Xulane is a prescription transdermal (through-the-skin) combined hormonal contraceptive patch. It contains ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin and is used to prevent pregnancy.
Key points
- How it works: Delivers hormones through the skin to prevent ovulation and to alter cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus.
- How to use:
- Apply one patch to clean, dry skin on the buttock, abdomen, upper arm, or back (avoid breasts).
- Wear it for 7 days, then replace with a new patch on a different site for 3 weeks in a row.
- In week 4, no patch is worn to allow a withdrawal bleed.
- Press the patch flat and hold for about 10 seconds to ensure good contact.
- Do not apply to irritated or sunburned skin; avoid lotions/oils on the application site; rotate sites to reduce irritation.
- What to do if the patch falls off or is late:
- If it’s off for less than 24 hours, reattach and continue the cycle.
- If it’s off for 24 hours or more, or you’re late starting a new patch, you may need backup contraception for 7 days.
- Effectiveness and safety:
- Very effective when used correctly.
- Like all estrogen-containing methods, it carries a risk of blood clots (venous thromboembolism). The risk is higher in people who smoke, are older, have obesity, or have certain medical conditions. Discuss your personal risk with a clinician.
- Other possible risks: abnormal vaginal bleeding, breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, skin irritation at the patch site.
- Who should avoid Xulane (contraindications):
- Pregnancy or history of thromboembolic disorders (DVT/PE), active or history of certain blood clots.
- Certain cancers (e.g., estrogen-sensitive cancers), liver disease or liver tumors, uncontrolled high blood pressure, migraines with aura, certain heart or vascular conditions.
- Severe liver disease, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or a known sensitivity to the components.
- Breastfeeding in the early postpartum period (your clinician can advise).
- Drug interactions:
- Some medicines can reduce Xulane’s effectiveness (enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants, rifampin, certain HIV meds, St. John’s wort, etc.). If you take other prescriptions or supplements, check with a clinician.
- Side effects (common):
- Skin irritation at the patch site, breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, mood changes, and breakthrough bleeding.
- Storage and disposal:
- Store at room temperature, away from heat/light; keep in original packaging until use.
- After removal, fold the patch in half, adhesive sides together, and dispose of it safely out of reach of children.
If you’d like, tell me a bit about your situation (age, smoking status, migraines, recently postpartum, any medical history). I can tailor the overview (risks, who might benefit most, how it compares with other methods) and answer specific questions you have (for example, how to switch from a pill, or whether it’s right for you). This isn’t medical advice—talk with a healthcare provider to decide if Xulane is appropriate for you.