Abstract
The transdermal contraceptive system (TDS or patch) is a highly effective, reversible method delivering either estrogen and progestin or progestin alone similar to oral contraceptives (OCs). The marketed TDS contains both ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin (EE/NGM, Ortho Evra, Janssen Pharmaceuticals), and was approved by the US FDA in 2001. The EE/NGM delivers the hormones over a 1 week period of time and is indicated for the prevention of pregnancy. Besides having many of the same contraceptive and non-contraceptive benefits as combination oral contraceptives (COCs) containing both estrogen and progestogen, transdermal contraception has additional advantages such as lower peak serum concentrations after application, avoidance of first-pass hepatic metabolism, and a less frequent administration schedule resulting in increased compliance. The most common adverse events are application site reactions, breast discomfort, nausea, and headache. There are new TDS under development that result in lower serum levels of ethinyl estradiol and progestin and others delivering a progestin only.
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