Researchers have developed a weekly contraceptive patch (30 mcg ethinyl estradiol and 120 mcg levonorgestrel) for women of reproductive age with a BMI less than 30 kg/m2. This patch can be used as an alternative to daily contraceptive pills by women who tolerate the combined hormonal contraceptive well. It is to be used once weekly and can be worn on the abdomen, buttocks, upper arm or torso, but not on the breasts. It consists of layers which serve as a reservoir for contraceptive steroids.
An additional layer which acts as a barrier, helps prevent the accumulation of debris from daily wear. It has a safety profile similar to other approved contraceptives. Clinical trials indicated common adverse events of nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, nausea, headache, and urinary tract infections (UTI). Severe adverse events, like, cholelithiasis, deep vein thrombosis,…
