IMPLANON
-
etonogestrel implant
Organon USA Inc.
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For Subdermal Use Only
Women should be informed that this product does not protect against infection from HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases.
IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) is an off-white, non-biodegradable, etonogestrel-containing single sterile rod implant for subdermal use. The implant is 4 cm in length with a diameter of 2 mm (see Figure 1). Each IMPLANON™ rod consists of an ethylene vinylacetate (EVA) copolymer core, containing 68 mg of the synthetic progestin etonogestrel (ENG), surrounded by an EVA copolymer skin. The release rate is 60–70 µg/day in week 5–6 and decreases to approximately 35–45 µg/day at the end of the first year, to approximately 30–40 µg/day at the end of the second year, and then to approximately 25–30 µg/day at the end of the third year. IMPLANON™ is a progestin-only contraceptive and does not contain estrogen. IMPLANON™ does not contain latex and is not radio-opaque.
Figure 1 |
(Not to scale) |
ENG [13-Ethyl-17-hydroxy-11-methylene-18,19-dinor-17α-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one], structurally derived from 19-nortestosterone, is the synthetic biologically active metabolite of the synthetic progestin desogestrel. It has a molecular weight of 324.46 and the following structural formula:
The contraceptive effect of IMPLANON™ is achieved by several mechanisms that include suppression of ovulation, increased viscosity of the cervical mucus, and alterations in the endometrium.
After subdermal insertion of IMPLANON™, ENG is released into the circulation and is approximately 100% bioavailable.
The mean peak serum concentrations in 3 pharmacokinetic studies ranged between 781 and 894 pg/mL and were reached within the first few weeks after insertion. The mean serum ENG concentration decreases gradually over time declining to 192 – 261 pg/mL at 12 months (n=41), 154 – 194 pg/mL at 24 months (n=35), and 156 – 177 pg/mL at 36 months (n=17). The pharmacokinetic profile of IMPLANON™ from one of 3 pharmacokinetic studies is shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2. Mean serum concentration-time profile of ENG during 2 years of IMPLANON™ use and after removal in 20 healthy women.
Figure 2
The apparent volume of distribution averages about 201 L. ENG is approximately 32% bound to sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and 66% bound to albumin in blood.
In vitro data shows that ENG is metabolized in liver microsomes by the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme. The biological activity of ENG metabolites is unknown.
The elimination half-life of ENG is approximately 25 hours. Excretion of ENG and its metabolites, either as free steroid or as conjugates, is mainly in urine and to a lesser extent in feces. After removal of IMPLANON™, ENG concentrations decreased below sensitivity of the assay by one week.
The effectiveness of IMPLANON™ in overweight women has not been defined because women who weighed more than 130% of their ideal body weight were not studied. However, serum concentrations of ENG are inversely related to body weight and decrease with time after insertion. It is therefore possible that with time IMPLANON™ may be less effective in overweight women, especially in the presence of other factors that decrease etonogestrel concentrations such as concomitant use of hepatic enzyme inducers.
No formal studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of race on the pharmacokinetics of IMPLANON™.
No formal studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of hepatic disease on the pharmacokinetics of IMPLANON™. However, ENG is metabolized by the liver, and therefore use in patients with active liver disease is contraindicated.
No formal studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of renal disease on the pharmacokinetics of IMPLANON™.
IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) is indicated for women for the prevention of pregnancy. IMPLANON™ is a long-acting (up to 3 years), reversible, contraceptive method. IMPLANON™ must be removed by the end of the third year and may be replaced by a new IMPLANON™ at the time of removal, if continued contraceptive protection is desired.
In clinical trials involving 923 subjects and 1,854 women-years of IMPLANON™ use, the total exposure in 28-day cycles by year was
The clinical trials excluded women who
Among women aged 18–35 years of age at entry, six pregnancies during 20,648 cycles of use were reported. Two pregnancies occurred in each of Years 1, 2 and 3. Each conception was likely to have occurred shortly before or within two weeks after IMPLANON™ removal. With these six pregnancies, the cumulative Pearl Index was 0.38 pregnancies per 100 women-years of use.
The efficacy of IMPLANON™ does not depend on patient self-administration. IMPLANON™ may be less effective in women who are overweight or who are taking medications that induce liver enzymes. See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations, Overweight Women, and PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions.
The following Table shows pregnancy rates in the first year of use for other contraceptive methods.
