LILETTA by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Allergan, Inc.. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.
LILETTA is a progestin-containing intrauterine system indicated for prevention of pregnancy for up to 6 years. (1)
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Allergan at 1-800-678-1605 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-approved patient labeling.
Revised: 10/2019
LILETTA contains 52 mg of levonorgestrel (LNG). Initially, LNG is released at a rate of approximately 20 mcg/day. This rate decreases progressively to approximately 8.6 mcg/day after 6 years. The average in vivo release rate of LNG is approximately 14.3 mcg/day over a period of 6 years.
LILETTA can be removed at any time but must be removed by the end of the sixth year. LILETTA can be replaced at the time of removal with a new LILETTA if continued contraceptive protection is desired.
Refer to Table 1 for instructions on when to start use of LILETTA.
Starting LILETTA in women not currently using hormonal or intrauterine contraception
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Switching to LILETTA from an oral, transdermal, or vaginal hormonal contraceptive |
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Switching to LILETTA from an injectable progestin contraceptive |
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Switching to LILETTA from a contraceptive implant or another IUS |
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Inserting LILETTA after abortion or miscarriage | |
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Inserting LILETTA after Childbirth
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LILETTA (Figure 1a) is provided in a tray, sealed with a peel-off lid and is inserted into the uterine cavity with the provided inserter (Figure 1b) [see Description (11)] by carefully following the insertion instructions. Do not use if the seal of the sterile package is broken or appears compromised. Use strict aseptic techniques throughout the insertion procedure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. LILETTA is for single use only.
Figure 1a: LILETTA Intrauterine Contraceptive System (IUS)
Figure 1b: LILETTA IUS with Inserter
The LILETTA IUS is packaged partially preloaded within the inserter. The threads are passed through the insertion tube and exit through an opening in the handle at the cleft.
The handle of the inserter contains a BLUE slider labeled with the number 1 and a GREEN slider labeled with the number 2. The handle is labeled with the number 3. The sliders are labeled with the numbers 1 and 2, and the handle is labeled with the number 3 to assist with the insertion process (Figure 2). Moving the sliders achieves the positions required to complete the insertion process.
Figure 2: Inserter Sliders
Insertion
LILETTA should only be inserted by a trained healthcare professional. Healthcare professionals should become thoroughly familiar with the product, product educational materials, product insertion instructions, prescribing information, and patient labeling before attempting insertion of LILETTA.
Planning for Insertion
Use aseptic technique during the entire insertion procedure. Loading and inserting LILETTA can be done with or without sterile gloves. If not using sterile gloves, maintain sterility during LILETTA loading and insertion; do not touch LILETTA, the inside of the sterile tray, or parts of any sterile instrument that will pierce tissue (e.g., a tenaculum on the cervix) or go into the uterine cavity. If, at any step, there is a need to touch a sterile surface, sterile gloves should be used.
Preparation for Insertion
The overall insertion process is conducted in 5 steps.
Step 1 – Preparation of Patient for Insertion
Step 2 – Opening the Sterile LILETTA Packaging
Step 3 – Loading LILETTA into the Inserter
Figure 3: Removing Inserter from Tray
Figure 4: Sliders Completely Forward for Loading LILETTA
Figure 5: Locking the Threads in Cleft
Figure 6: Close-up of Hemispherical Dome at Tip of Tube
Figure 7: Adjusting the Flange
Step 4 – Inserting LILETTA into the Uterus
Figure 8: Advancing Insertion Tube until Flange is 1.5 to 2 cm from the External Cervix
Figure 9: Releasing and Opening the Arms of the IUS
Figure 10: Move LILETTA into the Fundal Position
Step 5 – Releasing LILETTA and Procedure Completion
While holding the inserter steady and maintaining its position relative to the cervix, move both sliders (BLUE and GREEN) together while maintaining the common slider recess down toward the number 3 on the handle (Figure 11) until a click is heard and the GREEN indicator at the bottom of the handle is visible (Figure 12).
Figure 11: Releasing LILETTA from the Inserter Tube
Figure 12: Green Indicator Visible and Threads Released from Cleft
Figure 13: Cut the Threads about 3 cm from the Cervix
Important information to consider during or after insertion:
Difficult Insertion
Re-examine and evaluate patients 4 to 6 weeks after insertion and once a year thereafter, or more frequently if clinically indicated. The healthcare professional should check strings during each routine and follow-up visit.
Timing of Removal
Planning for Removal
Removal Instructions
Figure 14: Removal of LILETTA
LILETTA is contraindicated when one or more of the following conditions exist:
Evaluate women for ectopic pregnancy if they become pregnant with LILETTA in place because the likelihood of a pregnancy being ectopic is increased with LILETTA. Approximately half of pregnancies that occur with LILETTA in place are likely to be ectopic. Also consider the possibility of ectopic pregnancy in the case of lower abdominal pain, especially in association with missed menses or new onset bleeding in an amenorrheic woman. If an ectopic pregnancy is confirmed, LILETTA should be removed.
The incidence of ectopic pregnancy in the clinical trial with LILETTA, which excluded women with a history of ectopic pregnancy who did not have a subsequent intrauterine pregnancy, was approximately 0.12 per 100 women-years. The risk of ectopic pregnancy in women who have a history of ectopic pregnancy and use LILETTA is unknown. Women with a previous history of ectopic pregnancy, tubal surgery, or pelvic infection have a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy may require surgery and may result in loss of fertility.
Women who use LILETTA should be informed about recognizing the signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy and promptly reporting them to their healthcare professional, and about the associated risks of ectopic pregnancy (e.g., loss of fertility).
If pregnancy occurs while using LILETTA, determine if LILETTA is in the uterus. If LILETTA is in the uterus, attempt to remove LILETTA because leaving it in place may increase the risk of spontaneous abortion and preterm labor. Removal of LILETTA or probing of the uterus may also result in spontaneous abortion. In the event of an intrauterine pregnancy with LILETTA, consider the following:
Septic Abortion
If a woman becomes pregnant with an IUS in place, septic abortion—potentially including septicemia, septic shock, and death—may occur. Septic abortion typically requires hospitalization and treatment with intravenous antibiotics. Septic abortion may result in spontaneous abortion or a medical indication for pregnancy termination. Should severe infection of the uterus occur, hysterectomy may be required, which will result in permanent infertility. LILETTA is contraindicated in patients who have had an infected abortion in the prior 3 months.
Continuation of Pregnancy
If a woman becomes pregnant with LILETTA in place and if LILETTA cannot be removed or the woman chooses not to have it removed, warn her that failure to remove LILETTA increases the risk of miscarriage, sepsis, premature labor, and premature delivery. Prenatal care should include counseling about these risks and that she should report immediately any flu-like symptoms, fever, chills, cramping, pain, bleeding, vaginal discharge or leakage of fluid, or any other symptom that suggests complications of the pregnancy.
Severe infection or sepsis, including Group A streptococcal sepsis (GAS), have been reported following insertion of LNG-releasing IUSs. In some cases, severe pain occurred within hours of insertion followed by sepsis within days. Because death from GAS is more likely if treatment is delayed, it is important to be aware of these rare but serious infections. Aseptic technique during insertion of LILETTA is essential in order to minimize serious infections such as GAS.
Insertion of LILETTA is contraindicated in the presence of known or suspected PID or endometritis or a history of PID unless there has been a subsequent intrauterine pregnancy. As well, it is contraindicated in patients with untreated acute cervicitis or vaginitis (including bacterial vaginosis), known chlamydial or gonococcal cervical infection, or other known lower genital tract infections, until the infection is controlled. IUSs have been associated with an increased risk of PID, most likely due to organisms being introduced into the uterus during insertion. Assess risk factors for infection accordingly.
In the clinical trial with LILETTA, pelvic infection was diagnosed in 0.8% of women. Pelvic infection was diagnosed as PID in 0.5% of women and as endometritis in 0.3% of women. Infections occurred following variable duration-of-use. One woman diagnosed with PID and two women diagnosed with endometritis developed the infection within a week of LILETTA insertion. One case of endometritis was diagnosed at 39 days after LILETTA insertion. The remaining 11 cases of PID and endometritis were diagnosed more than six months after insertion, including one at 30 days after IUS removal.
Women who use LILETTA should be counseled to promptly notify a healthcare professional if they develop lower abdominal or pelvic pain, fever, chills, unusual or malodorous discharge, unexplained bleeding, genital lesions or sores, or dyspareunia. In such circumstances, perform a pelvic examination promptly to evaluate for possible pelvic infection. Remove LILETTA in cases of recurrent PID or endometritis, or if an acute pelvic infection is severe or does not respond to treatment.
Women at Increased Risk for PID or Endometritis
PID and endometritis are often associated with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and LILETTA does not protect against STIs. The risk of PID or endometritis is greater for women who have multiple sexual partners, and for women whose sexual partner(s) have multiple sexual partners. Women who have had PID or endometritis are at increased risk for a recurrence or re-infection. Other risk factors for these infections include leukemia, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and illicit intravenous drug use.
Asymptomatic PID or Endometritis
PID or endometritis may be asymptomatic but still result in tubal damage and its sequelae.
Treatment of PID or Endometritis
Following a diagnosis of PID or endometritis, or suspected PID or endometritis, perform appropriate testing for sexually transmitted infection and initiate antibiotic therapy promptly. LILETTA does not need to be removed immediately if the woman needs ongoing contraception.1 In the LILETTA clinical trial, 12 of the 14 women who developed PID or endometritis were successfully treated without removal of LILETTA (one of the 14 women developed PID 30 days after removal).
Reassess the woman in 48-72 hours. If no clinical improvement occurs, continue antibiotics and consider removal of LILETTA. If the woman wants to discontinue use, remove LILETTA after antibiotics have been started to avoid the potential risk for bacterial spread resulting from the removal procedure. Guidelines for PID or endometritis treatment are available from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia.1
Actinomycosis
Actinomycosis has been associated with IUS use. Symptomatic women with known actinomycosis infection should have LILETTA removed and receive antibiotics. Actinomycetes can be found in the genital tract cultures in healthy women without IUSs. The significance of actinomyces-like organisms on Pap test in an asymptomatic IUS user is unknown, and so this finding alone does not always require LILETTA removal and treatment. When possible, confirm a Pap test diagnosis with cultures.
Perforation (total or partial, including penetration/embedment of LILETTA in the uterine wall or cervix) may occur, most often during insertion, although the perforation may not be detected until sometime later. Perforation may also occur at any time during IUS use. Perforation may reduce contraceptive efficacy and result in pregnancy. This may be associated with severe pain and continued bleeding.
The incidence of perforation during or following LILETTA insertion in the clinical trial, which excluded breastfeeding women, was 0.1%.
If perforation is suspected the IUS should be removed as soon as possible, surgery may be required. Delayed detection or removal of LILETTA in case of perforation may result in migration outside the uterine cavity, adhesions, peritonitis, intestinal perforations, intestinal obstruction, abscesses, and erosion of adjacent viscera.
In a large prospective comparative non-interventional cohort study with another IUS the incidence of uterine perforation was reported as 6.3 per 1,000 insertions for lactating women, compared to 1.0 per 1,000 insertions for non-lactating women.
The risk of perforation may be increased if LILETTA is inserted when the uterus is fixed retroverted or not completely involuted during the post-partum period. Delay LILETTA insertion a minimum of four weeks or until involution is complete following a delivery or a second trimester abortion.
Partial or complete expulsion of LILETTA may occur, resulting in the loss of contraceptive protection. In the clinical trial with LILETTA, an overall expulsion rate of 4.0% over 6 years was reported, with a rate of 2.2% in nulliparous women and 6.2% in parous women. The majority (73.5%) occur in the first 12 months, with 25.0% occurring in the first three months and 44.1% in the first six months, cumulatively. Expulsion may be associated with symptoms of bleeding or pain, or it may be asymptomatic and go unnoticed. LILETTA typically decreases menstrual bleeding over time; therefore, an increase in menstrual bleeding may be indicative of an expulsion. Consider further diagnostic imaging, such as sonography or X-ray, to confirm expulsion if LILETTA is not found in the uterus.
The risk of expulsion may be increased when the uterus is not completely involuted at the time of insertion. Delay LILETTA insertion a minimum of 4 weeks or until uterine involution is complete following a delivery or a second trimester abortion.
Remove a partially expelled LILETTA. If expulsion has occurred, a new LILETTA may be inserted within 7 days after the onset of a menstrual period after pregnancy has been ruled out.
Because the contraceptive effect of LILETTA is mainly due to its local effects within the uterus, ovulatory cycles with follicular rupture usually occur in women of fertile age using LILETTA. Sometimes atresia of the follicle is delayed and the follicle may continue to grow. Most ovarian cysts that occur during use of LNG-releasing IUSs are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously during two to three months of observation. Cysts that cause clinical symptoms can result in pelvic or abdominal pain or dyspareunia. Symptomatic ovarian cysts occurred in 4.5% of subjects using LILETTA over the course of 6 years, and 0.3% of subjects discontinued use of LILETTA because of an ovarian cyst.
Evaluate persistent ovarian cysts. Surgical intervention is not usually required, but may be necessary in some cases. Discuss this risk with patients who use LILETTA.
LILETTA can alter the bleeding pattern and result in spotting, irregular bleeding, heavy bleeding, oligomenorrhea, and amenorrhea. During the first three to six months of LILETTA use, the number of bleeding and spotting days may increase and irregular bleeding patterns may develop. Thereafter, the number of bleeding and spotting days usually decreases but bleeding may remain irregular.
In the LILETTA clinical trial, amenorrhea developed in approximately 19% of LILETTA users by the end of the first year of use, 27% by the end of the second year of use, 37% by the end of the third year of use, 37% by the end of the fourth year of use, 40% by the end of the fifth year of use, and 40% by the end of the sixth year of use. In the trial, 2.3% of LILETTA subjects discontinued due to bleeding complaints. Table 2 shows the bleeding and spotting days based on 28-day cycle equivalents.
28-Day Cycle Equivalent | Cycle 1
N=1,691 | Cycle 4
N=1,593 | Cycle 7
N=1,519 | Cycle 13
N=1,395 | Cycle 26
N=1,108 |
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Days on treatment | 1-28 | 85-112 | 169-196 | 337-364 | 674-728 | |||||
Mean | SD | Mean | SD | Mean | SD | Mean | SD | Mean | SD | |
Number of bleeding days | 5.8 | 5.2 | 2.3 | 3.3 | 1.6 | 2.7 | 1.2 | 2.4 | 0.8 | 1.8 |
Number of spotting days | 9.0 | 5.9 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 3.2 | 3.6 | 2.7 | 3.4 | 1.9 | 2.8 |
Note: Includes all LILETTA subjects.
In the LILETTA clinical trial, 537 of 538 (99.8%) women evaluated experienced menses after LILETTA removal. This excludes fourteen women who became pregnant (9 women), had a hysterectomy (3 women), were considered menopausal after removal (1 woman), or had ovulatory dysfunction (1 woman).
If a significant change in bleeding develops during prolonged use, conduct diagnostic tests to assess possible endometrial pathology. Consider the possibility of pregnancy if menstruation does not occur within six weeks of the onset of a previous menstruation. After excluding pregnancy, repeat pregnancy tests are generally not necessary in amenorrheic women unless indicated by other signs of pregnancy or pelvic pain.
Women who currently have or have had breast cancer, or have a suspicion of breast cancer, should not use hormonal contraception, including LILETTA, because some breast cancers are hormone-sensitive [see Contraindications (4)].
Spontaneous reports of breast cancer have been received during postmarketing experience with LNG-releasing IUSs. Observational studies have not provided consistent evidence of an increased risk of breast cancer with use of a LNG-releasing IUS.
Obtain a complete medical and social history, including partner status, to determine conditions that might influence the selection of an IUS for contraception.
Exclude underlying endometrial pathology (e.g., polyps or cancer) prior to the insertion of LILETTA in women with persistent or uncharacteristic bleeding because irregular bleeding/spotting is common during the first months of LILETTA use and may preclude adequate assessment after insertion. LILETTA is contraindicated in women with uterine bleeding of unknown etiology.
Exclude underlying congenital or acquired uterine anomalies, including fibroids, that distort the uterine cavity and would be incompatible with correct IUS placement [see Contraindications (4)].
Ensure a previously inserted IUS has been removed prior to insertion of LILETTA [see Contraindications (4)].
Assess whether the woman is at increased risk of infection (e.g., leukemia, acquired immune deficiency syndrome [AIDS], IV drug abuse), or has a history of PID unless there has been a subsequent intrauterine pregnancy. LILETTA does not protect against HIV/STI transmission [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Use LILETTA with caution after careful assessment if any of the following conditions exist, and consider removal of the IUS if any of them arise during use:
Consider removing LILETTA if any of the following conditions arise during use [see Contraindications (4)]:
If the threads are not visible or are significantly shortened, they may have broken or retracted into the cervical canal or uterus. Consider the possibility that the IUS may have been displaced, (for example, expulsed or perforated the uterus) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5, 5.6)]. Exclude pregnancy and verify the location of LILETTA by an appropriate diagnostic method, e.g., ultrasonography, X-ray, or gentle exploration of the cervical canal with a suitable instrument [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)]. If LILETTA is displaced, remove it. A new LILETTA may be inserted at that time or during the next menses if it is certain that conception has not occurred. If LILETTA is in place with no evidence of perforation, no intervention is indicated.
The following serious or important adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The data described below reflect exposure of 1,751 generally healthy 16- to 45-year-old women to LILETTA in a large, multi-center contraceptive trial conducted in the US, including 1,401 exposed for 1 year and 402 subjects who completed 6 years of use; 58% were nulliparous (mean age 25.1 ± 4.3 years) and 42% were parous (mean age 30.3 ± 6.1 years). Most women who received LILETTA were Caucasian (78.4%) or Black/African American (13.3%); 14.7% of women were of Hispanic ethnicity. The clinical trial had no upper or lower weight or body mass index (BMI) limit. Mean BMI of LILETTA subjects was 26.9 kg/m2 (range 15.8 – 61.6 kg/m2); 25.1% had a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 of which 5.3% had a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2. The data cover more than 68,000 28-day cycles of LILETTA exposure. The frequencies of reported adverse drug reactions represent crude incidences.
The most common adverse reactions during the LILETTA clinical trial (occurring in ≥ 5% of users) are shown in Table 3. The most common adverse reactions during the first year of use were acne (11.4%), bacterial vaginitis (9.0%), and vulvovaginal mycotic infection (7.9%).
Adverse Reaction | % LILETTA Subjects (N = 1,751) |
Vulvovaginal mycotic infections | 19.2% |
Vaginal bacterial infections | 18.6% |
Acne | 15.3% |
Nausea or vomiting | 10.3% |
Abdominal discomfort or pain | 9.9% |
Headache | 9.5% |
Breast tenderness or pain | 9.5% |
Dyspareunia | 9.3% |
Anxiety | 8.8% |
Pelvic discomfort or pain | 8.4% |
Depression | 8.3% |
Dysmenorrhea | 6.4% |
Mood changes | 6.3% |
Weight increased | 5.9% |
Back pain | 5.9% |
Vaginal discharge | 5.5% |
In the contraceptive clinical trial, 19.2% of LILETTA users discontinued prematurely due to an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were expulsion (4.0%) and bleeding complaints (2.3%). The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation during the first year of use were expulsion (2.9%) and acne (0.7%). The next most common adverse reactions causing discontinuation were acne (1.4%), dysmenorrhea (1.0%), weight increased (1.0%), menorrhagia (0.9%), mood swings (0.8%), uterine spasm (0.7%), dyspareunia (0.6%) and pelvic pain (0.6%). Two women discontinued the clinical trial due to PID and one due to endometritis.
