring: During 7-day ring-free period etonogestrel/ethinylestradiol
- Transdermal patch: During 7-day patch-free period of a transdermal contraceptive system
Switch from progestin-only contraceptive
- Any day of the month when switching from pill; do not skip any days between last pill and insertion
- On the same day as contraceptive implant removal
- On the same day as removal of a progestin-containing IUD
- On the day when next contraceptive injection would be due
Administration
For detailed info regarding use following delivery/abortion/miscarriage, see manufacturer's package insert
May be used for up to 3 years and then requires replacement
Insertion procedure and technique differs between brands
Nexplanon: Radiopaque; may use X-ray, CT, ultrasound, or MRI to locate once implanted
Implanon: Nonradiopaque; may use ultrasound or MRI to locate once implanted
Confirm that the entire implant, which is 4 cm long, has been removed by measuring its length
When an implant is broken or bent, in situ, the release rate of etonogestrel may be slightly increased; important to remove in its entirety
Not recommended
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (15)
- brigatinib
brigatinib will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Brigatinib induces CYP3A4 in vitro. Coadministration of hormonal contraceptives with brigatinib can result in decreased concentrations and loss of efficacy. Brigatinib can cause fetal harm. Women should use an effective nonhormonal method of contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last brigatinib dose.
- carbamazepine
carbamazepine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- clarithromycin
clarithromycin will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- erythromycin base
erythromycin base will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- erythromycin ethylsuccinate
erythromycin ethylsuccinate will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- erythromycin lactobionate
erythromycin lactobionate will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- erythromycin stearate
erythromycin stearate will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- lesinurad
lesinurad decreases effects of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Use additional methods of nonhormonal contraception. Do not rely on hormonal contraception alone when taking lesinurad.
- lumacaftor/ivacaftor
lumacaftor/ivacaftor will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration unless benefit outweighs risk. When coadministered, hormonal contraceptives are not a reliable method of effective birth control. Concomitant use may increase incidence of menstruation associated adverse effects (amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia).
- mavacamten
mavacamten will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Progestin and ethinyl estradiol are CYP3A4 substrates. Mavacamten may decrease systemic exposures of ethinyl estradiol and progestin, which may lead to contraceptive failure or an increase in breakthrough bleeding. Advise patients to use a contraceptive method that is not affected by CYP450 enzyme induction (eg, intrauterine system) or add nonhormonal contraception (eg, condoms) during coadministration and for 4 months after last mavacamten dose.
- omaveloxolone
omaveloxolone will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Omaveloxolone may reduce efficacy of hormonal contraceptives (eg, pill, patch, ring), implants, and progestin-only pills owing to weak CYP3A4 induction.
- rifabutin
rifabutin will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- rifampin
rifampin will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- St John's Wort
St John's Wort will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- sugammadex sodium
sugammadex sodium decreases effects of etonogestrel by receptor binding competition. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. In vitro binding studies showed that sugammadex may bind to progestogen, thereby decreasing progestogen exposure. Therefore, a sugammadex bolus dose is considered to be equivalent to missing dose(s) of hormonal contraceptives containing an estrogen or progestogen. If an oral contraceptive is taken on the same day of sugammadex, or the patient has a transdermal or implant hormonal contraceptive, the patient must use an additional, nonhormonal contraceptive method or back-up method of contraception (eg, condoms and spermicides) for the next 7 days.
Monitor Closely (68)
- albiglutide
etonogestrel decreases effects of albiglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Etonogestrel may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- ambrisentan
ambrisentan will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amobarbital
amobarbital will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- aprepitant
aprepitant will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- armodafinil
armodafinil will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- artemether/lumefantrine
artemether/lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- atazanavir
atazanavir will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- bosentan
bosentan will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- butabarbital
butabarbital will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- butalbital
butalbital will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clobazam
clobazam will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Clobazam is a weak CYP3A4 inducer; effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives may be diminished when given concurrently with clobazam. Additional non-hormonal forms of contraception are recommended.
