Evra Contraceptive Patches

About Evra Contraceptive Patches

Evra Contraceptive Patches are a combined hormonal contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy through a convenient weekly transdermal patch. Each patch continuously releases norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol through the skin into the bloodstream to stop ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the lining of the womb.

Evra patches are applied to the skin once a week for three consecutive weeks, followed by a patch-free week. This method offers reliable, long-term birth control without the need for daily tablets, making it ideal for women who prefer a low-maintenance contraceptive option.

Each patch releases approximately:

• 203 micrograms of norelgestromin per 24 hours
• 33.9 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol per 24 hours

What Are Evra Contraceptive Patches Used For?

Evra Contraceptive Patches are used to provide long-term, reliable contraception. They work by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the womb lining to reduce the chance of pregnancy.

Who Are Evra Contraceptive Patches Suitable For?

Evra is suitable for adult women who want an effective weekly contraceptive method.

Do not use Evra if you:

• Have or have had blood clots (DVT, PE, stroke or heart attack)
• Have migraine with aura
• Have breast, womb, cervical or vaginal cancer
• Have liver disease or liver tumours
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Are allergic to norelgestromin or ethinyl estradiol
• Are taking certain hepatitis C medicines

Speak to a healthcare professional before use if you:

• Have high blood pressure
• Are overweight (BMI over 30)
• Smoke and are over 35 years old
• Have diabetes, migraines, gallbladder disease, or depression
• Have recently given birth or had surgery

How to Use Evra Contraceptive Patches

1. Apply the patch to clean, dry, hairless skin (buttock, abdomen, upper arm or upper back).
2. Press firmly for 10 seconds to ensure good adhesion.
3. Change the patch on the same day each week.
4. Use patches for 3 weeks, then take a 7-day patch-free break.
5. Never wear more than one patch at a time.

Do not apply to the breasts, irritated or broken skin.

Possible Side Effects of Evra Contraceptive Patches

Very common side effects:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness

Common side effects:

• Mood changes including depression
• Dizziness or migraine
• Skin irritation at the patch site
• Weight gain
• Changes to menstrual bleeding

Rare but serious:

• Blood clots (DVT, PE, stroke or heart attack)

Warnings and Precautions

• Does not protect against HIV or sexually transmitted infections.
• Smoking increases the risk of serious side effects, especially over age 35.
• Inform your doctor before surgery or long periods of immobility.
• Check the patch daily to ensure it is still attached.

Storage Instructions

• Store in the original packaging to protect from light and moisture.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Ingredients

Active ingredients: Norelgestromin and Ethinyl Estradiol.
Other ingredients: Polyisobutylene/polybutene adhesive, crospovidone, polyester fabric, lauryl lactate, polyethylene films and silicone coating.

Important Information

• Prescription-only contraceptive patch.
• Must be used exactly as directed for reliable pregnancy prevention.
• Regular weekly application is essential for effectiveness.