Implanon

Generic name: Etonogestrel Implant

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 doctor may recommend Implanon even if you cannot use estrogen.

What is the most important information I should know about Implanon?

If Implanon is not placed properly, it may not prevent pregnancy or it may be difficult or impossible to remove. 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 rod.

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.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of these symptoms:

Who should not take Implanon?

Do not use Implanon if you have experienced blood clots in your legs (deep venous thrombosis), lungs (pulmonary embolism), eyes (retinal thrombosis), heart (heart attack), or head (stroke), if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding, if you have had liver disease or breast cancer, or if you are allergic to this medication or any of its ingredients.

Do not use Implanon if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Implanon?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Implanon. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, headache, seizures, epilepsy, gallbladder or kidney disease, depression, high blood pressure, or an allergic reaction to anesthetics and antiseptics.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Implanon is inserted under the skin and should be removed 3 years after the date of insertion.

How should I take Implanon?

Your doctor will insert 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 have a pregnancy test before insertion, schedule the insertion at a specific time of your cycle (for example, within the first days of your regular menstrual bleeding), and use a backup method of birth control, such as condoms, for seven days after Implanon insertion.

Both you and your healthcare provider should check that Implanon is in your arm by feeling the Implanon implant.

What should I avoid while taking Implanon?

Avoid smoking while using Implanon, especially if you are older than 35.

Implanon does not protect you against HIV or sexually transmitted disease; using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from acquiring these diseases.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Implanon?

If Implanon is taken with certain other drugs, the effect of either medication could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Implanon with the following medications: barbiturates, carbamazepine, felbamate, griseofulvin, modafinil, oxcarbazepine, phenylbutazone, phenytoin, rifampin, St. John's Wort, and topiramate.

What are the possible side effects of Implanon?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: irregular and unpredictable bleeding, vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina), weight gain, headache, acne, breast pain, viral infections such as colds, sore throat, sinus infection or flu-like symptoms, stomach pain, painful periods, mood swings, nervousness, depression, back pain, nausea, dizziness, pain, pain at the site of insertion

More serious side effects may include: sharp chest pain, coughing blood, or sudden shortness of breath (possible clot in the lung); persistent pain in the calf (possible clot in the leg); crushing chest pain or heaviness in the chest (possible heart attack); sudden severe headache or vomiting, dizziness or fainting, problems with vision or speech, weakness, or numbness in an arm or leg (possible stroke); sudden partial or complete blindness (possible clot in the eye); yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice), especially with fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark colored urine, or light colored bowel movements (possible liver problems); severe pain, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen (possibly indicating an ectopic pregnancy, a ruptured or twisted ovarian follicle, or gallbladder or liver problems); breast lumps; difficulty sleeping, weakness, lack of energy, tiredness, or sadness (possible severe depression); heavy vaginal bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Can I receive Implanon if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not use Implanon if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while using Implanon, you should see your doctor right away to remove Implanon to prevent ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb).

You may start using Implanon if you are breastfeeding and have delivered your baby more than four weeks ago. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Implanon?

Implanon is inserted under the skin by your doctor and should be removed by your doctor 3 years after the date of insertion. Speak to your doctor if it is appropriate to continue using Implanon.

How should I store Implanon?

Implanon should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight.