Just wondering asked
How long after a Nexplanon implant expires is it still effective?
Answer
Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) is an implantable contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy. The drug manufacturer's package insert states Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) should be removed no later than 3 years after the date of insertion.
The rate of drug release varies over time. The following is the approximate drug release for patients per the package insert:
- Weeks 5-6: 60 to 70 mcg/day
- Rate at end of 1st year: 35-45 mcg/day
- Rate at end of 2nd year: 30-40mcg/day
- Rate at end of 3rd year: 25-30 mcg/day
After the rods are removed, the level of the drug present in the body is undetectable within 1 week.
Though the manufacturer does not recommend use after the third year, there are a couple of studies that did evaluate the use of Etonogestrel past 3 years.
One study tracked use of Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) in patients who continued its use into years 4 and 5. No pregnancies were reported in the 200 patients that were followed. Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) users were more likely to report heavy bleeding. It should also be noted that few patients over 154lbs were followed. Thus, results in patients with heavier body weight may be different.
Using Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) past the 3 years recommended use by the drug manufacturer may be appropriate for some patients. The above study confirmed that the Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) still is effective in years 4 and 5 in preventing pregnancy, in some patients at least.
A discussion with your doctor or other healthcare provider should be had to discuss the benefits and risks associated with using Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) longer than the recommended 3 years.