In the clinical trial, serious adverse reactions related to LILETTA were ectopic pregnancies, ovarian cysts, and IUS perforation requiring a laparoscopic surgery.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of LNG-releasing IUSs. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Risk Summary
LILETTA is contraindicated for use in pregnant women because there is no need for pregnancy prevention in a woman who is already pregnant and LILETTA may cause adverse pregnancy outcomes. If a woman becomes pregnant with LILETTA in place, there is an increased risk of miscarriage, sepsis, premature labor, and premature delivery. Published studies report no harmful effects on fetal development associated with long-term use of contraceptive doses of oral progestins in a pregnant woman. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with LILETTA.
The background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2-4% and of miscarriage is 15-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
Risk Summary
Published studies report the presence of LNG in human milk. Small amounts of progestins (approximately 0.1% of the total maternal doses) were detected in the breast milk of nursing mothers who used other LNG-releasing IUSs. Isolated cases of decreased milk production have been reported with another LNG-releasing IUS. There are no reports of adverse effects in breastfed infants with maternal use of progestin-only contraceptives. The infant’s developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for LILETTA, underlying maternal conditions, and any potential adverse effects from LILETTA on the infant.
The incidence of uterine perforation appears higher in lactating women [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
Pregnancy Testing
Assess pregnancy status prior to inserting LILETTA, as recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Safety and effectiveness of LILETTA have been established in females of reproductive potential. The safety and effectiveness are expected to be the same for postpubertal females under the age of 16 as for users 16 years and older. The LILETTA clinical trial included 11 subjects that were 16 to 17 years of age; no differences in safety or effectiveness were identified in these subjects through 6 years of use of LILETTA. Use of this product is not indicated before menarche.
LILETTA is not indicated in women after menopause and has not been studied in this population.
No studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of hepatic disease on the disposition of LNG released from LILETTA [see Contraindications (4)].
LILETTA (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) contains 52 mg of levonorgestrel, a progestin, and is intended to provide an initial release rate of 20.1 mcg/day of levonorgestrel.
Levonorgestrel USP, (-)-13-ethyl-17-hydroxy-18,19-dinor-17α-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one, the active ingredient in LILETTA, is the levorotatory form of norgestrel, which consists of a racemic mixture of D-(–)-norgestrel (levonorgestrel) and L-(+)-norgestrel (dextronorgestrel). It has a molecular weight of 312.45, a molecular formula of C21H28O2, and the following structural formula:
LILETTA consists of a T-shaped polyethylene frame (T-frame) with a drug reservoir around the vertical stem (Figure 15). The T-frame has a loop at one end of the vertical stem and two horizontal arms at the other end. The drug reservoir consists of a cylinder, made of a mixture of 52 mg levonorgestrel and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) formed from silicone base, tetra-n-propyl silicate, and stannous octoate. The drug reservoir is covered by a translucent PDMS membrane. The low-density polyethylene of the T-frame is compounded with barium sulfate, which makes it radio-opaque. A blue polypropylene monofilament removal thread is attached to an eyelet at the end of the vertical stem of the T-frame. The polypropylene of the removal thread contains a copper-containing pigment as a colorant. The components of LILETTA, including its packaging, are not manufactured using natural rubber latex.
Figure 15: Diagram of LILETTA
The inserter device provided with LILETTA is a single-use, disposable, sterile insertion system (tube, flange, handle; Figure 16), partially preloaded with the IUS product for intrauterine administration.
Once LILETTA has been inserted, the inserter is discarded.
Figure 16: Diagram of Inserter
The local mechanism by which continuously released LNG provides contraception has not been conclusively demonstrated. Studies of LNG-releasing IUSs suggest several mechanisms for pregnancy prevention: prevention of fertilization due to the thickening of the cervical mucus, which inhibits sperm passage through the cervix, and inhibition of sperm mobility and function (capacitation), and alteration of the endometrium.
LILETTA has mainly local progestogenic effects in the uterine cavity which change the endometrium and may lead to alterations in the menstrual bleeding pattern [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]. High local concentrations of LNG lead to morphological changes including stromal pseudo-decidualization, glandular atrophy, a leukocytic infiltration, and a decrease in glandular and stromal mitoses.
In clinical trials with other LNG-releasing IUSs with an LNG release rate similar to LILETTA, approximately 45-75% of menstrual cycles were ovulatory.
Absorption
Low doses of LNG are administered into the uterine cavity with the LILETTA intrauterine delivery system. The initial in vivo release rate is 20.1 mcg/day and decreases to 17.5 mcg/day at 1 year, 15.2 mcg/day at 2 years, 13.2 mcg/day at 3 years, 11.4 mcg/day at 4 years, 9.9 mcg/day at 5 years, and 8.6 mcg/day at 6 years.
In the phase 3 clinical trial, systemic plasma LNG concentrations were assessed in a subset of subjects through Month 30 and in all subjects in the trial at Month 36 and after. Plasma LNG concentrations following insertion of LILETTA are shown in Table 4.