% of Women Experiencing an Unintended Pregnancy within the First Year of Use | % of Women Continuing Use at One Year* | ||
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Method (1) | Typical Use†
(2) | Perfect Use‡
(3) | (4) |
Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Treatment initiated within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse reduces the risk of pregnancy by at least 75%.§
Lactation Amenorrhea Method: LAM is a highly effective, temporary method of contraception.¶ Adapted from Hatcher et al., Contraceptive Technology, 17th Revised Edition, New York, NY: Irvington Publishers, 1998. |
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Chance# | 85 | 85 | |
SpermicidesÞ | 26 | 6 | 40 |
Periodic abstinence | 25 | 63 | |
Calendar | 9 | ||
Ovulation Method | 3 | ||
Sympto-Thermalß | 2 | ||
Post-Ovulation | 1 | ||
Capà | |||
Parous Women | 40 | 26 | 42 |
Nulliparous Women | 20 | 9 | 56 |
Sponge | |||
Parous Women | 40 | 20 | 42 |
Nulliparous Women | 20 | 9 | 56 |
Diaphragmà | 20 | 6 | 56 |
Withdrawal | 19 | 4 | |
Condomè | |||
Female (Reality) | 21 | 5 | 56 |
Male | 14 | 3 | 61 |
Pill | 5 | 71 | |
Progestin Only | 0.5 | ||
Combined | 0.1 | ||
IUD | |||
Progesterone T | 2.0 | 1.5 | 81 |
Copper T 380A | 0.8 | 0.6 | 78 |
LNg 20 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 81 |
Depo-Provera | 0.3 | 0.3 | 70 |
Norplant & Norplant-2 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 88 |
Female sterilization | 0.5 | 0.5 | 100 |
Male sterilization | 0.15 | 0.10 | 100 |
IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) should not be used in women who have
IMPLANON™ should be inserted subdermally so that it is palpable after insertion. Failure to insert IMPLANON™ properly may go unnoticed unless the implant is palpated immediately after insertion. Deep insertions may lead to difficult or impossible removals. Failure to remove IMPLANON™ may result in infertility, ectopic pregnancy, or inability to stop a drug-related adverse event. Undetected failure to insert IMPLANON™ may lead to an unintended pregnancy. See INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSERTION AND REMOVAL.
In clinical trials, 1.0% of patients had complications at implant insertion and 1.7% had complications at implant removal. Complications expected of a minor surgical procedure, such as pain, paresthesias, bleeding, hematoma, scarring or infection, have been reported. Occasionally in post-marketing use, implant insertions have failed because the implant fell out of the needle or remained in the needle during insertion. Implant removals may be difficult because the implant is deep, not palpable, encased in fibrous tissue, or has migrated. Implants have broken during difficult removals.
Deep insertions may result in the need for a surgical procedure in an operating room in order to remove IMPLANON™. Any of the possible complications of surgery may occur. When IMPLANON™ is inserted too deeply (intramuscular or in the fascia) this may cause neural or vascular damage. Too deep insertions have been associated with paraesthesia (due to neural damage) and migration of the implant (due to intramuscular or fascial insertion), and in rare cases with intravascular insertion. In post-marketing use there have been cases of failure to localize and remove the implant, probably due to deep insertion. There has been one case of an intravascular insertion reported post-marketing which led to inability to remove the implant.
If infection develops at the insertion site, start suitable treatment. If infection persists, remove IMPLANON™. Incomplete insertions or infections may lead to expulsion.
Be alert to the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy among patients using IMPLANON™ who become pregnant or complain of lower abdominal pain. Although ectopic pregnancies should be uncommon among patients using IMPLANON™, a pregnancy that occurs in a patient using IMPLANON™ may be more likely to be ectopic than a pregnancy occurring in a patient using no contraception.
Patients who use IMPLANON™ are likely to have changes in their vaginal bleeding patterns, which are often unpredictable. These may include changes in bleeding frequency or duration, or amenorrhea. Patients should be counseled regarding unpredictable bleeding irregularities so that they know what to expect. Abnormal bleeding should be evaluated as needed to exclude pathologic conditions or pregnancy.
In clinical trials, bleeding changes were the single most common reason for stopping treatment with IMPLANON™ (11.1%, or 105 of 942 patients using IMPLANON™). Most patients stopped treatment with IMPLANON™ because of irregular bleeding (10.8%), but some stopped because of amenorrhea (0.3%). In these studies, patients using IMPLANON™ had an average of 17.7 days of bleeding or spotting every 90 days (based on 3315 intervals of 90 days recorded by 780 patients). The percentages of patients having 0, 1–7, 8–21, or > 21 days of spotting or bleeding over a 90-day interval while using IMPLANON™ is shown in the following table.
