Liletta

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Contraindications

The use of LILETTA is contraindicated when one or more of the following conditions exist:

  • Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
  • For use as post-coital contraception (emergency contraception)
  • Congenital or acquired uterine anomaly, including fibroids, that distorts the uterine cavity
  • Acute pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or a history of PID unless there has been a subsequent intrauterine pregnancy
  • Postpartum endometritis or infected abortion in the past 3 months
  • Known or suspected uterine or cervical neoplasia
  • Known or suspected breast cancer or other progestin-sensitive cancer, now or in the past
  • Uterine bleeding of unknown etiology
  • Untreated acute cervicitis or vaginitis, including bacterial vaginosis, known chlamydial or gonococcal cervical infection, or other lower genital tract infections until infection is controlled
  • Acute liver disease or liver tumor (benign or malignant)
  • Conditions associated with increased susceptibility to pelvic infections
  • A previously inserted IUS that has not been removed
  • Hypersensitivity to any component of LILETTA

Undesirable effects

The following serious or otherwise important adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling:

  • Ectopic Pregnancy
  • Intrauterine Pregnancy
  • Group A Streptococcal Sepsis (GAS)
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or Endometritis
  • Perforation
  • Expulsion
  • Ovarian Cysts
  • Bleeding Pattern Alterations
Clinical Trial Experience

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 1,412 exposed for 1 year and 383 subjects who completed 3 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 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, and 5.3% had a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m². The data cover more than 22,000 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% users) are shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions in ≥ 5% of LILETTA Users in Phase 3 Clinical Study

System Organ Class/
Preferred Term
% LILETTA Subjects
(N = 1,751)
Vaginal infections 13.6%
Vulvovaginal infections 13.3%
Acne 12.3%
Headache or migraine 9.8%
Nausea or vomiting 7.9%
Dyspareunia 7.0%
Abdominal discomfort or pain 6.8%
Breast tenderness or pain 6.7%
Pelvic discomfort or pain 6.1%
Depression or depressed mood 5.4%
Mood changes 5.2%

In the contraceptive trial, 12.3% of LILETTA users discontinued prematurely due to an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reaction leading to discontinuation was expulsion (3.5%), bleeding complaints (a total of 1.5%). The next most common adverse reactions causing discontinuation were acne (1.3%), mood swings (1.3%), dysmenorrhea (0.6%), and uterine spasm (0.6%). Two women discontinued the clinical study due to PID and one due to endometritis.

In the clinical trial, serious adverse reactions included: suicidality and exacerbations of depression and bipolar disorder, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, and IUS perforation requiring a laparoscopic surgery.

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of other 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.

  • Hypersensitivity including rash, urticaria, and angioedema
  • Device Breakage

Therapeutic indications

LILETTA™ is indicated for prevention of pregnancy for up to 3 years. The system should be replaced after 3 years if continued use is desired.

Pharmacodynamic properties

LILETTA has mainly local progestogenic effects in the uterine cavity and cervix. High local concentrations of LNG lead to morphological changes including stromal pseudodecidualization, glandular atrophy, a leukocytic infiltration, and a decrease in glandular and stromal mitoses. Changes in the uterine endometrium may lead to alterations in the menstrual bleeding pattern.

In clinical trials with other LNG-releasing IUSs, ovulation was inhibited in some women but most cycles were ovulatory.

Pharmacokinetic properties

Absorption

Low doses of LNG are administered into the uterine cavity with the LILETTA intrauterine delivery system. The initial in vivo release rate is 18.6 μg/day and decreases to 16.3 μg/day at 1 year, 14.3 μg/day at 2 years, and 12.6 μg/day after 3 years.

In the phase 3 study, systemic LNG concentrations were assessed in a subset of subjects through Month 30 and in all subjects at Month 36. Plasma LNG concentrations following insertion of LILETTA are shown in Table 4.

Table 4: Plasma LNG Concentrations (mean ± SD, pg/mL) Following LILETTA Insertion

Initial (7 days)
(N = 40)
6 Months
(N = 36)
12 Months
(N = 33)
24 Months
(N = 29)
30 Months
(N = 9)
36 Months
(N=243)
252± 123 195 ± 69 170 ± 50 147 ± 46 133 ± 28 135 ± 51
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.

