Drug updated on 4/17/2024
| Dosage Form | Implant (subdermal: 68 mg) |
| Drug Class | Progestin |
| Ongoing and Completed Studies | ClinicalTrials.gov |
Indication
- Indicated for use by women to prevent pregnancy.
Summary
- Etonogestrel (Neplanon) is indicated for use by women to prevent pregnancy and is among the most effective reversible contraceptives, with studies showcasing a very high level of prevention against pregnancy.
- Four systematic reviews/meta-analyses provided information on the safety, effectiveness, and comparison with other contraceptives of Etonogestrel (Neplanon).
- The safety profile of Etonogestrel (Neplanon) shows no clinically significant effects on lipid metabolism or liver function, making it suitable for a wide range of users. However, abnormal menstruation was frequently noted as a side effect, leading to early discontinuation.
- Compared to Levonorgestrel devices, including implants and Intrauterine Systems (IUS), Etonogestrel (Neplanon) demonstrates comparable effectiveness but differs in side effect profiles and usage considerations. It can potentially be used up to 5 years, which suggests an advantage in long-term contraceptive strategies.
- Continuation rates are lower after one year compared to LNG-IUS and Copper-IUDs, possibly due to the side effect of abnormal menstruation. Despite this drawback, Etonogestrel (Neplanon) can be safely administered simultaneously with mifepristone for medical abortions without affecting efficacy, unlike certain long-acting reversible contraceptives that may pose concerns regarding timing post-abortion.
- Population types such as individuals with chronic diseases find suitability in using Etonogestrel (Neplanon) because of minimal metabolic effects, while those suffering from psychiatric disorders require careful consideration due to reported instances of self-removal or device damage. Young girls, especially post-partum/post-abortion cases, also benefit from this discreetly effective contraceptive choice, offering an alternative to IUDs.
Product Monograph / Prescribing Information
| Document Title | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Nexplanon (etonogestrel) Prescribing Information. | 2023 | Organon & Co., Jersey City, NJ |
Systematic Reviews / Meta-Analyses
| Document Title | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative insertion site of Nexplanon: description of a case report and systematic review of the literature. | 2022 | Journal of Clinical Medicine |
| Safety and benefits of contraceptives implants: a systematic review. | 2021 | Pharmaceuticals |
| A systematic review on clinical effectiveness, side-effect profile and meta-analysis on continuation rate of etonogestrel contraceptive implant. | 2021 | Reproductive Health |
| Long-acting reversible contraception immediately after medical abortion: systematic review with meta-analyses. | 2020 | Human Reproduction Update |
Clinical Practice Guidelines
| Document Title | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|
| FSRH Guideline (February 2021) Progestogen-only Implant. | 2021 | BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health |