7 Days (n = 40) | 6 Months (n = 36) | 12 Months (n = 33) | 24 Months (n = 30) | 36 Months (n = 894) | 48 Months (n = 737) | 60 Months (n = 531) | 72 Months (n = 191) |
252 ± 123 | 195 ± 68 | 168 ± 51 | 150 ± 47 | 132 ± 54 | 114 ± 52 | 101 ± 43 | 93 ± 45 |
Distribution
The apparent volume of distribution of LNG at steady-state following oral administration is reported to be approximately 1.8 L/kg. It is about 98.9% protein-bound, principally to sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and, to a lesser extent, serum albumin.
Elimination
The elimination half-life of LNG after a single oral administration is approximately 13.9 ± 3.2 hours. Metabolic clearance rates may differ among individuals by several-fold, and this may account in part for wide individual variations in LNG concentrations seen in individuals using LNG–containing contraceptive products.
Metabolism
Following absorption, LNG is conjugated at the 17β-OH position to form sulfate conjugates and, to a lesser extent, glucuronide conjugates in serum. Significant amounts of conjugated and unconjugated 3α, 5β-tetrahydrolevonorgestrel are also present in serum, along with much smaller amounts of 3α, 5α-tetrahydrolevonorgestrel and 16β-hydroxylevonorgestrel. In vitro studies have demonstrated that oxidative metabolism of LNG is catalyzed by CYP enzymes, especially CYP3A4.
Excretion
About 45% of LNG and its metabolites are excreted in the urine and about 32% are excreted in feces, mostly as glucuronide conjugates.
Specific Populations
Racial or Ethnic Groups:
The effect of race on plasma LNG concentrations after LILETTA insertion was assessed in 731 (80%) White subjects, 106 (12%) Black subjects, 40 (4%) Asian subjects, 8 (1%) American Indian/Alaska Native subjects, and 21 (2%) multiple-race subjects. Race does not appear to affect LNG concentrations following LILETTA insertion [see Clinical Studies (14)].
BMI/Body Weight:
The effect of BMI on LNG exposure was assessed in 673 non-obese (BMI ≤ 30 kg/m2) and 219 obese women (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). Plasma LNG concentrations were approximately 24-32% lower in obese subjects than in non-obese subjects based on data collected from Months 36 to 72. However, since LILETTA has a mainly local progestogenic effect in the uterine cavity, the clinical relevance of the reduced systemic exposure is unclear [see Clinical Studies (14)].
Drug Interaction Studies
Contraceptive effect of LILETTA is mediated via the direct release of LNG into the uterine cavity and is unlikely to be affected by drug interactions via enzyme induction or inhibition.
LILETTA was studied in a multicenter, randomized, open-label clinical trial conducted in the US that enrolled 1,910 generally healthy women aged 16 to 45 years, 1,751 of whom received LILETTA. LILETTA was inserted in 1,011 (58%) nulliparous and 740 (42%) parous women. Women with a history of ectopic pregnancy, PID, or trophoblastic disease without a subsequent intrauterine pregnancy, who were less than 4 weeks post-pregnancy, had HIV, or were not in a mutually monogamous relationship at study entry were excluded. The demographic profile of enrolled women who received LILETTA are as follows: Caucasian 78.4%, Black or African American 13.3%, Asian 3.9%, American Indian or Alaska Native 1.2%, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 0.3%; 2.9% identified multiple races; 14.7% indicated Hispanic ethnicity. The clinical trial had no upper or lower weight or BMI limit and the BMI range was 15.8 – 61.6 kg/m2. The mean BMI of LILETTA subjects was 26.9 kg/m2; 24% were overweight, 24% were obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), and 5% were morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2).
The pregnancy rate calculated as the Pearl Index (PI) in women aged 16 to 35 years, inclusive, was the primary efficacy endpoint used to assess contraceptive reliability. The PI was calculated based on 28-day equivalent exposure cycles; evaluable cycles excluded those in which back-up contraception was used unless a pregnancy occurred in that cycle. The Year 1 PI was based on two pregnancies and the cumulative 6-year pregnancy rate was calculated by the life table method, based on a total of nine pregnancies that occurred after the onset of treatment and within 7 days after LILETTA removal or expulsion. Table 5 shows the annual PI for each of the six years and the calculated cumulative life table pregnancy rates through years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.
LILETTA Clinical Trial | Number of 28-Day Cycles of Exposure
By Year | Year-by-Year
Pearl Index Pregnancy Rate (95% CI) | Cumulative 28-Day Cycles of Exposure | Cumulative Year
Life Table Pregnancy Rate (95% CI) |
Year 1 | 17,175 | 0.15 (0.02, 0.55) | 17,175 | 0.14 (0.04, 0.57) |
Year 2 | 14,205 | 0.37 (0.10, 0.94) | 31,380 | 0.49 (0.22, 1.09) |
Year 3 | 11,760 | 0.11 (0.00, 0.62) | 43,140 | 0.59 (0.28, 1.25) |
Year 4 | 9,891 | 0.13 (0.00, 0.73) | 53,031 | 0.72 (0.36, 1.45) |
Year 5 | 8,335 | 0.16 (0.00, 0.87) | 61,366 | 0.87 (0.44, 1.70) |
Year 6 | 5,091 | 0.00 (0.00, 0.94) | 66,457 | 0.87 (0.44, 1.70) |
Conception rates after the removal of LILETTA were assessed and appeared consistent with conception rates in the general population of women having regular unprotected sexual intercourse for 12 months.