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, 5αtetrahydrolevonorgestrel and 16β-hydroxylevonorgestrel. LNG and its phase I metabolites are excreted primarily as glucuronide conjugates. Metabolic clearance rates may differ among individuals by severalfold, and this may account in part for wide individual variations in LNG concentrations seen in individuals using LNG–containing contraceptive products. 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. The elimination half-life of LNG after a single oral administration is approximately 13.9 ± 3.2 hours.

Date of revision of the text

February 2015

Name of the medicinal product

Liletta

Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

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. 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. Advise a woman of the potential risks if pregnancy occurs with LILETTA in place.

Qualitative and quantitative composition

Dosage Forms And Strengths

LILETTA is a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system consisting of a T-shaped polyethylene frame with a drug reservoir containing 52 mg levonorgestrel, packaged within a sterile inserter.

Storage And Handling

LILETTA (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system), containing 52 mg levonorgestrel, is packaged together with an inserter in a peelable pouch, and is available in a carton of one sterile unit. NDC # 52544-035-54.

LILETTA is supplied sterile. LILETTA is sterilized with ethylene oxide. Do not resterilize. For single use only. Do not use if the inner pouch is damaged or opened. Insert before the end of the month shown on the pouch. Store at 20 – 25°C (68 – 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15 – 30°C (59 – 86°F). Store pouch in outer carton until use to protect from light.

Manufactured by: Odyssea Pharma, Belgium an affiliated company of Actavis Pharma, inc. Distributed by: Actavis Pharma, inc. Parsippany, NJ 07054. Marketed by: Actavis Pharma, inc. Medicines360 Parsippany, NJ 07054 San Francisco, Ca 94111. Revised: February 2015

Special warnings and precautions for use

WARNINGS

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

PRECAUTIONS Ectopic Pregnancy

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 periods or if an amenorrheic woman starts bleeding. 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.

Tell women who choose LILETTA about the risks of ectopic pregnancy, including the loss of fertility. Teach them to recognize and report to their healthcare provider promptly any signs of ectopic pregnancy.

Intrauterine Pregnancy

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

In patients becoming pregnant with an IUS in place, septic abortion – with 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.

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.

Sepsis

Severe infection or sepsis, including Group A streptococcal sepsis (GAS), have been reported following insertion of other 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.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Or Endometritis

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. IUSs have been associated with an increased risk of PID, most likely due to organisms being introduced into the uterus during insertion.

In the clinical trial with LILETTA, pelvic infection was diagnosed in 0.6% of women. The infection was diagnosed as PID in 0.4% of women and as endometritis in 0.2% of women. About 1/3 of women diagnosed with PID developed the infection within a week of LILETTA insertion, while the remainder were diagnosed more than six months after insertion. The cases of endometritis had onset less than 40 days after LILETTA insertion.

Counsel women who receive LILETTA to notify a healthcare provider if they have complaints of lower abdominal or pelvic pain, odorous discharge, unexplained bleeding, fever, or genital lesions or sores. 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 also 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. In particular, ascertain whether the woman is at increased risk of infection (for example, leukemia, acquired immune deficiency syndrome [AIDS], IV drug abuse).

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, 7 of the 10 women who developed PID or endometritis were successfully treated without removal of LILETTA.

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

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 reduce contraceptive efficacy and result in pregnancy. The incidence of perforation during or following LILETTA insertion in the clinical trial, which excluded breastfeeding women, was 0.1%.

If perforation occurs, locate and remove LILETTA. 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.

A large post-marketing safety study with other IUSs demonstrated an increased risk of perforation in 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 postpartum period. Delay LILETTA insertion a minimum of six weeks or until involution is complete following a delivery or a second trimester abortion.

Expulsion

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 3.5% was reported, with a rate of 2.0% in nulliparous women and 5.6% in parous women. 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.

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 6 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.

Ovarian Cysts

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 3.4% of subjects using LILETTA, 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 choose to use LILETTA.

Bleeding Pattern Alterations

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 be increased and bleeding patterns may be irregular. 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, in 26% by the end of the second year of use, and in approximately 38% of users by the end of year 3. In the trial, 1.5% of LILETTA subjects discontinued due to bleeding complaints). Table 2 shows the bleeding and spotting days based on 28-day cycle equivalents.

