etonogestrel (implant) Health Article

Generic name(s):

etonogestrel (implant)

Brand name(s):

etonogestrel, Implanon

What is the most important information I should know about etonogestrel implant?

Do not use etonogestrel implant if you are pregnant or if you have recently had a baby. Do not use this medication if you have any of the following conditions: a history of stroke or blood clot, a history of breast cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease, or liver cancer. Using hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you smoke and are older than 35.

Before receiving the etonogestrel implant, tell your doctor if you have an ovarian cyst, heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, gallbladder disease, a seizure disorder, or if you are overweight.

Etonogestrel implant is inserted through a needle into the skin of your upper arm. The medicine is released slowly into the body from the implant. The implant can remain in place to provide continuous contraception for up to 3 years.

You will most likely have irregular and unpredictable periods while using the etonogestrel implant. Tell your doctor if your periods are very heavy or long-lasting, or if you miss a period (you may be pregnant).

If you need to have any type of medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using etonogestrel implant.

The etonogestrel implant must be removed by the end of the third year after it was inserted and may be replaced at that time with a new implant. If you choose not to replace the implant, your ability to get pregnant will return quickly. Start using another form of birth control right away if you wish to avoid an unintended pregnancy.

What is etonogestrel implant?

Etonogestrel implant contains a hormone that prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). This medication also causes changes in your cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.

Etonogestrel implant is used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. The medicine is contained in a small plastic rod that is implanted into the skin of your upper arm. The medicine is released slowly into the body. The rod can remain in place and provide continuous contraception for up to 3 years.

Etonogestrel implant may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving the etonogestrel implant?

Do not use an etonogestrel implant if you are pregnant. If you have recently had a baby, wait at least 3 weeks (4 weeks if breast-feeding) before receiving an etonogestrel implant. Do not receive the implant if you are allergic to etonogestrel, or if you have:

• a history of stroke or blood clot;

• a history of breast cancer;

• abnormal vaginal bleeding; or

• liver disease or liver cancer.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions. You may need special tests to safely use an etonogestrel implant.

• an ovarian cyst;

• high blood pressure;

• heart disease or congestive heart failure;

• high cholesterol or if you are overweight;

• a history of depression;

• gallbladder disease;

• diabetes; or

• seizures or epilepsy.

Do not use the implant if you are breast-feeding a baby younger than 4 weeks old.

The etonogestrel implant should not be used in girls younger than 18 years old.