Total Days of Spotting or Bleeding | Percentage of Patients | ||
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Treatment Days 91–180 (N=566) | Treatment Days 270–360 (N=554) | Treatment Days 640–730 (N=547) |
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0 days | 19% | 24% | 17% |
1–7 days | 15% | 13% | 12% |
8 to 21 days | 30% | 30% | 37% |
>21 days | 36% | 33% | 35% |
Bleeding patterns observed with use of IMPLANON™ for up to 2 years, and the proportion of 90-day intervals with these bleeding patterns, are summarized in the following table.
Bleeding Patterns | Definitions | % |
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% = Percentage of 90-day intervals with this pattern Based on 3,315 recording periods of 90 days duration in 780 women, excluding the first 90 days after implant insertion |
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Infrequent | Less than three bleeding and/or spotting episodes in 90 days (excluding amenorrhea) | 33.6 |
Amenorrhea | No bleeding and/or spotting in 90 days | 22.2 |
Prolonged | Any bleeding and/or spotting episode lasting more than 14 days in 90 days | 17.7 |
Frequent | More than 5 bleeding and/or spotting episodes in 90 days | 6.7 |
IMPLANON™ is not recommended for women who chronically take drugs that are potent hepatic enzyme inducers because etonogestrel levels may be substantially reduced in these women. See also PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions.
If follicular development occurs, atresia of the follicle is sometimes delayed, and the follicle may continue to grow beyond the size it would attain in a normal cycle. Generally, these enlarged follicles disappear spontaneously. Rarely, they can require surgery.
There have been postmarketing reports of serious thromboembolic events, including cases of pulmonary emboli (some fatal) and strokes, in patients using IMPLANON™. IMPLANON™ should be removed in the event of a thrombosis. Consider removal of IMPLANON™ in case of long-term immobilization due to surgery or illness. Women with a history of thromboembolic disorders should be made aware of the possibility of a recurrence. See also WARNINGS BASED ON EXPERIENCE WITH COMBINATION (PROGESTIN PLUS ESTROGEN) ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES.
Thromboembolism: Epidemiological investigations have associated the use of combination hormonal contraceptives with an increased incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE, deep venous thrombosis, retinal vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism).
The use of combination hormonal contraceptives is associated with increased risks of several serious conditions including myocardial infarction, thromboembolism and stroke, although the risk of serious morbidity or mortality is very small in healthy women without underlying risk factors. The risk increases significantly in the presence of other underlying risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemias, obesity, and diabetes.
Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from the use of combination hormonal contraceptives. This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in women over 35 years old who smoke. While this is believed to be an estrogen-related effect, it is not known whether a similar risk exists with progestin-only methods. However, patients should be advised not to smoke.
An increase in blood pressure has been reported in women taking combination hormonal contraceptives and this increase is more likely with continued use and with those users who are older. Studies have shown that the incidence of hypertension increases with increasing concentrations of progestins.
Women with a history of hypertension-related diseases or renal disease should be discouraged from using hormonal contraceptives. If women with hypertension elect to use hormonal contraceptives, they should be monitored closely. lf sustained hypertension develops during the use of hormonal contraceptives, or if a significant increase in blood pressure does not respond adequately to antihypertensive therapy, hormonal contraceptives should be discontinued.
For most women, elevated blood pressure will return to normal after stopping hormonal contraceptives, and there is no difference in the occurrence of hypertension between ever- and never-users.
Women with breast cancer should not use hormonal contraceptives because breast cancer may be hormonally sensitive.
The risk of having breast cancer diagnosed may be slightly increased among current and recent users of combination oral contraceptives. However, after combination oral contraceptive discontinuation this excess risk appears to decrease over time and within 10 years after cessation the increased risk disappears. Some studies report an increased risk with duration of use while other studies do not, and no consistent relationships have been found with dose or type of steroid. Some studies have found a small increase in risk for women who first used combination oral contraceptives before age 20. Most studies show a similar pattern of risk with combination oral contraceptive use regardless of a woman's reproductive history or her family breast cancer history.
In addition, breast cancers diagnosed in current or ever oral contraceptive users may be less clinically advanced than in never-users.
Some studies suggest that oral contraceptive use has been associated with an increase in the risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in some populations of women. However, there continues to be controversy about the extent to which such findings may be due to differences in sexual behavior and other factors.