Of 191 women who desired pregnancy after study discontinuation, 79% conceived within 6 months after removal of LILETTA, and 85% conceived within 12 months after removal of LILETTA.
LILETTA (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system), containing 52 mg levonorgestrel, is supplied partially preloaded within the inserter and packaged in a clear plastic tray with lid. LILETTA is available in a carton of one sterile unit. NDC # 0023-5858-01.
LILETTA is supplied sterile. LILETTA is sterilized with ethylene oxide. Do not re-sterilize. Do not use if the packaging is damaged, or if the packaging is opened. Insert before the end of the month shown on the packaging. Store at 20°C – 25°C (68°F – 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C – 30°C (59°F – 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store the sealed tray with peel-off lid in outer carton until use to protect from light.
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).
Complete the Follow-Up Reminder Card and give it to the patient.
LILETTA® and its design are registered trademarks of Odyssea Pharma SPRL, an Allergan affiliate.
Manufactured by:
Odyssea Pharma, SPRL, Belgium
An affiliated company of Allergan USA, Inc.
Distributed by:
Allergan USA, Inc. Irvine, CA 92612
Marketed by:
Allergan USA, Inc. Medicines360
Irvine, CA 92612 San Francisco, CA 94111
© 2019 Allergan and Medicines360. All rights reserved.
V1.0USPI5858
PATIENT INFORMATION
LILETTA (lye-LET-uh) (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) |
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Read this Patient Information carefully before you decide if LILETTA is right for you. This information does not take the place of talking with your gynecologist or other healthcare professional. If you have any questions about LILETTA, ask your healthcare professional. You should also learn about other birth control methods to choose the one that is best for you. | ||
LILETTA does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). | ||
What is LILETTA?
Two thin threads are attached to the stem (lower end) of LILETTA. The threads are the only part of LILETTA you can feel when LILETTA is in your uterus; however, unlike a tampon string, the threads do not extend outside your body. |
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LILETTA is small | and flexible | |
What if I need birth control for more than 6 years?
LILETTA must be removed after 6 years. Your healthcare professional can place a new LILETTA during the same office visit if you choose to continue using LILETTA. |
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What if I want to stop using LILETTA?
LILETTA is intended for use up to 6 years, but you can stop using LILETTA at any time by asking your healthcare professional to remove it. You could become pregnant as soon as LILETTA is removed, so you should use another method of birth control if you do not want to become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare professional about the best birth control methods for you, because your new method may need to be started 7 days before LILETTA is removed to prevent pregnancy. |
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What if I change my mind about birth control and want to become pregnant in less than 6 years?
Your healthcare professional can remove LILETTA at any time. You could become pregnant as soon as LILETTA is removed. About 6 out of 7 women who want to become pregnant will become pregnant sometime in the first year after LILETTA is removed. |
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How does LILETTA work?
LILETTA may work in several ways including thickening cervical mucus, inhibiting sperm movement, reducing sperm survival, and thinning the lining of your uterus. It is not known exactly how these actions work together to prevent pregnancy. |
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How well does LILETTA work for contraception?
The following chart shows the chance of getting pregnant for women who use different methods of birth control. Each box on the chart contains a list of birth control methods that are similar in effectiveness. The most effective methods are at the top of the chart. The box on the bottom of the chart shows the chance of getting pregnant for women who do not use birth control and are trying to get pregnant. LILETTA, an intrauterine system (IUS), is also known as an intrauterine device (IUD), which is described in the box at the top of the chart. |
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Who might use LILETTA?
You might choose LILETTA if you:
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Do not use LILETTA if you:
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Before having LILETTA placed, tell your healthcare professional if you have or have had any medical conditions, including those listed below:
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How is LILETTA placed?
LILETTA is placed by your healthcare professional during an in-office visit. First, your healthcare professional will examine your pelvis to find the exact position of your uterus. Your healthcare professional will then clean your vagina and cervix with an antiseptic solution and slide a plastic tube containing LILETTA through the cervix into your uterus. Your healthcare professional will then remove the plastic tube and leave LILETTA in your uterus. Your healthcare professional will trim the threads to the right length. You may experience pain, bleeding, or dizziness during and after placement. If your symptoms do not pass within 30 minutes after placement, LILETTA may not have been placed correctly. Your healthcare professional will examine you to see if LILETTA needs to be removed or replaced. |
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Should I check that LILETTA is in place?
