Combined injectable contraceptive

Combined injectable contraceptive (CIC) monthly injection of progesterone and estradiol taken to inhibit fertility. Brand names include Cyclofem, Novafem, Mesigyna, Lunelle.

History

 * October 5, 2000, Pharmacia received FDA approval for Lunelle™ Monthly Contraceptive Injection.
 * April 2003, Pharmacia acquired by Pfizer (makers of Depo-provera).
 * October 2003, Lunelle was discontinued in the U.S.

Use and packaging
Administered by intramuscular injection into the deltoid, gluteus maximus, or anterior thigh. Ideally administered every 28 to 30 days, though demonstrated to be effective up to 33 days.

Side-effects
The most prominent side effects are menstrual irregularities during the first 3 to 6 months of use.

Formulations

 * Lunelle contains medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) 25 mg plus estradiol cypionate (E2C) 5 mg.
 * Cyclofem contains depomedroxy-progesterone acetate (DMPA) 25 mg and estradiol cypionate 5 mg.
 * Mesigyna contains norethisterone enanthate (NET EN) 50 mg and estradiol valerate 5 mg.
 * Deladroxate contains dihydroxy-progesterone acetophenide 150 mg and estradiol enanthate 10 mg.