In spite of many studies on the relationship between combination oral contraceptive use and breast and cervical cancers, a cause-and-effect relationship has not been established.
Benign hepatic adenomas have been associated with the use of combination oral contraceptives, although the incidence of benign tumors is rare in the United States. Indirect calculations have estimated the attributable risk to be in the range of 3.3 cases/100,000 for users, a risk that increases after four or more years of use.. Rupture of benign hepatic adenomas may cause death through intra-abdominal hemorrhage.
Studies from Britain have shown an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in long-term (>8 years) oral contraceptive users. However, these cancers are extremely rare in the U.S. and the attributable risk (the excess incidence) of liver cancers in oral contraceptive users approaches less than one per million users.
Earlier studies have reported an increased lifetime relative risk of gallbladder surgery in users of combination oral contraceptives and estrogens. More recent studies, however, have shown that the relative risk of developing gallbladder disease among combination oral contraceptive users may be minimal. The recent findings of minimal risk may be related to the use of combination oral contraceptive formulations containing lower doses of estrogens and progestins.
Women should be informed that this product does not protect against infection from HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases.
IMPORTANT: Pregnancy must be excluded before inserting IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant).
A complete medical evaluation, including history and physical examination and relevant laboratory tests, should be performed prior to IMPLANON™ insertion or reinsertion. It is good medical practice for patients using IMPLANON™ to have regular physical examinations. In case of undiagnosed, persistent, or recurrent abnormal vaginal bleeding, appropriate measures should be conducted to rule out malignancy. Women with a family history of breast cancer or who have breast nodules should be monitored with particular care.
Provide your patient with a copy of the Patient Labeling and ensure that she understands the information in the Patient Labeling before insertion and removal. A USER CARD and consent form are included in the packaging, Have the patient complete a consent form and retain it in your records. The USER CARD should be filled out and given to the patient after IMPLANON™ insertion so that she will have a record of the location of IMPLANON™ and when IMPLANON™ should be removed.
In clinical studies, mean weight gain in U.S. IMPLANON™ users was 2.8 pounds after one year and 3.7 pounds after two years. How much of the weight gain was related to IMPLANON™ is unknown. In studies, 2.3% of IMPLANON™ users reported weight gain as the reason for having IMPLANON™ removed.
IMPLANON™ may induce mild insulin resistance and small changes in glucose concentrations of unknown clinical significance. Women with diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance should be carefully observed while using IMPLANON™.
Women who are being treated for hyperlipidemias should be followed closely if they elect to use hormonal contraceptives. Some progestins may elevate LDL levels and may render the control of hyperlipidemias more difficult.
If jaundice develops in any patient using IMPLANON™, remove IMPLANON™. The hormone in IMPLANON™ may be poorly metabolized in patients with impaired liver function.
Women with a history of depression should be carefully observed. Consideration should be given to removing IMPLANON™ in patients who become significantly depressed.
Contact lens wearers who develop visual changes or changes in lens tolerance should be assessed by an ophthalmologist.
IMPLANON™ is not recommended for women who require chronic use of drugs that are potent inducers of hepatic enzymes because IMPLANON™ is likely to be less effective for these women.
Contraceptive effectiveness may be reduced when hormonal contraceptives are co- administered with some antibiotics, antifungals, anticonvulsants, and other drugs that increase the metabolism of contraceptive steroids. This could result in an unintended pregnancy or breakthrough bleeding. Examples include barbiturates, griseofulvin, rifampin, phenylbutazone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, felbamate, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, and modafinil. Patients should use an additional nonhormonal contraceptive method when taking medications that may decrease the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives.
Several of the anti-HIV protease inhibitors have been studied with co-administration of combination oral contraceptives; significant changes (increase and decrease) in the mean area under the curve (AUC) of the estrogen and progestin have been noted in some cases. The efficacy and safety of combination oral contraceptive products may be affected with co-administration of anti-HIV protease inhibitors; it is unknown whether this applies to IMPLANON™. Healthcare providers should refer to the labeling of the individual anti-HIV protease inhibitors for further drug-drug interaction information.
Herbal products containing St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may induce hepatic enzymes and p-glycoprotein transporter and may reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive steroids.
Inhibitors of hepatic enzymes such as itraconazole or ketoconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.
Certain endocrine tests may be affected by IMPLANON™ use:
a. Sex hormone-binding globulin concentrations may be decreased for the first six months after IMPLANON™ insertion followed by a gradual recovery.
b. Thyroxine concentrations may initially be slightly decreased followed by gradual recovery to baseline.
