GENERIC NAME: LEVONORGESTREL - IMPLANT (lee-voh-nor-JEST-rell)
BRAND NAME(S): Norplant
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is a long-term, yet reversible contraceptive agent used to prevent pregnancy in women.
HOW TO USE: A set of six specially designed capsules are inserted by a health care professional just under the skin in the upper arm. The medication is slowly released into the body over a five year period. The capsules may be replaced after 5 years if continued contraception is desired. The capsules may also be removed at any time by a health care professional. Carefully read the information the doctor provides you about this medication. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about its use.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication causes irregular menstrual bleeding patterns, lack of menstruation, spotting, stomach upset, headache, stomach cramps, nausea, acne, change in appetite, sweating, weight gain, or irritation at the insertion site. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: pain, redness or warmth at the insertion site, depression, changes in vision, swelling of the feet or ankles, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools. This medication may affect contact lens wearers. Consult your eye doctor if you experience changes in vision or have difficulty with your contact lenses while taking this medication. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, diabetes, seizure disorder, kidney disease, heart trouble, eye disorders, asthma, a history of depression or migraines, history of blood clots, any miscarriages and/or breast cancer, any allergies you have. This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This medication is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: This medication can alter the effects of other medications. Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. This medication can alter the results of certain laboratory tests. Remind your doctor you are taking this medication if you are scheduled for any lab tests. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: A physical exam including a breast exam, pelvic exam and a pap smear will be done prior to starting this medication and should be repeated annually.
MISSED DOSE: The benefit of this medication is that it does not have to be taken routinely. Missed doses are not an issue.
STORAGE: Before implantation, store this medication at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
SLIDESHOW
Sex-Drive Killers: The Causes of Low Libido See SlideshowRelated Disease Conditions
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Birth Control Options
Birth control is available in a variety of methods and types. The method of birth control varies from person to person, and their preferences to either become pregnant or not. Examples of barrier methods include barrier methods (sponge, spermicides, condoms), hormonal methods (pill, patch), surgical sterilization (tubal ligation, vasectomy), natural methods, and the morning-after pill. Side effects and risks of each birth control option should be reviewed before using any birth control method.
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Pregnancy Planning (Tips)
Pregnancy planning is an important step in preparation for starting or expanding a family. Planning for a pregnancy includes taking prenatal vitamins, eating healthy for you and your baby, disease prevention (for both parents and baby) to prevent birth defects and infections, avoiding certain medications that may be harmful to your baby, how much weight gain is healthy exercise safety and pregnancy, travel during pregnancy.
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Sexual Health
Sexual health information including birth control, impotence, herpes, sexually transmitted diseases, staying healthy, women's sexual health concerns, and men's sexual health concerns. Learn about the most common sexual conditions affecting men and women.
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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.