Name: Levonorgestrel (Norplant)
Class: Long-Acting Contraceptive (Progestin-Only)
Mechanism: Doesn’t always inhibit ovulation. Produces changes in cervical mucus ® block of sperm penetration.
Absorption: Subcutaneous implant
Dist.:
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Irregular menstrual bleeding and headaches.
Utility: Contraception, esp. in patients c/i for estrogen therapy.
Special Features: Cheaper than oral contraceptives, completely reversible, and good for 5 years. Probably the most effective reversible method of contraception available. None of the cardiovascular toxicity of the combination pill.