In a 24-month carcinogenicity study in rats with subdermal implants releasing 10 and 20 µg etonogestrel (ENG) per day (equal to approximately 1.8–3.6 times the systemic steady state exposure of women using IMPLANON™), no drug-related carcinogenic potential was observed. ENG was not genotoxic in the in vitro Ames/Salmonella reverse mutation assay, the chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells or in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test. Fertility returned after withdrawal from treatment.
IMPLANON™ is not indicated for use during pregnancy.
(See CONTRAINDICATIONS)
Teratology studies have been performed in rats and rabbits, respectively using oral administration up to 390 and 790 times the human IMPLANON™ dose (based upon body surface) and revealed no evidence of fetal harm due to ENG exposure.
Studies have revealed no increased risk of birth defects in women who have used combination oral contraceptives before pregnancy or during early pregnancy. There is no evidence that the risk associated with IMPLANON™ is different from that of combination oral contraceptives.
IMPLANON™ should be removed if maintaining a pregnancy.
Based on limited data, IMPLANON™ may be used during lactation after the 4th postpartum week. Use of IMPLANON™ before the 4th postpartum week has not been studied.
Small amounts of ENG are excreted in breast milk. During the first months after IMPLANON™ insertion, when maternal blood levels of ENG are highest, about 100 ng of ENG may be ingested by the child per day based on an average daily milk ingestion of 658 mL. Based on daily milk ingestion of 150 mL/kg, the mean daily infant ENG dose one month after insertion of IMPLANON™ is about 2.2% of the weight-adjusted maternal daily dose, or about 0.2% of the estimated absolute maternal daily dose. The health of breast-fed infants whose mothers began using IMPLANON™ during the 4th to 8th week postpartum (n=38) was evaluated in a comparative study with infants of mothers using a non-hormonal IUD (n=33). They were breast-fed for a mean duration of 14 months and followed up to 36 months of age. No significant effects and no differences between the groups were observed on the physical and psychomotor development of these infants. No differences between groups in the production or quality of breast milk were detected.
Healthcare professionals should discuss both hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive options, as steroids may not be the initial choice for these patients.
In clinical trials, pregnancies occurred as early as during the first week after removal of IMPLANON™. Therefore, a patient should re-start contraception immediately after removal of IMPLANON™ if she still needs to prevent pregnancy.
Steroid contraceptives may cause some degree of fluid retention. They should be prescribed with caution, and only with careful monitoring, in patients with conditions which might be aggravated by fluid retention. It is unknown if IMPLANON™ causes fluid retention.
Safety and efficacy of IMPLANON™ have been established in women of reproductive age. Safety and efficacy are expected to be the same for postpubertal adolescents. However, no clinical studies have been conducted in women less than 18 years of age. Use of this product before menarche is not indicated.
This product has not been studied in women over 65 years of age and is not indicated in this population.
See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS for additional important adverse events.
In clinical trials including 942 subjects, bleeding irregularities were the most common adverse event causing discontinuation of IMPLANON™. (see following Table)
Adverse Event | All Studies N=942 |
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Bleeding Irregularities* | 11.0% |
Emotional Lability† | 2.3% |
Weight Increase | 2.3% |
Headache | 1.6% |
Acne | 1.3% |
Depression‡ | 1.0% |
Adverse events that were reported by more than 5% of subjects in clinical trials appear in the following Table.
Adverse Event | All Studies N=942 |
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|
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Headache | 24.9% |
Vaginitis | 14.5% |
Weight increase | 13.7% |
Acne | 13.5% |
Breast pain | 12.8% |
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection | 12.6% |
Abdominal pain | 10.9% |
Pharyngitis | 10.5% |
Leukorrhoea | 9.6% |
Influenza-like symptoms | 7.6% |
Dizziness | 7.2% |
Dysmenorrhoea | 7.2% |
Back pain | 6.8% |
Emotional lability | 6.5% |
Nausea | 6.4% |
Pain | 5.6% |
Nervousness | 5.6% |
Sinusitis | 5.6% |
Depression | 5.5% |
Insertion site pain | 5.2% |
Other "Less Common Adverse Events" Reported in Less Than 5% of Subjects in Clinical Trials Include: Allergic Reaction, Alopecia, Anorexia, Anxiety, Appetite Increased, Arthralgia, Asthenia, Asthma, Breast Discharge, Breast Enlargement, Breast Fibroadenosis, Cervical Smear Test Positive, Constipation, Coughing, Crying Abnormal, Diarrhea, Dyspepsia, Dysuria, Edema, Edema Generalized, Fatigue, Fever, Flatulence, Gastritis, Hot Flushes, Hypertension, Hypoesthesia, Injection Site Reaction, Insomnia, Lactation Nonpuerperal, Libido Decreased, Migraine, Myalgia, Otitis Media, Ovarian Cyst, Pelvic Cramping, Premenstrual Tension, Pruritus, Pruritus Genital, Rash, Rhinitis, Sexual Function Abnormal, Skeletal Pain, Somnolence, Vaginal Discomfort, Vein Varicose, Vision Abnormal, Vomiting, and Weight Decrease.
