Implanon and Alcohol Interaction
Implanon and Alcohol
Implanon generic name etonogestrel is a hormone that prevents ovulation which is the release of an egg from an ovary by causing changes in the cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
It is used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. The Implanon implant is a small plastic rod that is implanted into the skin of the upper arm and the medicine is released slowly into the body. It can remain in place and provide contraception protection for as long as 3 years.
It is suggested that moderate alcohol consumption while using this drug.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.
I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.
Do not use Implanon if you are pregnant, plan to be so, or are breast feeding or have a history of stroke or blood clot, history of breast cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease, liver cancer. Note if you smoke or are over 35 you will increase your risk blood clots, stroke or heart attack while using this drug.
Before using this drug advise your physician if you are allergic to this drug, any other drug or substance, have an ovarian cyst, high blood pressure, heart disease, congestive heart failure, high cholesterol, are overweight, history of depression, gallbladder disease, diabetes, seizure or epilepsy.
Side Effects
Less serious side effects are pain, numbness or tingling, minor bleeding or scarring at implant site, breast pain, acne, freckles or darkening of facial hair, menstrual cramps, changes in menstrual pattern, increased hair growth, loss of scalp hair, weight gain, nausea, mild stomach pain, vaginal itching or discharge, headache, back pain, nervousness, dizziness, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough or problems with contact lens. If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects sudden numb or weak on one side of the body, severe pain or cramping in your pelvic area, sudden headache, confusion, pain behind the eyes, vision speech or balance problems, chest pain, heavy feeling with the pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling, swelling in the hands, ankles or feet, jaundice or symptoms of depression. If these occur get emergency medical help.
Implanon and Alcohol Implanon and alcohol Implanon and alcohol This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
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