Table 2: Mean Number of Bleeding and Spotting Days per 28-day Cycle Equivalent

28-day Cycle Equivalent Cycle 1
N=1,691
Cycle 4
N=1,525
Cycle 7
N=1,223
Cycle 13
N=791
Cycle 26
N=438
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 1.5 2.6 1.2 2.3 0.8 1.7
Number of spotting days 8.9 6.0 4.3 4.2 3.0 3.6 2.7 3.4 2.0 2.7
Note: Includes all LILETTA subjects.

In the LILETTA clinical trial, 248 of 255 (97.3%) of women evaluated experienced menses within 3 months after LILETTA removal.

If a significant change in bleeding develops during prolonged use, take appropriate diagnostic measures to rule out endometrial pathology. Consider the possibility of pregnancy if menstruation does not occur within six weeks of the onset of a previous menstruation. Once pregnancy has been excluded, repeated pregnancy tests are generally not necessary in amenorrheic women unless indicated, for example, by other signs of pregnancy or by pelvic pain.

Breast Cancer

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.

Spontaneous reports of breast cancer have been received during postmarketing experience with another LNG-releasing IUS. Observational studies have not provided consistent evidence of an increased risk of breast cancer with use of a LNG-releasing IUS.

Clinical Considerations For Use and Removal

Obtain a complete medical and social history, including partner status, to determine conditions that might influence the selection of an IUS for contraception.

Because irregular bleeding/spotting is common during the first months of LILETTA use, exclude endometrial pathology (polyps or cancer) prior to the insertion of LILETTA in women with persistent or uncharacteristic bleeding.

Special attention must be given to ascertaining whether the woman is at increased risk of infection (for example, 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.

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:

  • Coagulopathy or use of anticoagulants
  • Migraine, focal migraine with asymmetrical visual loss or other symptoms indicating transient cerebral ischemia
  • Exceptionally severe headache
  • Marked increase of blood pressure
  • Severe arterial disease such as stroke or myocardial infarction

In addition, consider removing LILETTA if any of the following conditions arise during use :

  • Uterine or cervical malignancy
  • Jaundice

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, expelled or perforated the uterus). Exclude pregnancy and verify the location of LILETTA, for example, by sonography, by X-ray, or by gentle exploration of the cervical canal with a suitable instrument. 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.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Information

LILETTA is MR Safe.

Patient Counseling Information Information For Patients

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).

  • Advise the patient that this product does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Inform the patient about the risks of ectopic pregnancy, including the loss of fertility. Teach her to recognize and report to her healthcare provider promptly any symptoms of ectopic pregnancy.
  • Counsel the patient that if pregnancy occurs while using LILETTA:
    • LILETTA will likely need to be removed because leaving it in place may increase the risk of spontaneous abortion and preterm labor; however, removal of LILETTA or probing of the uterus may also result in spontaneous abortion.
    • Septic abortion may occur. Warn her that if LILETTA cannot be removed or she chooses not to have it removed, there may be an increased risk of miscarriage, sepsis, premature labor, and premature delivery.
  • Counsel the patient that severe infection or sepsis, including Group A streptococcal sepsis (GAS), can occur within the first few days after LILETTA is inserted. Instruct her to contact a healthcare provider immediately if she develops severe pain or fever shortly after LILETTA is inserted.
  • Inform the patient about the possibility of PID or endometritis and that these infections can cause tubal damage leading to ectopic pregnancy or infertility, or infrequently can necessitate hysterectomy, or cause death. Teach the patient to recognize and report to her healthcare provider promptly any symptoms of PID, including development of menstrual disorders (prolonged or heavy bleeding), unusual vaginal discharge, abdominal or pelvic pain or tenderness, dyspareunia, chills, and fever.
  • Inform the patient that perforation may occur, most often during insertion, although the perforation may not be detected until sometime later. Counsel her that if perforation occurs, LILETTA will have to be located and removed. Surgery may be required. Inform her that delayed detection or removal of LILETTA in case of perforation may result in migration of the IUS outside the uterine cavity, adhesions, peritonitis, intestinal perforations, intestinal obstruction, abscesses, and erosion of adjacent viscera.
  • Review the signs and symptoms of LILETTA expulsion with the patient. Counsel the patient on how she can check that the threads still protrude from her cervix, and not to pull on them. Inform her that there is no contraceptive protection if LILETTA is displaced or expelled.
  • Counsel the patient regarding the risk of ovarian cysts and that cysts can cause clinical symptoms including pelvic pain, abdominal pain or dyspareunia and infrequently will need surgery.
  • Counsel the patient that irregular or prolonged bleeding and spotting, and/or cramps may occur during the first three to six months after insertion. If her symptoms continue or are severe, she should report them to her healthcare provider.
  • Inform the patient that LILETTA is MR Safe and that it is safe for her to have an MRI with LILETTA in place.
  • Instruct the patient to contact her healthcare provider if she experiences any of the following:
    • A stroke or heart attack
    • Very severe or migraine headaches
    • Unexplained fever
    • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, as these may be signs of serious liver problems
    • Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
    • Pelvic pain or pain during sex
    • She or her partner becomes HIV positive
    • Possible exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
    • Unusual vaginal discharge or genital sores
    • Severe vaginal bleeding or bleeding that lasts a long time, or if she misses a menstrual period
    • Inability to feel LILETTA's threads