Hypertrichosis has also been reported with use of progestin-only contraceptives.
Implant site complications were reported by 3.6% of subjects during any of the assessments in clinical trials. Pain was the most frequent implant site complication, reported during and/or after insertion, occurring in 2.9% of subjects. Additionally, hematoma, redness, and swelling were reported by 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.3% of patients, respectively. See also WARNINGS, COMPLICATONS OF INSERTION AND REMOVAL.
Insertion of multiple rods has been reported. Overdosage may result if more than one IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) rod is in place. In case of suspected overdose, IMPLANON™ should be removed. It is important to remove the IMPLANON™ rod or other contraceptive implant(s) before inserting a new IMPLANON™ rod.
All healthcare providers performing insertions and/or removals of IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) must receive instruction and training and where appropriate, supervision prior to inserting or removing IMPLANON™. To minimize the risk of neural or vascular damage, IMPLANON™ should be inserted at the inner side of the non-dominant upper arm about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) above the medial epicondyle of the humerus. IMPLANON™ should be inserted subdermally just under the skin to avoid the large blood vessels and nerves that lie deeper in the subcutaneous tissues in the sulcus between the triceps and biceps muscles. See INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSERTION AND REMOVAL. IMPLANON™ must be inserted by the expiration date stated on the packaging. Remove IMPLANON™ no later than three years after the date of insertion.
IMPORTANT: Rule out pregnancy before inserting IMPLANON™.
Timing of insertion depends on the patient's recent history, as follows:
If inserted as recommended above, back-up contraception is not necessary. If deviating from the recommended timing of insertion, rule out pregnancy and use back-up non-hormonal contraception for 7 days after IMPLANON™ insertion.
One IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) package consists of a single rod implant containing 68 mg etonogestrel that is 4 cm in length and 2 mm in diameter. IMPLANON™ is pre-loaded in the needle of a disposable applicator. The applicator consists of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene body with a stainless steel needle and a polypropylene shield. The sterile applicator containing IMPLANON™ is packed in a blister pack.
NDC 0052-0272-01
Store IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) at 25°C (77° F); excursions permitted to 15–30°C (59–86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Avoid storing IMPLANON™ in direct sunlight or at temperatures above 30°C (86° F).
Rx only
REFERENCES FURNISHED UPON REQUEST
The basis for successful use and subsequent removal of IMPLANON™ is a correct and carefully performed subdermal insertion of the single rod implant in accordance with the instructions. If the implant is placed improperly leading to deep location or migration, it will be more difficult to remove than a correctly placed subdermal implant. All healthcare professionals performing insertions and removals of IMPLANON™ must receive instruction and training, and where appropriate, supervision prior to inserting or removing IMPLANON.™
Information concerning the insertion and removal of IMPLANON™ will be sent upon request free of charge [Organon USA Inc., telephone: 1-877-IMPLANON (1-877-467-5266)].
Prior to inserting IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) carefully read the instructions for insertion and removal as well as the full prescribing information.
Place IMPLANON™ subdermally. Both you and your patient should be able to feel IMPLANON™ under her skin after placement.
Follow instructions carefully. All healthcare professionals must receive training before inserting or removing IMPLANON™. Proper IMPLANON™ insertion will facilitate removal. Correct timing of insertion is important. (See When to Insert IMPLANON™ in the DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.) Perform a history and physical examination, including a gynecologic examination, before IMPLANONTM insertion. Ensure that the patient understands the risks and benefits of IMPLANON™ before insertion. Provide the patient with a copy of the Patient labeling included in packaging. Have the patient review and complete a consent form and maintain it with the patient's chart.
Exclude pregnancy before insertion.
Insert IMPLANON™ under aseptic conditions.
The following equipment is needed for IMPLANON™ insertion:
An applicator and its parts are shown below (Figures 3a and 3b).