- conivaptan
conivaptan will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cyclosporine
cyclosporine will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- darifenacin
darifenacin will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- darunavir
darunavir will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dasatinib
dasatinib will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- deferasirox
deferasirox will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- DHEA, herbal
DHEA, herbal will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dronedarone
dronedarone will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- efavirenz
efavirenz will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- etravirine
etravirine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- exenatide injectable solution
etonogestrel decreases effects of exenatide injectable solution by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- exenatide injectable suspension
etonogestrel decreases effects of exenatide injectable suspension by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- fluconazole
fluconazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fosamprenavir
fosamprenavir will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fosaprepitant
fosaprepitant will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fosphenytoin
fosphenytoin will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- grapefruit
grapefruit will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- griseofulvin
griseofulvin will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- hydrocortisone
hydrocortisone will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- indinavir
indinavir will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- insulin degludec
etonogestrel decreases effects of insulin degludec by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Progestins may impair glucose tolerance.
- insulin degludec/insulin aspart
etonogestrel decreases effects of insulin degludec/insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Progestins may impair glucose tolerance.
- insulin inhaled
etonogestrel decreases effects of insulin inhaled by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Progestins may impair glucose tolerance.
- isoniazid
isoniazid will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- itraconazole
itraconazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ketoconazole
ketoconazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lamotrigine
etonogestrel will decrease the level or effect of lamotrigine by increasing hepatic clearance. Use Caution/Monitor. Combination oral contraceptives have been shown to significantly decrease plasma concentrations of lamotrigine, likely due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation.
- lapatinib
lapatinib will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- letermovir
letermovir increases levels of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- levoketoconazole
levoketoconazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- liraglutide
etonogestrel decreases effects of liraglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Etonogestrel may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- lumefantrine
lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- maraviroc
etonogestrel increases levels of maraviroc by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Potential for increased toxicity. .
- marijuana
marijuana will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metformin
etonogestrel decreases effects of metformin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metronidazole
metronidazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- miconazole vaginal
miconazole vaginal will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nelfinavir
nelfinavir will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nevirapine
nevirapine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nifedipine
nifedipine will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nilotinib
nilotinib will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oxcarbazepine
oxcarbazepine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pentobarbital
pentobarbital will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- phenobarbital
phenobarbital will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- phenytoin
phenytoin will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- posaconazole
posaconazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- primidone
primidone will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- quinupristin/dalfopristin
quinupristin/dalfopristin will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ribociclib
ribociclib will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rifapentine
rifapentine will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ritonavir
ritonavir will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rufinamide
rufinamide will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- secobarbital
secobarbital will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- topiramate
topiramate will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- verapamil
verapamil will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- voriconazole
voriconazole will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- zafirlukast
zafirlukast will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (2)
- eslicarbazepine acetate
eslicarbazepine acetate will decrease the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nefazodone
