Drugs & Vitamins

Levonorgestrel Implants Active Ingredients: Levonorgestrel Implants Representative Names: Norplant What are levonorgestrel implant capsules? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with levonorgestrel? What side effects may I notice from using levonorgestrel? What should I watch for while taking levonorgestrel? Where can I keep my medicine? What are levonorgestrel implant capsules? (Back to top) LEVONORGESTREL (Norplant®) is a contraceptive (birth control) device that is surgically implanted under the skin. The device releases the hormone levonorgestrel, a progestin, in the body to prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. Once the implant capsules are removed, fertility quickly returns to normal. Generic levonorgestrel implant capsules are not yet available. NOTE: Norplant® is discontinued in the US as of mid-2002. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •blood vessel disease, or blood clotting disorder •breast cancer •diabetes •disturbed eyesight •heart disease •kidney disease •liver disease •tobacco smoker •vaginal bleeding •an unusual or allergic reaction to levonorgestrel, other hormones, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Levonorgestrel implant capsules are surgically implanted under the skin by a health-care professional. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) This does not apply. What drug(s) may interact with levonorgestrel? (Back to top) •aprepitant, a medicine used for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting •barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures (convulsions) •bosentan •carbamazepine •griseofulvin •modafinil •oxcarbazepine •phenytoin •rifabutin •rifampin •rifapentine •ritonavir •St. John's wort •topiramate •troglitazone or pioglitazone Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from using levonorgestrel? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •dizziness or fainting spells •leg, arm or groin pain •severe headache •sudden shortness of breath •swelling of the hands, feet or ankles, or rapid weight gain •vision or speech problems Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •acne •breakthrough bleeding, spotting, irregular menstrual cycle, or no menstruation •breast discharge •facial hair growth •fluid retention and swelling •loss of appetite or increase in appetite •mood changes, anxiety, depression, frustration, anger, or emotional outbursts •nausea, vomiting •pain or itching at the place where the implant was inserted •skin rash •stomach discomfort •vaginal yeast infection (irritation and white discharge) What should I watch for while taking levonorgestrel? (Back to top) Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You should have a complete check-up every 6 to 12 months. Tobacco smoking increases the risk of getting a blood clot or having a stroke while you are using levonorgestrel, especially if you are more than 35 years old. You are strongly advised not to smoke. If you wear contact lenses and notice visual changes, or if the lenses begin to feel uncomfortable, consult your eye prescriber or health care professional. Levonorgestrel skin implants do not protect you against HIV infection (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) This does not apply. Last Updated:05/07/2003 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.