Figure 3a |
(Not to scale) |
Figure 3b |
Grooved tip of obturator (enlarged) |
The procedure used for IMPLANON™ insertion is opposite from that of an injection. The obturator keeps IMPLANON™ in place while the cannula is retracted. The obturator must remain fixed in place while the cannula with needle is retracted from the arm. Do not push the obturator.
Figure 4
Figure 5
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Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13
Before initiating the removal procedure, the healthcare professional may consult the USER CARD that is kept by the patient and/or the Patient Chart Label. The arm in which IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant) is located should be indicated on the USER CARD and the Patient Chart Label. IMPLANON™ should have been inserted in the medial aspect of the upper non-dominant arm. Prior to removing IMPLANON™ carefully read the instructions for removal. Find IMPLANON™ by palpation. If IMPLANON™ cannot be palpated, use either ultrasound with a high-frequency linear array transducer (10 MHz or greater) or magnetic resonance imaging to localize the implant. Consider conducting difficult removals with ultrasound guidance. Only remove a non-palpable implant once the location of IMPLANON™ has been established. If these imaging methods fail, call 1-877-IMPLANON (1-877- 467-5266) for further instructions.
There have been occasional reports of migration of the implant; usually this involves minor movement relative to the original position. This may complicate localization of the implant by palpation, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging, and removal may require a larger incision and more time.
Exploratory surgery without knowledge of the exact location of the implant is strongly discouraged. Removal of deeply inserted implants should be conducted with caution in order to prevent damage to deeper neural or vascular structures in the arm and be performed by healthcare providers familiar with the anatomy of the arm.
The patient's position for removal is similar to the position for insertion. Use aseptic technique.
The following equipment is needed for removal:
Figure a
Figure b
Figure c
Figure d
Figure e | Figure f |
Figure g | Figure h |
Figure i
IMPLANON™ (etonogestrel implant)
68 mg
For Subdermal Use Only
Rx only
IMPLANON™ does not protect against infection from HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases.
Read this leaflet carefully and have your healthcare provider answer all of your questions before you decide to use IMPLANON™.
What is the most important information I should know about IMPLANON™?
After you receive IMPLANON™, check that it is in place by pressing your fingertips over the skin in your arm where IMPLANON™ was placed. You should be able to feel the IMPLANON™ rod. If IMPLANON™ is not placed properly, it may not prevent pregnancy or it may be difficult or impossible to remove.
The most common side effect of IMPLANON™ is a change in your menstrual periods. Expect your menstrual period to be irregular and unpredictable throughout the time you are using IMPLANON™. You may have more bleeding, less bleeding, or no bleeding. The time between periods may vary, and in between periods you may have spotting.
What is IMPLANON™?
IMPLANON™ is a type of birth control for women. It is a flexible plastic rod the size of a matchstick that is put under the skin of your arm. IMPLANON™ contains a hormone called etonogestrel. You can use a single IMPLANON™ rod for up to three years. Because IMPLANON™ does not contain estrogen, your healthcare provider may recommend IMPLANON™ even if you cannot use estrogen.
What if I need birth control for more than three years?
You must have IMPLANON™ removed after three years. If you want to continue using IMPLANON™, your healthcare provider can put a new IMPLANON™ under your skin after taking out the old one.
What if I change my mind about birth control?
Your healthcare provider can remove IMPLANON™ at any time. If you want to become pregnant after IMPLANON™ removal, your ability to get pregnant may return quickly. If you don't want to get pregnant, you should start another birth control method right away.
How does IMPLANON™ work?
IMPLANON™ prevents pregnancy in several ways. The most important way is by stopping release of an egg from your ovary. IMPLANON™ also changes the mucus in your cervix and this change may keep sperm from reaching the egg. Also, IMPLANON™ changes the lining of your uterus.
How well does IMPLANON™ work?
If IMPLANON™ is inserted correctly, your chance of getting pregnant is very low (less than 1 pregnancy per 100 women who use IMPLANON for one year). It is not known if IMPLANON™ is as effective in very overweight women because studies did not include many overweight women.
The following chart shows the chance of getting pregnant for women who use different methods of birth control. Each box on the chart contains a list of birth control methods that are similar in effectiveness. The most effective methods are at the top of the chart. The box on the bottom of the chart shows the chance of getting pregnant for women who do not use birth control and are trying to get pregnant.
Fewer than 1 pregnancy per 100 women in one year | Fewer Pregnancies |
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10–20 pregnancies per 100 women in one year |
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85 or more pregnancies per 100 women in one year | More Pregnancies |
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Who should not use IMPLANON™?