nefazodone will increase the level or effect of etonogestrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
Adverse Effects
>10%
Oligomenorrhea (34%)
Headache (25%)
Vaginitis (24.5%)
Amenorrhea (22%)
Menorrhagia (18%)
Weight gain (14%)
Acne (13.5%)
Breast pain (13%)
Upper resp tract infection (13%)
Pharyngitis (11%)
Leucorrhea (10.5%)
1-10%
Back pain (7%)
Depression (6%)
Dizziness (7%)
Dysmenorrhea (7%)
Emotional lability (7%)
Flu-like symptoms (8%)
Insertion-site pain (9%)
Nausea (6%)
Nervousness (6%)
Pain (6%)
Postmarketing Reports
Gastrointestinal disorders: Constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, vomiting
General disorders and administration site conditions: Edema, fatigue, implant site reaction, pyrexia
Immune system disorders: Anaphylactic reactions
Infections and infestations: rhinitis, urinary tract infection
Investigations: Clinically relevant rise in blood pressure, weight decreased
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Increased appetite
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Arthralgia, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia
Nervous system disorders: Convulsions, migraine, somnolence
Pregnancy, puerperium and perinatal conditions: Ectopic pregnancy
Psychiatric disorders: Anxiety, insomnia, libido decreased
Renal and urinary disorders: Dysuria
Reproductive system and breast disorders: Breast discharge, breast enlargement, ovarian cyst, pruritus genital, vulvovaginal discomfort
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Angioedema, aggravation of angioedema and/or aggravation of hereditary angioedema, alopecia, chloasma, hypertrichosis, pruritus, rash, seborrhea, urticaria
Vascular disorders: Hot flush; chest pain and/or respiratory disorders (such as dyspnea, cough, or hemoptysis when implants found within pulmonary artery)
Warnings
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Known or suspected breast cancer, personal history of breast cancer, or other progestin-sensitive cancer, now or in the past
Liver tumors, benign or malignant, or active liver disease
Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
Hypersensitivity to etonogestrel or component of the formulation
Current/history of thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders
Cautions
Caution in family history of DVT/PE, current/history of depression, endometriosis, DM, HTN, bone mineral density changes, renal/hepatic impairment, bone metabolic disease, SLE; conditions exacerbated by fluid retention (eg, migraine, asthma, epilepsy)
Women with family history of breast cancer or who develop breast nodules should be carefully monitored
Due to risk of thromboembolism associated with pregnancy and immediately following delivery, drug should not be used prior to 21 days postpartum; women with history of thromboembolic disorders should be made aware of possibility of recurrence
Discontinue if the following develop jaundice, visual problems (may cause contact lens intolerance), any signs of VTE, migraine with unusual severity, severe depression, increased risk of thromboembolic complications after surgery
Contact lens wearers who develop visual changes or changes in lens tolerance should be assessed by an ophthalmologist
Evaluate for retinal vein thrombosis immediately if there is unexplained loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, papilledema, or retinal vascular lesions
Discontinue 4 week before major surgery or prolonged immobilization
Use caution in patients on warfarin, oral anticoagulants (increase in anticoagulant dose may be warranted)
Some studies link OCP use with increased risk of breast cancer, whereas other studies have not shown a change in risk; woman's risk depends on conditions where naturally high hormone levels persist for long periods of time including early onset menstruation before age 12, late onset menopause, after age 55, first child after age 30, nulliparity
Increased risk of cervical cancer with OCP use, however HPV remains as main risk factor for this cancer; evidence suggests long-term use of OCPs, 5 or more years, may be associated with increased risk
Hormonal contraceptives may cause some degree of fluid retention; prescribe with caution, and only with careful monitoring, in patients with conditions which might be aggravated by fluid retention; unknown if drug causes fluid retention
Disturbances of liver function may necessitate discontinuation of hormonal contraceptive use until markers of liver function return to normal; remove treatment if jaundice develops; progestin may be poorly metabolized in women with liver impairment; increased risk of liver cancer with OCP use; risk increases with longer duration of OCP use
A pregnancy that occurs in a woman may be more likely to be ectopic than a pregnancy occurring in a woman using no contraception; be alert to possibility of ectopic pregnancy in women receiving therapy who become pregnant or complain of lower abdominal pain
After starting therapy, women are likely to have a change from their normal menstrual bleeding pattern; these may include changes in bleeding frequency (absent, less, more frequent or continuous), intensity (reduced or increased) or duration; evaluate abnormal bleeding as needed to exclude pathologic conditions or pregnancy
Implant should be removed in the event of a thrombosis
Discourage women with history of hypertension-related diseases or renal disease from using hormonal contraception; women with well-controlled hypertension, use can be considered; women with hypertension receiving therapy should be closely monitored; if sustained hypertension develops during therapy, or if a significant increase in blood pressure does not respond adequately to antihypertensive therapy, remove implant
