Nexplanon (Etonogestrel implant) is a prescription medication used to prevent pregnancy in women of reproductive age. Nexplanon is a small, thin plastic rod inserted under the skin to prevent pregnancy. Etonogestrel implant slowly releases Etonogestrel into the body over a 3-year period. Birth control reduces the rate of unintended pregnancies and the need for unsafe abortions. The active ingredient in Nexplanon is Etonogestrel. Etonogestrel belongs to a class of drugs called progestin contraceptives. It works by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), one of the reproductive hormones important in ovulation.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Nexplanon from Canada manufactured by Organon in the strength of 68 mg implant. The generic Etonogestrel implant is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Nexplanon. The most common side effects of Nexplanon may include the following:
• Acne;
• Change in normal menstruation pattern;
• Pain and irritation of insertion site;
• Painful periods;
• Spotting;
• Weight gain
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Blood clotting;
• Breast lump;
• Ovarian cysts;
• Severe chest pain;
• Vaginitis
These are not all of the side effects of Nexplanon. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Nexplanon if you are allergic to Etonogestrel, other progestins, or any ingredient in Nexplanon. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have breast cancer;
• Have diabetes;
• Have high blood pressure;
• Have high cholesterol;
• Have kidney problems;
• Have liver disease or tumor;
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Nexplanon and ritonavir, carbamazepine, bosentan, primidone, rifampicin, phenytoin, etc. Avoid griseofulvin, St. John’s wort, topiramate, or felbamate with Nexplanon. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while using Nexplanon, there is a high chance of ectopic pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. A small amount of Etonogestrel passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, you may use Nexplanon if 4 weeks have passed since you had your baby. Use Nexplanon precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will place an Etonogestrel implant in your arm. Feel the implant around your arm immediately after receiving Nexplanon. If you cannot feel the implant, inform your doctor immediately and use a non-hormonal birth control like a condom until your doctor confirms the implant is in place. Etonogestrel implant may come out by itself. You may become pregnant if the implant comes out. Use a backup birth control method and contact your doctor immediately. Nexplanon is a birth control method. It does not protect against HIV or other STDs. Etonogestrel implant is effective in preventing pregnancy for 3 years. Get a replacement after this time.