Contraceptive efficacy and patient acceptance of Lunelle.
OBJECTIVE
To review the efficacy, safety, and patient acceptance of the Lunelle monthly contraceptive injection and to raise awareness of this new contraceptive in the United States.


METHODS
Worldwide scientific literature, reports of clinical trials, and manufacturers' product information and guidelines.


CONCLUSIONS
Lunelle is a combined hormonal method with a safety/tolerability profile comparable to that of oral contraceptives (OC) and a high efficacy rate and provides a rapid return of fertility after discontinuation. Moreover, Lunelle was well accepted in a large clinical trial, with satisfaction levels similar to those of new-start OC users.


CONCLUSIONS
Oral contraceptives are the most popular hormonal birth control method in the United States; however, typical use is associated with higher failure rates than those observed with perfect use because of poor compliance. Poor compliance has been attributed in part to the need for daily administration. A new contraceptive method that does not require daily administration and is readily reversible may be suitable for many women, resulting in better overall efficacy.
Freeman
Sarah
S
Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA. Sfree01@emory.edu
D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; D004958:Estradiol / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017258:Medroxyprogesterone Acetate; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care
D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; C403500:Lunelle; D004958:Estradiol; D017258:Medroxyprogesterone Acetate