Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This contraceptive skin patch is employed to prevent pregnancy. It contains norelgestromin, a progestin and ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen. Hormones from the patch are absorbed into the body through the skin, where they function by inhibiting the complete development of a woman’s egg each month. Consequently, the egg becomes incapable of being fertilized by sperm, thereby preventing pregnancy. This patch introduces more estrogen into the bloodstream compared to oral birth control with an equivalent amount of estrogen.
Uses and Dosage
To ensure effectiveness, do not cut or damage the patch. Apply the patch to clean, dry skin on the upper outer arm, abdomen, buttock, or upper body where it won’t be rubbed by tight clothing. Avoid applying it to breasts or on red, cut, or irritated skin.
Refrain from using lotions, creams, oils, powders, or makeup at the patch site, as it may hinder proper adhesion or cause the patch to fall off.
For first-time users, apply the patch on the first Sunday after the onset of your menstrual period or on the first day of your period. If your period begins on a Sunday, start on that day. During the initial cycle, use a backup form of non-hormonal birth control (such as condoms or spermicide) for the first 7 days to prevent pregnancy until the medication becomes effective. If you start the patch on the first day of your period, no backup birth control is needed during the first week.
Change the patch weekly on the same day. Remove the used patch before applying a new one, and rotate application sites to prevent skin irritation. After wearing patches for 3 consecutive weeks, refrain from wearing one during week 4 to allow for your period. After the patch-free week, apply a new patch regardless of whether you have your period. If you don’t menstruate, consult your doctor. Avoid going more than 7 days without a patch to minimize the risk of pregnancy. Use a calendar to remind yourself when to change or leave off patches.
If the patch falls off, reapply it or replace it within 24 hours. If it’s not reapplied within this timeframe, or if you’re unsure how long it’s been off, start a new cycle by applying a new patch and using backup non-hormonal birth control for the next 7 days.
After removing each patch, fold it in half and discard it in the trash, away from children and pets. Do not flush it down the toilet.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist about transitioning from other forms of hormonal birth control to this product.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- breast tenderness and swelling
- nausea
- vomiting
- headache
- application site reactions where the patch is worn (skin irritation, redness, itching, swelling)
- abdominal pain
- painful menstruation
- menstrual cramps
- vaginal bleeding and menstrual disorders
- bloating
- mood changes
- anxiety
- fatigue
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- migraine
- itching
- vaginal yeast infection
- acne
- weight gain
- bloating
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- cough
- fainting
- anxiety
- apprehension
- swelling and warmth to either leg
- rapid heartrate
- fever
- bluish or gray color of the skin, nails, lips or around the eyes
- loss of vision
- bulging eyes
- double vision
- swelling in the eye (papilledema)
- blurry vision
- trouble walking
- difficulty speaking (and being understood)
- numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side
- weakness
- lightheadedness
- pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back
- pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders
Caution
- Before using this medication patch, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to ethinyl estradiol, norelgestromin, or other estrogens or progestins, or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blood clots, blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, abnormal breast exams, cancer, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, depression, diabetes, angioedema, gallbladder problems, severe headaches/migraines, heart problems, jaundice during pregnancy or while using hormonal birth control, liver disease, stroke, edema, thyroid problems, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- If you weigh more than 198 pounds (90 kilograms), this patch may not be as effective for you. Inform your doctor of your current weight and inquire about the best form of birth control for you.
- For individuals with diabetes, this medication may impact blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar regularly as directed and report any increased thirst or urination to your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet.
- Notify your doctor if you have recently had surgery, will be having surgery, or will be immobile for an extended period, as these circumstances elevate the risk of blood clots, particularly when using hormonal birth control. Your doctor may advise temporarily discontinuing this medication or taking special precautions.
- This product may cause melasma, resulting in blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin. Sunlight can exacerbate this effect, so limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
- Individuals who are nearsighted or wear contact lenses may experience vision problems or difficulty wearing contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor if you encounter these issues.
- If you are scheduled for an MRI test, inform the testing personnel that you are using this patch, as some patches may contain metals that could cause severe burns during the MRI. Consult your doctor regarding the need to remove the patch before the test and how to properly reapply it afterward.
- This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Following childbirth or pregnancy loss after the first 3 months, discuss reliable forms of birth control with your doctor and ascertain when it is safe to initiate birth control containing estrogen.
- This medication may reduce breast milk production and pass into breast milk, potentially causing adverse effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Xulane is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Xulane patch:
- 150 mcg / 35 mcg
FAQ
How well does Xulane work?
In clinical studies, Xulane was 99% effective at preventing pregnancy in people between the ages of 18 and 35 when used correctly.
Do I have to take my Xulane patch off when I go in the water?
No. You can wear your patch when you go in the water, like the pool or shower. After getting out of the water, just double check that your patch is still attached properly.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/xulane/what-is#faqs
- https://www.rxlist.com/xulane-drug.htm#side_effects
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19460-ethinyl-estradiol-norelgestromin-patches
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ethinyl-estradiol-and-norelgestromin-transdermal-route/description/drg-20062923
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-166145/xulane-transdermal/details
- https://www.drugs.com/xulane.html