Complete the Follow-up Reminder Card and give it to the patient.

Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy 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. 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. Advise a woman of the potential risks if pregnancy occurs with LILETTA in place.

Lactation 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. There are no reports of adverse effects in breastfed infants with maternal use of progestin-only contraceptives. Isolated cases of decreased milk production have been reported with another LNG-releasing IUS. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for LILETTA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from LILETTA or from the underlying maternal condition.

Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy of LILETTA have been established in females of reproductive age. Efficacy is expected to be the same for postpubertal females under the age of 16 as for users 16 years and older. Use of this product before menarche is not indicated.

Geriatric Use

LILETTA has not been studied in women over age 65 and is not indicated for postmenopausal women.

Hepatic Impairment

No studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of hepatic disease on the disposition of LNG released from LILETTA.

Renal Impairment

No studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of renal disease on the disposition of LNG released from LILETTA.

Obesity

The safety and efficacy of LILETTA have been evaluated in overweight, obese, and morbidly obese patients. There was no apparent effect of BMI or body weight on contraceptive efficacy.

Dosage (Posology) and method of administration

LILETTA contains 52 mg of levonorgestrel (LNG). Initially, LNG is released at a rate of 18.6 mcg/day. This rate decreases progressively to approximately 16.3 mcg/day at 1 year, 14.3 mcg/day at 2 years, and 12.6 mcg/day at 3 years after insertion. The average in vivo release rate of LNG is approximately 15.6 mcg/day over a period of 3 years.

LILETTA can be removed at any time but must be removed by the end of the third year. LILETTA can be replaced at the time of removal with a new LILETTA if continued contraceptive protection is desired.

Insertion Instructions

LILETTA (Figure 1) is provided in a sterile pouch and is inserted into the uterine cavity with the provided inserter (Figure 2) by carefully following the insertion instructions. Use strict aseptic techniques throughout the insertion procedure.

Insertion

Figure 1 : LILETTA Intrauterine Contraceptive System (IUS)

Figure 2: LILETTA IUS with Inserter

LILETTA should only be inserted by a trained healthcare provider. Healthcare providers should become thoroughly familiar with the product, product educational materials, product insertion instructions, prescribing information, and patient labeling before attempting insertion of LILETTA.

  • Obtain a complete medical and social history to determine conditions that might influence the selection of a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LILETTA) for contraception. If indicated, perform a physical examination and appropriate tests for genital or sexually transmitted infections.
  • Check the expiration date on the box before opening it. Do not insert LILETTA after the expiration date.
  • Visually inspect the packaging (sealed pouch) containing LILETTA to verify that the packaging has not been damaged (e.g., torn, punctured, etc.). If the packaging has any visual damage that could compromise sterility, do not use the unit for insertion.
  • Ensure that the patient understands the contents of the Patient Information Booklet and obtain consent. A sample consent form that includes the lot number is on the last page of the Patient Information Booklet.
  • Complete the pelvic examination, speculum placement, tenaculum placement, and sounding of the uterus before opening the LILETTA pouch.
  • Do not open the pouch to insert LILETTA if the cervix is unable to be properly visualized, if the uterus cannot be adequately instrumented (during sounding), or if the uterus sounds to less than 5.5 cm.
Timing of Insertion

Refer to Table 1 for instructions on when to start use of LILETTA.