Yes, you should check that LILETTA is in proper position by feeling the threads. It is a good habit to do this 1 time a month. Your healthcare professional should teach you how to check that LILETTA is in place. First, wash your hands with soap and water. You can check by reaching up to the top of your vagina with clean fingers to feel the threads. Do not pull on the threads. If you feel more than just the threads or if you cannot feel the threads, LILETTA may not be in the right position and may not prevent pregnancy. Use non-hormonal back-up birth control (such as condoms and spermicide) and ask your healthcare professional to check that LILETTA is still in the right place. |
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How soon after placement of LILETTA should I return to my healthcare professional?
Call your healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns (see “When should I call my healthcare professional?”). Otherwise, you should return to your healthcare professional for a follow-up visit 4 to 6 weeks after LILETTA is placed to make sure that LILETTA is in the right position. |
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Can I use tampons with LILETTA?
Yes, tampons may be used with LILETTA |
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What if I become pregnant while using LILETTA?
Call your healthcare professional right away if you think you are pregnant. If possible, also do a urine pregnancy test. If you get pregnant while using LILETTA, you may have an ectopic pregnancy. This means that the pregnancy is not in the uterus. Unusual vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain especially with missed periods may be a sign of ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that often requires surgery. Ectopic pregnancy can cause internal bleeding, infertility, and even death. There are also risks if you get pregnant while using LILETTA and the pregnancy is in the uterus. Severe infection, miscarriage, premature labor, premature delivery, and even death can occur with pregnancies that continue with an intrauterine system (IUS). Because of this, your healthcare professional may try to remove LILETTA, even though removing it may cause a miscarriage. If LILETTA cannot be removed, talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits and risks of continuing the pregnancy. If you continue your pregnancy, see your healthcare professional regularly. Call your healthcare professional right away if you get flu-like symptoms, fever, chills, cramping, pain, bleeding, vaginal discharge, or fluid leaking from your vagina. These may be signs of infection. It is not known if LILETTA can cause long-term effects on the fetus if it stays in place during a pregnancy. |
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How will LILETTA change my periods?
For the first 3 to 6 months, your period may become irregular and the number of bleeding days may increase. You may also have frequent spotting or light bleeding and cramping. Some women have heavy bleeding during this time. After you have used LILETTA for a while, the number of bleeding and spotting days is likely to lessen. For some women, menstrual periods will stop altogether. When LILETTA is removed, your menstrual periods will likely return to their former pattern. |
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Is it safe to breastfeed while using LILETTA?
You may use LILETTA when you are breastfeeding if more than 6 weeks have passed since you had your baby. If you are breastfeeding, LILETTA is not likely to affect the quality or amount of your breast milk or the health of your nursing baby. However, isolated cases of decreased milk production have been reported among women using progestin-only birth control pills. The risk of LILETTA becoming attached to (embedded) or going through the wall of the uterus is increased when LILETTA is placed in breastfeeding women. |
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Will LILETTA interfere with sexual intercourse?
You and your partner should not feel LILETTA during intercourse. LILETTA is placed in the uterus, not in the vagina. In some cases, your partner may feel the threads. If this occurs, or if you or your partner experience pain during sex, talk with your healthcare professional. |
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Can I have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure with LILETTA in place?
LILETTA should not interfere with imaging. |
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What are the possible side effects of LILETTA?
LILETTA can cause serious side effects, including:
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vaginal bacterial infection | yeast infection of the outer part of your vagina (vulvovaginal) | |
acne | headache | |
nausea or vomiting | pain during sex | |
abdominal pain | breast pain | |
pelvic pain | depression | |
weight increase | vaginal discharge | |
mood changes | anxiety | |
back pain | menstrual-like cramping | |
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Allergan at 1-800-678-1605. |
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After LILETTA has been inserted, when should I call my healthcare professional?
Call your healthcare professional if you have any concerns about LILETTA. Be sure to call if you:
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General information about the safe and effective use of LILETTA.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare professional for information about LILETTA that is written for health professionals. For more information, go to www.LILETTA.com or call 1-855-LILETTA (1-855-545-3882). |
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LILETTA® and its design are registered trademarks of Odyssea Pharma SPRL, an Allergan affiliate. Manufactured by: Odyssea Pharma, SPRL, Belgium An affiliated company of Allergan USA, Inc. Distributed by: Allergan USA, Inc. Irvine, CA 92612 Marketed by: Allergan USA, Inc. Medicines360 Irvine, CA 92612 San Francisco, CA 94111 © 2019 Allergan and Medicines360. All rights reserved. Allergan® and its design are trademarks of Allergan, Inc. |
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration 10/2019
V1.0PPI5858
LILETTA
levonorgestrel intrauterine device |
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Labeler - Allergan, Inc. (144796497) |
Mark Image Registration | Serial | Company Trademark Application Date |
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LILETTA 86608148 4836810 Live/Registered |
ODYSSEA PHARMA SPRL 2015-04-23 |
LILETTA 86407620 not registered Dead/Abandoned |
ALLERGAN SALES, LLC 2014-09-26 |
LILETTA 85823819 4756366 Live/Registered |
ODYSSEA PHARMA SPRL 2013-01-15 |