Do not use IMPLANON™ if you
Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any of the conditions just listed. Your healthcare provider can suggest another method of birth control.
In addition, talk to your healthcare provider about using IMPLANON™ if you have or had
If you have any of these conditions, your healthcare provider can explain what to do.
How do I use IMPLANON™?
Your healthcare provider will insert (or remove) IMPLANON™ in a minor surgical procedure in his or her office. IMPLANON™ is inserted just under the skin on the inner side of your upper arm.
The timing of insertion is important. Depending on your history, your healthcare provider may ask you to
Both you and your healthcare provider should check that IMPLANON™ is in your arm by feeling the IMPLANON™ implant.
If you and your healthcare provider cannot feel IMPLANON™, use a non-hormonal birth control method such as condoms until your healthcare provider confirms that IMPLANON™ is in place. You may need special tests to check that IMPLANON™ is in place or to help find IMPLANON™ when it is time to take it out.
You will be asked to review and sign a consent form prior to inserting IMPLANON™. You will also get a USER CARD to keep at home with your health records. Your healthcare provider will fill out the insertion and removal dates. Keep track of the removal date and schedule an appointment for removal with your healthcare provider on or before the removal date.
The insertion site is covered with two bandages. Leave the top bandage on for 24 hours. Keep the smaller bandage dry, clean, and in place for three to five days.
Be sure to have checkups as advised by your healthcare provider.
What are the most common side effects I can expect while using IMPLANON™?
Talk with your healthcare provider if
Besides irregular bleeding, the most frequent side effects that caused women to stop using IMPLANON™ in studies were
The most common side effects reported by women using IMPLANON™ in clinical trials were
Rare side effects that have been reported include: extra hair on your face and body, trouble using contact lenses, and spotty darkening of the skin, especially on the face. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that concern you.
What are the possible risks of using IMPLANON™?
When should I call my healthcare provider?
Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the symptoms listed below. They may be signs of a serious problem:
What if I become pregnant while using IMPLANON™?
You should see your healthcare provider right away. It is important to remove IMPLANON™ and make sure that the pregnancy is not ectopic (occurring outside the womb). Based on experience with birth control pills, IMPLANON™ is not likely to cause birth defects.
Can I use IMPLANON™ when I am breast feeding?
Based on a small study, you may start IMPLANON™ if you are breastfeeding and if you delivered your baby more than four weeks ago. A small amount of the active substance of IMPLANON™ passes into the breast milk. The health of breast fed children whose mothers were using IMPLANON™ has been studied up to three years of age in a small number of children. No effects on the growth and development of the children were seen. If you are breast feeding and want to use IMPLANON™, talk with your healthcare provider.
What if I want to become pregnant or want to stop using IMPLANON™ for another reason before three years?
Your healthcare provider can remove IMPLANON™ at any time with a minor surgical procedure in the office. The information on your USER CARD may help your healthcare provider find IMPLANON™.
After removal, keep the removal site clean, dry, and bandaged for three to five days to lessen the chance of infection.
If you want to become pregnant, your ability to get pregnant usually returns quickly. Some women have become pregnant within days after removal of IMPLANON™. If you do not want to become pregnant, you should start another birth control method right away.
Additional Information
This leaflet contains important information about IMPLANON™. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider for information about IMPLANON™ that is written for healthcare providers. You may also call 1-877-IMPLANON (1-877-467-5266) or visit www.IMPLANON-USA.com
Manufactured for Organon USA Inc.
Roseland, NJ 07068
by N.V. Organon, Oss, The Netherlands
PATIENT CONSENT FORM
I understand the Patient Labeling for IMPLANON™. I have discussed IMPLANON™ with my healthcare provider who answered all my questions. I understand that there are benefits as well as risks from using IMPLANON™. I understand that there are other birth control methods and that each has its own benefits and risks.
I also understand that this Patient Consent Form is important. I understand that I need to sign this form to show that I am making an informed and careful decision to use IMPLANON™, and that I have read and understand the following points.
After learning about IMPLANON™, I choose to use IMPLANON™.
(Name of Healthcare Provider) |
(Patient Signature) | (Date) |
WITNESSED BY:
The patient above has signed this consent in my presence after I counseled her and answered her questions.
(Health-Care Provider Signature) | (Date) |
I have provided an accurate translation of this information to the patient whose signature appears above. She has stated that she understands the information and has had an opportunity to have her questions answered.
(Signature of Translator) | (Date) |
IMPLANON
etonogestrel implant |
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