Mirena (Levonorgestrel intrauterine system): a successful novel drug delivery option in contraception

Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2009 Aug 10;61(10):808-12. doi: 10.1016/j.addr.2009.04.022. Epub 2009 May 13.

Abstract

This manuscript serves as a review of Mirena, the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) as a very successful drug delivery system. The LNG IUS has a very high contraceptive efficacy rate, and low rates of patient discontinuation. In addition to its contraceptive benefits, most users experience a decrease in menstrual bleeding over the 5 years of use. LNG IUS has also been used for management of menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, adenomyosis, and endometrial hyperplasia in some cases. The LNG IUS provides long term efficacy, high rates of compliance, rapid return to fertility, and minimal adverse effects during use.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intravaginal
  • Contraception*
  • Contraceptive Agents, Female / administration & dosage*
  • Contraceptive Agents, Female / adverse effects
  • Contraceptive Agents, Female / therapeutic use
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Female
  • Genital Diseases, Female / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Intrauterine Devices, Medicated*
  • Levonorgestrel / administration & dosage*
  • Levonorgestrel / adverse effects
  • Levonorgestrel / therapeutic use
  • Menstruation Disturbances / drug therapy
  • Patient Satisfaction

Substances

  • Contraceptive Agents, Female
  • Levonorgestrel