Table 1: When to Insert LILETTA

Starting LILETTA in women not currently using hormonal or intrauterine contraception
  • LILETTA can be inserted any time the provider can be reasonably certain the woman is not pregnant. Consider the possibility of ovulation and conception prior to initiation of this product.
  • If LILETTA is not inserted during the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle, a barrier method of contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) should be used or the patient should abstain from vaginal intercourse for 7 days to prevent pregnancy.
Switching to LILETTA from an oral, transdermal or vaginal hormonal contraceptive
  • LILETTA may be inserted at any time.
    • May be inserted during the hormone-free interval of the previous method
    • If inserted during active use of the previous method, continue the previous method after LILETTA insertion for seven days or until the end of the current cycle.
  • If using continuous hormonal contraception, discontinue the method seven days after LILETTA insertion.
Switching to LILETTA from an injectable progestin contraceptive
  • LILETTA may be inserted at any time; a barrier method of contraception (such as condoms and spermicide) should also be used for 7 days if LILETTA is inserted as instructed more than 3 months (13 weeks) after the last injection.
Switching to LILETTA from a contraceptive implant or another IUS
  • Insert LILETTA on the same day the implant or IUS is removed.
  • LILETTA may be inserted at any time during the menstrual cycle.
Inserting LILETTA after abortion or miscarriage
  • First-trimester
  • LILETTA may be inserted immediately after a first-trimester abortion or miscarriage.
  • Second-trimester
  • Do not insert LILETTA until a minimum of 6 weeks after second trimester abortion or miscarriage, or until the uterus is fully involuted. If involution is delayed, wait until involution is complete before insertion.
  • If the woman has not yet had a period, consider the possibility of ovulation and conception occurring prior to insertion of LILETTA. LILETTA can be inserted any time the provider can be reasonably certain the woman is not pregnant.
  • If LILETTA is not inserted during the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle, a barrier method of contraception should be used or the patient should abstain from vaginal intercourse for 7 days to prevent pregnancy.
Inserting LILETTA after Childbirth
  • Do not insert LILETTA until a minimum of 6 weeks after delivery, or until the uterus is fully involuted. If involution is delayed, wait until involution is complete before insertion.
  • If the woman has not yet had a period, consider the possibility of ovulation and conception occurring prior to insertion of LILETTA. LILETTA can be inserted any time the provider can be reasonably certain the woman is not pregnant.
  • If LILETTA is not inserted during the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle, a barrier method of contraception should be used or the patient should abstain from vaginal intercourse for 7 days to prevent pregnancy.
  • There appears to be an increased risk of perforation in lactating women.
Planning for Insertion
  • Ensure all needed items for LILETTA insertion are readily available:
    • Gloves
    • Speculum
    • Sterile uterine sound
    • Sterile tenaculum
    • Antiseptic solution
    • LILETTA with inserter in sealed pouch
    • Sterile, blunt-tipped scissors
    • Additional items that may be useful could include:
      • Local anesthesia, needle, and syringe
      • Os finder and/or cervical dilators
      • Ultrasound with abdominal probe
  • Exclude pregnancy and confirm that there are no other contraindications to the insertion and use of LILETTA.
  • Follow the insertion instructions exactly as described in order to ensure proper insertion.
  • If you encounter cervical stenosis at any time during uterine sounding or LILETTA insertion, use cervical dilators, not force, to overcome resistance. If necessary, dilation, sounding, and insertion may be performed with ultrasound guidance.
  • Insertion may be associated with some pain and/or bleeding or vasovagal reactions (e.g., diaphoresis, syncope, bradycardia, or seizure), especially in patients with a predisposition to these conditions. Consider administering analgesics prior to insertion.

Use aseptic technique during the entire insertion procedure. Loading and inserting LILETTA does not require sterile gloves. If not using sterile gloves, complete all steps for loading the IUS (Steps 1-7) inside the pouch. Maintain sterility during LILETTA insertion; do not touch LILETTA or parts of any sterile instrument that will pierce tissue (e.g., a tenaculum on the cervix) or go into the uterine cavity.

