A new two-rod levonorgestrel implant for female contraception: basic concepts

Abstract

A two-rod contraceptive implant system, containing levonorgestrel crystals embedded in a silastic copolymer, has been developed to make insertion and removal times shorter than with the Norplant six-capsule system. The bioequivalence of the two systems has been proved by measurement of levonorgestrel serum levels during the first 3 years of use. After the first week, the serum levels are very similar for the two systems and well above the contraceptive threshold. Insertion and removal times for the two-rod system have been found to be half those required for the Norplant system, while continuation rates and clinical performance have been shown to be virtually identical.

• Levonorgestrel Implant
• Contraception
• Norplant
• Two-ROD System
• Counselling
• Clinical Performance