FDA approved Nexplanon (etonogestrel) for Prevention of Pregnancy for Up to 5 YearsFDA approved Nexplanon implant for long-term birth control up to 5 years.

FDA From the archive Source published July 17, 2006 Summary added June 2, 2026 DOI ↗ Editorial oversight: Dr. Sofia Müller, MD · Lifespan & Whole-Person Care

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Key Takeaway

Consider Nexplanon for women seeking long-acting reversible contraception for up to 5 years.

The FDA has approved Nexplanon (etonogestrel implant) for the prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive potential for up to 5 years. The single-rod implant is inserted subdermally just under the skin on the inner side of the non-dominant upper arm. Unlike daily or weekly contraceptives, Nexplanon provides long-acting, reversible contraception without requiring frequent dosing. Healthcare professionals must receive training before performing insertion or removal. The implant must be removed no later than the end of the fifth year and can be replaced at that time if continued contraception is desired. The approval provides an additional option for women seeking a reliable, long-term contraceptive method.

＋ Clinical Details (Mechanism · Dosing · Trial Data · Warnings)

Mechanism of Action

Not reported in label.

Indication & Patient Population

Nexplanon is indicated for prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive potential for up to 5 years.

Dosing & Administration

A single Nexplanon implant is inserted subdermally just under the skin at the inner side of the non-dominant upper arm. The insertion site is overlying the triceps muscle about 8-10 cm from the medial epicondyle of the humerus and 3-5 cm posterior to the sulcus between the biceps and triceps muscles. Insertion must be performed by a healthcare professional trained in the procedure. The implant must be removed by the end of the fifth year. Timing of insertion depends on the woman's recent contraceptive history: for no preceding hormonal contraceptive use in the past month, insert between Day 1 and Day 5 of the menstrual cycle; for switching from combination hormonal contraceptives, insert on the day after the last active tablet or on the day of removal of the vaginal ring or transdermal patch; for progestin-only injectables, insert on the day the next injection is due; for minipill, insert within 24 hours after the last tablet; for contraceptive implant or IUS, insert on the same day the previous device is removed; following first trimester abortion, insert within 5 days; following second trimester abortion, insert between 21 to 28 days; postpartum not breastfeeding, insert between 21 to 28 days; breastfeeding, insert after the fourth postpartum week. Back-up contraception is not necessary if inserted as recommended; otherwise, use a barrier method for 7 days.

Key Clinical Trial Data

Trial data not available in label.

Warnings & Contraindications

Inserting an implant more deeply than subdermally may preclude palpation and localization, making removal difficult or impossible. Healthcare professionals must receive instruction and training prior to performing insertion and/or removal.

Place in Therapy

Nexplanon is a long-acting (up to 5 years), reversible, hormonal contraceptive method. It provides an alternative to daily, weekly, or monthly contraceptive methods.

The FDA has approved Nexplanon (etonogestrel implant) to prevent pregnancy in women of reproductive potential for up to 5 years. This single rod implant is placed just under the skin on the inner side of the non-dominant upper arm. Unlike birth control pills or weekly patches, Nexplanon provides long acting reversible contraception without needing daily or weekly attention.

Nexplanon is for women who want reliable long term birth control. It must be inserted and removed by a healthcare professional who has received special training. The implant should be removed no later than the end of the fifth year. If continued contraception is desired, a new implant can be placed at that time.

This approval gives patients another option for effective birth control. It is important to know that Nexplanon does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Patients should talk to their doctor to see if this method is right for them and to understand the insertion and removal process.

As with any medication, there are possible side effects. Common ones include changes in menstrual bleeding, headache, and weight gain. Patients should discuss their medical history and any concerns with their healthcare provider before choosing Nexplanon.

What this means for you:

Nexplanon is a new long term birth control implant that works for up to 5 years. Talk to your doctor to see if it is right for you.

Study Details

Study typeFda approval

PublishedJul 2006

View Original Abstract ↓

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE NEXPLANON ® is indicated for prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive potential for up to 5 years. NEXPLANON is a progestin indicated for prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive potential for up to 5 years. ( 1 )

FDA approved Nexplanon (etonogestrel) for Prevention of Pregnancy for Up to 5 YearsFDA approved Nexplanon implant for long-term birth control up to 5 years.

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