ISSUE1749
Nexplanon, a single-rod contraceptive implant containing the progestin etonogestrel, has now been approved for prevention of pregnancy for up to 5 years. It was previously approved for up to 3 years of use.1
A CLINICAL STUDY — FDA approval of the extended duration of use was based on the results of an unpublished single-arm trial (summarized in the manufacturer’s press release) that evaluated the efficacy of Nexplanon from years 3 to 5 in 399 women 18-35 years old (~40% of patients had a BMI ≥30 kg/m2). No new pregnancies were reported from year 3 to year 5.2,3
THE IMPLANT — Nexplanon is one of the most effective reversible contraceptive methods available. It provides long-term contraception and requires no adherence other than an office visit for replacement before the end of the fifth year. Fertility returns rapidly after removal. Irregular bleeding is common.
Nexplanon is placed under the skin on the inside releases 60-75 mcg/day of etonogestrel initially, 30-40 mcg/day by the end of the second year, 25-30 mcg/day by the end of the third year, and 15-20 mcg/day by the end of the fifth year.
REMS PROGRAM — Nexplanon will now only be available through a Risk Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program designed to prevent improper insertion and removal of the implant.
- Choice of contraceptives. Med Lett Drugs Ther 2023; 65:73.
- Organon. Organon announces US Food and Drug Administration approval of supplemental new drug application extending duration of use of Nexplanon (etonogestrel implant) 68 mg radiopaque. January 16, 2026. Available at: https://bit.ly/4keYdVH. Accessed February 11, 2026.
- NIH. A study to assess contraceptive efficacy and safety of etonogestrel (ENG) implant beyond 3 years of use (MK-8415-060). NCT04626596. Available at: https://bit.ly/4tgaihp. Accessed February 11, 2026.
Previous article