← Search & browse all drugs
GENITO URINARY SYSTEM AND SEX HORMONES › SEX HORMONES AND MODULATORS OF THE GENITAL SYSTEM › HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › Progestogens
etonogestrel
G03AC08
Forms & Strengths
- Subdermal implant: 68 mg etonogestrel
Adult Dosing
- Contraception: One subdermal implant inserted sub-dermally in the inner side of the non-dominant upper arm, left in place for up to 3 years.
Pediatric Dosing
- Post-menarchal adolescents: One subdermal implant (68 mg), same as adult dosing.
Mechanism of Action
- Suppresses ovulation primarily by inhibiting the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Increases cervical mucus viscosity, inhibiting sperm penetration
- Alters the endometrium, inhibiting blastocyst implantation
Contraindications
- Known or suspected pregnancy
- Active venous thromboembolic disorders
- Known or suspected sex hormone-sensitive malignancies
- Active liver tumors or severe hepatic impairment
- Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding
- Hypersensitivity to etonogestrel or any component of the implant
Adverse Reactions
- Changes in menstrual bleeding pattern (amenorrhea, frequent, prolonged, or heavy bleeding)
- Headache
- Weight gain
- Acne
- Breast pain
- Emotional lability, depressed mood
- Abdominal pain
- Insertion site complications (pain, hematoma, infection)
Drug Interactions
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., barbiturates, bosentan, carbamazepine, felbamate, griseofulvin, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, primoxifen, rifampin, St. John's wort) may decrease contraceptive efficacy
- HIV protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors may significantly alter plasma concentrations of progestins
- Lamotrigine: Progestin-only contraceptives may decrease serum concentration of lamotrigine, increasing seizure risk
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use