NORPLANT

Drug Name: NORPLANT

NORPLANT DESCRIPTION:
LEVONORGESTREL - IMPLANT (lee-voh-nor-JEST-rell)

COMMON NORPLANT BRAND NAME(S):
Norplant

NORPLANT SIDE EFFECTS:
NORPLANT 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. NORPLANT may affect contact lens wearers. Consult your eye doctor if you experience changes in vision or have difficulty with your contact lenses while taking NORPLANT. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE NORPLANT:
NORPLANT: 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.

NORPLANT USES:
NORPLANT is a long-term, yet reversible contraceptive agent used to prevent pregnancy in women.

NORPLANT 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. NORPLANT should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. NORPLANT is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

NORPLANT DRUG INTERACTIONS:
NORPLANT can alter the effects of other medications. Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. NORPLANT can alter the results of certain laboratory tests. Remind your doctor you are taking NORPLANT if you are scheduled for any lab tests. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

NORPLANT OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NORPLANT NOTES:
A physical exam including a breast exam, pelvic exam and a pap smear will be done prior to starting NORPLANT and should be repeated annually.

MISSED NORPLANT DOSE:
The benefit of NORPLANT is that it does not have to be taken routinely. Missed doses are not an issue.

NORPLANT STORAGE:
Before implantation, store NORPLANT at room temperature away from heat and moisture.