Preparation for Insertion
  • With the patient comfortably in lithotomy position, do a bimanual exam to establish the size, shape, and position of the uterus and to evaluate any signs of uterine infection.
  • Gently insert a speculum to visualize the cervix.
  • Thoroughly cleanse the cervix and vagina with antiseptic solution.
  • Administer cervical anesthetic, if needed.
  • Apply a tenaculum to the cervix and use gentle traction to align the cervical canal with the uterine cavity. If the uterus is retroverted, it may be more appropriate to grasp the lower lip of the cervix. Keep the tenaculum in position and maintain gentle traction on the cervix throughout the insertion procedure.
  • Carefully sound the uterus to measure its depth.
  • The uterus should sound to a depth of at least 5.5 cm. Insertion of LILETTA into a uterine cavity that sounds to less than 5.5 cm may increase the incidence of expulsion, bleeding, pain, perforation, and possibly pregnancy. LILETTA should not be inserted if the uterus sounds to less than 5.5 cm.
  • After ascertaining that the patient is appropriate for LILETTA, open the pouch containing LILETTA.
Insertion Procedure

Loading the IUS into the Inserter

Step 1

Place the LILETTA pouch on a flat surface with the clear side of the pouch facing up (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Place the LILETTA pouch on a flat surface.

  • Open the sterile LILETTA pouch from the bottom (end with the rod ring) approximately 1/3 of the way until the lower ends of the IUS threads, the rod, and the insertion tube are exposed (Figure 4).

If using sterile gloves, you can open the pouch completely before putting on the sterile gloves.

Figure 4: Release the threads from the flange and insert the rod.

Step 2

  • Pull back the blue threads to dislodge them from the flange.
  • Be careful to not pull the IUS down at the same time (Figure 4).

Step 3

  • Hold the exposed end of the insertion tube containing the IUS (Figure 4) while keeping the end of the insertion tube with the IUS inside the packaging.
  • Remove the rod from the pouch.
  • Do not touch the end of the rod that will go into the insertion tube.
  • Place the rod into the insertion tube (alongside the IUS threads) to about the 5 cm marking (Figure 4).

Step 4

  • While holding the insertion tube and the rod firmly between the fingers and thumb of one hand, pull downward on both blue threads with the other hand to draw the IUS into the insertion tube (Figure 5).
  • The arms of the IUS should be kept in a horizontal plane, parallel to the flat side of the flange (refer to Figure 4).
  • Do not pull the IUS all of the way through the insertion tube; only pull the threads until the IUS is loaded at the top of the insertion tube. Note: If you accidentally remove the IUS completely out of the insertion tube, do not use or attempt to re-load.

Figure 5: Pull on the threads to pull the IUS into the tube.

Figure 6: Adjust the Flange.

Step 5

  • Hold the insertion tube and the rod firmly with one hand.
  • With the other hand, adjust the position of the flange (through the sterile packaging if not using sterile gloves) by moving the tube to correspond to the sound measurement (Figure 6).
  • The top end of the flange should be at the measurement corresponding to the sounded depth of the uterus.

Step 6

  • Final IUS positioning: position the IUS in the tube so that the knobs of the lateral arms are opposed to each other and protrude slightly above the tip of the insertion tube to form a hemispherical dome (Figure 7).
  • Hold the tube at its proximal end between your fingers and thumb of one hand.
  • With the other hand, while pulling on the blue threads, slowly advance the rod forward to adjust the position of the IUS.
  • When the IUS tips are in the correct position (slightly protruding), pinch and hold the proximal end of the tube firmly to maintain rod position.
  • The proximal end of the insertion tube will be approximately at the top of the first indent on the rod (Figure 7).

Figure 7: Final IUS Positioning

ENSURE A HEMISPHERICAL DOME IS ACHIEVED.

When the IUS is in the correct position, the lower end of the tube will be aligned approximately at the upper edge of the upper indent on the rod.

Step 7

Check to make sure the IUS is correctly loaded. You should note the following:

  • The IUS is completely within the insertion tube with the knobs of the arms forming a hemispherical dome at the top of the tube.
  • The top of the rod is touching the bottom of the IUS.
  • The blue threads are hanging through the end of the insertion tube.
  • The flange is marking the depth of the uterus based on pre-insertion sounding.

Step 8

Remove the loaded IUS insertion tube from the pouch while holding the lower end of the tube firmly between your fingers and thumb.

If not using sterile gloves, do not touch the flange and any part of the insertion tube above the flange during this step and through the IUS insertion procedure.

IUS Insertion into the Uterus

Step 1

  • Apply gentle traction on the tenaculum to straighten the alignment of the cervical canal and uterine cavity.
  • While still firmly pinching the proximal end of the insertion tube to maintain the IUS in the correct position (Hand A), slide the loaded IUS insertion tube through the cervical canal until the upper edge of the flange is approximately 1.5 – 2.0 cm from the cervix (Figure 8).
  • DO NOT advance flange to the cervix at this step.
  • DO NOT force the inserter. If necessary, dilate the cervical canal.

