Is annovera effective?

What are the key findings on Annovera's effectiveness?

Annovera is a hormonal contraceptive implant that is designed to be used for 1 year. According to its manufacturer, a clinical trial involving 1,225 subjects found that Annovera had an efficacy rate of 98.8% in preventing pregnancy over 1 year of use. This is comparable to other long-acting reversible contraceptives like IUDs [1].

How does Annovera compare to other contraceptive methods?

Compared to other contraceptive methods, Annovera's efficacy rate is lower than that of some intrauterine devices (IUDs), such as the Mirena IUD, which has an efficacy rate of 99.8% [2]. However, Annovera's effectiveness is on par with other hormonal contraceptives like the NuvaRing, which has an efficacy rate of 98.8% [3].

What are the potential risks and side effects associated with Annovera?

Like any contraceptive method, Annovera can cause side effects, such as vaginal discharge, breast tenderness, and headache [1]. However, a review of clinical trial data found that the incidence of these side effects was generally low. Additionally, Annovera has been shown to cause fewer side effects compared to some other hormonal contraceptives.

When does exclusivity for Annovera expire?

The patent for Annovera expires in 2031. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks pharmaceutical patents, Annovera's patent expires on December 23, 2031 [4].

Sources:

[1] ClinicalTrials.gov. Annovera: Efficacy, Safety, and Acceptability in Women.

[2] FDA. Mirena Label.

[3] FDA. NuvaRing Label.

[4] DrugPatentWatch.com. Annovera (Segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol vaginal system) [4]