Patient receiving therapy should have a yearly visit with healthcare provider for a blood pressure check and for other indicated health care
Implant should be removed if blood pressure rises significantly and becomes uncontrolled
When implant broken or bent, may increase release rate of etonogestrel; when implant removed, remove it in its entirety
Small increased relative risk of developing gallbladder disease among combination hormonal contraceptive users reported; not known whether a similar risk exists with progestin-only methods
Monitor prediabetic and diabetic women receiving therapy; may induce mild insulin resistance and small changes in glucose concentrations of unknown clinical significance; carefully monitor prediabetic and diabetic women receiving therapy
Follow closely women being treated for hyperlipidemia, if they elect to receive treatment; some womens-health-reproduction#progestins may elevate LDL levels and may render control of hyperlipidemia more difficult
If follicular development occurs, atresia of follicle is sometimes delayed, and follicle may continue to grow beyond size it would attain in normal cycle; generally, enlarged follicles disappear spontaneously; on rare occasion, surgery may be required
Sex hormone-binding globulin concentrations may be decreased for first six months after implant insertion followed by gradual recovery; thyroxine concentrations may initially be slightly decreased followed by gradual recovery to baseline
Re-start contraception immediately after removal of implant if continued contraceptive protection is desired
Complications of Insertion
- Implant removal may be difficult or impossible if implant not inserted correctly, inserted too deeply, not palpable, encased in fibrous tissue, or has migrated
- Exploratory surgery without knowledge of exact location of implant is strongly discouraged
- Migration of implant within arm from insertion site, which may be related to deep insertion, reported; in cases where implant has migrated to pulmonary artery, chest pain and/or respiratory disorders (such as dyspnea, cough, or hemoptysis) reportred; others were asymptomatic; endovascular or surgical procedures may be needed for removal
- If at any time implant cannot be palpated, it should be localized; removal is recommended
- If inserted deeply (intramuscular or in fascia), neural or vascular injury may occur; to help reduce risk of neural or vascular injury insert product subdermally just under skin at inner side of non-dominant upper arm overlying the triceps muscle about 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) from medial epicondyle of humerus and 3-5 cm (1.25-2 inches) posterior to sulcus (groove) between biceps and triceps muscles; this location avoids large blood vessels and nerves lying within and surrounding the sulcus
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
Contraindicated during pregnancy because there is no need for pregnancy prevention in woman who is already pregnant; epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not shown an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb-reduction defects) following maternal exposure to low dose CHCs prior to conception or during early pregnancy
Lactation
Small amounts of contraceptive steroids and/or metabolites, including etonogestrel are present in human milk; no significant adverse effects observed in production or quality of breast milk, or on physical and psychomotor development of breastfed infants
Hormonal contraceptives, including etonogestrel, can reduce milk production in breastfeeding mothers; this is less likely to occur once breastfeeding is well-established; however, it can occur at any time in some women; when possible, advise nursing mother about both hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive options, as steroids may not be initial choice for these patients; developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with mother’s clinical need for hormonal contraceptive and any potential adverse effects on breastfed child from hormonal contraceptive or from underlying maternal condition
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Progestin; inhibits secretion of gonadotropins from pituitary gland; prevents follicular maturation and ovulation, increases viscosity of cervical mucous, and stimulates growth of mammary tissues
Absorption
Bioavailability: 100%
Release Rate
- Week 5-6: 60-70 mcg/day
- After 1 yr: 35-45 mcg/day
- After 2 yr: 30-40 mcg/day
- After 3 yr: 25-30 mcg/day
Distribution
Protein Bound: 98% (32% SHBG; 66% albumin)
Vd: 201 L
Metabolism
Hepatic CYP3A4
Elimination
Half-Life: 25 hr
Excretion: Urine (primarily), feces
Images
Patient Handout
etonogestrel subdermal
ETONOGESTREL - IMPLANT
(e-TOE-noe-JES-trel)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Implanon, Nexplanon
USES: This product is a small, thin plastic rod that is inserted under the skin to prevent pregnancy. The rod slowly releases etonogestrel into the body over a 3-year period. Etonogestrel is similar to a natural hormone made in your body. This product does not contain any estrogen.This medication may not work as well in women who are very overweight or those taking certain drugs. (See also Drug Interactions section.) Discuss your birth control options with your doctor.Using this medication does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia).
