Jhew asked
I've had the nexplanon implant since August 2015...the time is drawing near to have it removed. HOWEVER I've recently developed these strange itchy red, raised bumps in sporadic places all over my body. For the last 3 weeks, i've thought it to be mosquito bites (as we live in the south) although no one else in my family is getting bitten. This could be hives caused by Nexplanon, as that's the only medication I'm taking and no detergents, foods, cleaners, or soaps have changed?
Answer
Nexplanon is generally not associated with hives unless they are a manifestation of an anaphylactic reaction to the implant. While possible, it would be unlikely to occur after having been using the implant for years as you have been.
Nevertheless, there have been post-marketing and case reports of pruritus, or generalized body itching. If you think your hives/itching is due to Nexplanon, be sure to reach out to your doctor to be evaluated.
What Are The Common Side Effects Of Nexplanon?
Below is a list of the most common side effects of Nexplanon:
Over 10% Incidence
- Headache (25%)
- Acne vulgaris (14%)
- Menstrual problems (e.g. prolonged menstrual bleeding lasting >14 days: 18%)
- Amenorrhea (no bleeding in 90 days: 22%)
- Weight gain (14%
- Abdominal pain (11%)
- Vaginitis (15%)
- Pharyngitis (11%)
1-10% Incidence
- Dizziness (7%)
- Emotional lability (7%)
- Depression (6%)
- Nervousness (6%)
- Pain (6%)
- Localized redness (implant site: ≤3%)
- Dysmenorrhea (7%)
- Nausea (6%)
- Back pain (7%)