Figure 8: While holding the rod and the tube, advance into the uterine cavity. Advance to 1.5 – 2.0 cm from the cervix.

Figure 9: Hold the rod still and pull back the tube until the second indent on the rod.

Step 2

  • Release hold on the tenaculum.
  • Hold the insertion tube with the fingers of one hand (Hand A) and the rod with the fingers of the other hand (Hand B).
  • Hold the rod still (Hand B), relax the firmness of the pinch on the tube, and pull the insertion tube back with Hand A to the edge of the second indent of the rod (Figure 9).
  • This will allow the IUS arms to open in the lower uterine segment.

Step 3

  • Wait 10 – 15 seconds for the arms of the IUS to fully open.

Step 4

  • Apply gentle traction with the tenaculum before advancing the IUS.
  • With Hand A still holding the proximal end of the tube, advance both the insertion tube and rod simultaneously up to the uterine fundus (Figure 10). You will feel slight resistance when the IUS is at the fundus.
  • The flange should be touching the cervix when the IUS reaches the uterine fundus.

Note: Fundal positioning is important to prevent expulsion.

Figure 10: After 10 – 15 seconds, advance to the fundus while holding both the rod and the tube.

Step 5

  • Hold the rod still (Hand B) while pulling the insertion tube back with Hand A to the ring of the rod (Figure 11).

Figure 11: Hold the rod still and pull back the tube to the ring on the rod.

Step 6

  • While holding the inserter tube with Hand A, withdraw the rod from the insertion tube all of the way out to prevent the rod from catching on the knot at the lower end of the IUS.

Note: Ensure the tube is held firmly in place until the rod is completely pulled outside of the tube as there will be some slight resistance while removing the rod from the tube.

Step 7

  • Completely remove the insertion tube.

Step 8

  • Use blunt-tipped sharp scissors to cut the IUS threads perpendicular to the thread length, leaving about 3 cm outside of the cervix (Figure 12). Note: Cutting threads at an angle may leave sharp ends.
  • Do not apply tension or pull on the threads when cutting to prevent displacing the IUS.

Figure 12: Cut the threads about 3 cm from the cervix.

Insertion of LILETTA is now complete.

Important information to consider during or after insertion:

  • If you suspect the IUS is not in the correct position:
    • Check insertion with an ultrasound or other appropriate radiologic test.
    • If incorrect insertion is suspected, remove LILETTA. A removed LILETTA must not be reinserted.
Difficult insertion
  • If insertion is difficult because the uterus cannot be appropriately instrumented, the following measures can be considered:
    • Use of cervical anesthesia to make sounding and manipulation more tolerable.
    • Use of dilators to dilate the cervix if needed to allow passage of the sound.
    • Abdominal ultrasound guidance during dilation and/or insertion.
    • If there is clinical concern, exceptional pain, or bleeding during or after insertion, take appropriate steps, such as physical examination and ultrasound, immediately to exclude perforation.
Patient Counseling And Record-Keeping
  • Keep a copy of the consent form and LILETTA lot number for your records.
  • Counsel the patient on what to expect following LILETTA insertion. Give her the Patient Information Booklet, which includes the website address (www.LILETTA.com). Discuss expected bleeding patterns with LILETTA use. Review the signs and symptoms of LILETTA expulsion.
  • Prescribe analgesics, if indicated.
Patient Follow-Up

Re-examine and evaluate patients 4 to 6 weeks after insertion and once a year thereafter, or more frequently if clinically indicated.