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist or health care provider before the rod is placed. Read and sign the Informed Consent provided by your doctor. You will also be given a User Card with the date and the place on your body where the rod was inserted. Keep the card and use it to remind yourself when to schedule an appointment to have the rod removed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Ask your doctor about the best time to schedule your appointment to have the rod placed. Your doctor may want you to have a pregnancy test first. The medication usually starts working right away when the rod is inserted during the first 5 days of your period. If your appointment is at another time in your menstrual cycle, you may need to use a non-hormonal form of birth control (such as condoms, diaphragm, spermicide) for the first 7 days after the rod is placed. Ask your doctor about whether you need back-up birth control.The rod will be inserted under the skin in your upper arm by a health care professional. Usually it will be placed in the arm that you do not write with. Be sure you can feel the rod underneath your skin after it has been placed. If at any time you cannot feel the rod underneath the skin or feel that the rod has been bent or broken, tell your doctor right away.There will be 2 bandages covering the area where the rod is placed. Leave the top bandage on for 24 hours. Keep the smaller bandage on as directed by your doctor, usually for 3 to 5 days. Keep the bandage clean and dry.The rod must be removed after 3 years and can be replaced if continued birth control is desired. The rod can be removed at any time by a trained health care professional if birth control is no longer desired or if there are side effects.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach cramping/bloating, dizziness, headache, breast tenderness, acne, hair loss, weight gain, and vaginal irritation/discharge may occur. Pain, bruising, numbness, infection, and scarring may occur at the site where the rod is placed. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Your periods may be early or late, shorter or longer, heavier or lighter than normal. You may also have some spotting between periods, especially during the first several months of use. If bleeding is prolonged (more than 8 days) or unusually heavy, contact your doctor. If you miss 2 periods in a row, contact your doctor for a pregnancy test.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.The rod must be removed after 3 years. This is usually a simple procedure done in your doctor's office. Rarely (for example, if the rod has been placed too deeply or can't be felt), the rod may require surgery to remove.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as new/worsening depression), lump in the breast, unwanted facial/body hair, severe stomach/abdominal/pelvic pain, unusual tiredness, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, coughing up blood.This medication may rarely cause serious (sometimes fatal) problems from blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke). Get medical help right away if you have: shortness of breath/rapid breathing, chest/jaw/left arm pain, unusual sweating, confusion, sudden dizziness/fainting, pain/swelling/warmth in the groin/calf, sudden/severe headaches, trouble speaking, weakness on one side of body, sudden vision changes.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using etonogestrel, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other progestins (such as norethindrone, desogestrel); or to any anesthetics or antiseptics that might be used in the procedure; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood clots (for example in the legs, eyes, lungs), blood clotting disorders (such as protein C or protein S deficiency), high blood pressure, abnormal breast exam, personal or family history of cancer (especially breast or cervical cancer), high cholesterol or triglyceride (blood fat) levels, depression, diabetes, gall bladder problems, severe headaches/migraine, heart problems (such as heart valve disease, irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack), history of yellowing eyes/skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or while using hormonal birth control (such as pills, patch), kidney disease, liver disease (including tumors), stroke, swelling (edema), unexplained vaginal bleeding.Do not use this medication if you smoke cigarettes/use tobacco and are over 35 years old. Smoking raises your risk of stroke, heart attack, blood clots, and high blood pressure from hormonal birth control (such as the pill, implant, patch, ring). The risk of these serious problems increases with age and with the number of cigarettes you smoke. Do not smoke or use tobacco.Tell your doctor at least 4 weeks beforehand if you will be having surgery or will be confined to a chair or bed for a long time (such as on a long plane flight). You may need to have this medication removed for a time or take special precautions.This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).This medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma). Sunlight may worsen this effect. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may develop vision problems or trouble wearing your contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor if these problems occur.This product must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. A certain serious pregnancy problem (ectopic pregnancy) may be more likely if you become pregnant while using this product.This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some drugs may cause hormonal birth control to work less well by decreasing the amount of birth control hormones in your body. This effect can result in pregnancy. Examples include griseofulvin, modafinil, rifamycins (such as rifampin, rifabutin), ritonavir, St. John's wort, drugs used to treat seizures (such as barbiturates, carbamazepine, felbamate, phenytoin, primidone, topiramate), HIV drugs (such as nelfinavir, nevirapine), among others.Tell your doctor when you start any new drug, and discuss if you should use additional reliable birth control. Also tell your doctor if you have any new spotting or breakthrough bleeding, because these may be signs that your birth control is not working well.This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (such as sex-hormone-binding globulin, thyroid), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this medication.
OVERDOSE: This implant may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has swallowed it and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Regular complete physical exams which include lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, breast exam, pelvic exam, Pap smear) should be done while you are using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions for examining your breasts, and report any lumps right away. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture until insertion. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised January 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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