Removal Of LILETTA Timing of Removal
  • If pregnancy is desired, LILETTA can be removed at any time.
  • If pregnancy is not desired, LILETTA can be removed at any time; however, a contraception method should be started prior to removal of LILETTA. Counsel your patient that if she has intercourse in the week prior to removal without use of a backup contraceptive method, she is at risk of pregnancy.
  • LILETTA should be removed after 3 years. LILETTA can be replaced at the time of removal with a new LILETTA if continued contraceptive protection is desired.
Planning for Removal
  • Ensure all needed items for LILETTA removal are readily available:
    • Gloves
    • Speculum
    • Sterile forceps
    • Additional items that may be required could include:
      • Local anesthetic, needle, and syringe
      • Os finder and/or cervical dilators
      • Ultrasound with abdominal probe
      • Sterile tenaculum
      • Antiseptic solution
      • Long, narrow forceps
  • Removal may be associated with some pain and/or bleeding or vasovagal reactions (e.g., syncope, bradycardia, or seizure), especially in patients with a predisposition to these conditions.
  • After removal of LILETTA, examine the system to ensure that it is intact.
Removal Instructions
  • With the patient comfortably in lithotomy position, place a speculum and visualize the cervix.
  • When the threads of LILETTA are visible:
    • Remove the IUS by applying gentle traction on the threads with forceps (Figure 13).
    • The arms of the device will fold upward as it is withdrawn from the uterus.
    • If the IUS cannot be removed with traction on the threads, perform an ultrasound examination to confirm location of the IUS, including assessment for partial or total perforation. If the IUS is in the uterus, use a long, narrow forceps to grasp LILETTA. Consider use of a tenaculum, cervical anesthesia, cervical dilators, and/or ultrasound guidance as needed.
  • If the threads of LILETTA are not visible:
    • Determine location of the IUS by ultrasound examination.
    • If the IUS is in the uterine cavity, use a long, narrow forceps (e.g., Alligator forceps) to grasp LILETTA. Consider use of a tenaculum, cervical anesthesia, cervical dilators, and/or ultrasound guidance as needed. If LILETTA cannot be removed using the above techniques, consider hysteroscopic evaluation for removal.
    • If the IUS is not in the uterine cavity, consider an abdominal x-ray or CT scan to evaluate if the IUS is in the abdominal cavity. Consider laparoscopic evaluation for removal, as clinically indicated.

Figure 13: Removal of LILETTA

Continuation Of Contraception After Removal
  • If pregnancy is not desired and if a woman wishes to continue using LILETTA, a new system can be inserted immediately after removal any time during the cycle.
  • If a patient with regular cycles wants to start a different birth control method, time the removal and initiation of a new method to ensure continuous contraception. Either remove LILETTA during the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle and start the new method or start the new method at least 7 days prior to removing LILETTA if removal is to occur at other times during the cycle.
  • If a patient with irregular cycles or amenorrhea wants to start a different birth control method, start the new method at least 7 days before LILETTA removal.
  • If LILETTA is removed but no other contraceptive method has already been started, the new contraceptive method can be started on the day LILETTA is removed. The patient should use a backup barrier method of contraception (e.g., condoms and spermicide) or abstain from vaginal intercourse for 7 days to prevent pregnancy.

Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

SIDE EFFECTS

The following serious or otherwise important adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling:

  • Ectopic Pregnancy
  • Intrauterine Pregnancy
  • Group A Streptococcal Sepsis (GAS)
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or Endometritis
  • Perforation
  • Expulsion
  • Ovarian Cysts
  • Bleeding Pattern Alterations
Clinical Trial Experience

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 1,412 exposed for 1 year and 383 subjects who completed 3 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 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, and 5.3% had a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m². The data cover more than 22,000 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% users) are shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Adverse Reactions in ≥ 5% of LILETTA Users in Phase 3 Clinical Study

System Organ Class/
Preferred Term
% LILETTA Subjects
(N = 1,751)
Vaginal infections 13.6%
Vulvovaginal infections 13.3%
Acne 12.3%
Headache or migraine 9.8%
Nausea or vomiting 7.9%
Dyspareunia 7.0%
Abdominal discomfort or pain 6.8%
Breast tenderness or pain 6.7%
Pelvic discomfort or pain 6.1%
Depression or depressed mood 5.4%
Mood changes 5.2%

In the contraceptive trial, 12.3% of LILETTA users discontinued prematurely due to an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reaction leading to discontinuation was expulsion (3.5%), bleeding complaints (a total of 1.5%). The next most common adverse reactions causing discontinuation were acne (1.3%), mood swings (1.3%), dysmenorrhea (0.6%), and uterine spasm (0.6%). Two women discontinued the clinical study due to PID and one due to endometritis.

In the clinical trial, serious adverse reactions included: suicidality and exacerbations of depression and bipolar disorder, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, and IUS perforation requiring a laparoscopic surgery.

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of other 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.

  • Hypersensitivity including rash, urticaria, and angioedema
  • Device Breakage
DRUG INTERACTIONS

No drug-drug interaction studies have been conducted with LILETTA.

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.