Pharmac funding for contraceptive implants

26 July 2010

Women wanting longer-term contraception will have a new funded option from 1 August, following Pharmac decision to fund the Jadelle implants (levonorgestrel 75mg).

The long-acting contraceptive implants are removable and can provide contraception for up to five years.

These add to the range of funded contraceptives that include hormonal contraceptive pills, intra-uterine devices and condoms. The implants are small rods, inserted just below the skin in the arm.

Pharmac's acting medical director Dilky Rasiah expects a range of women to take advantage of the implants.

"These could include women who are not ready to have children, or women who have completed their families, but don't want to have a surgical sterilisation," she says.

"For those women, the implants are more convenient because they provide contraception without having to remember to take a daily pill. However, like all hormonal contraceptives, they do have side-effects so they may not be right for everyone."

Dr Rasiah says women considering the contraceptive implants should discuss the options with their doctor.

"For women needing long-term contraception this is a good option. They receive up to five years' contraception for a lower cost. It's also a good deal for taxpayers. The implants cost no more per day than oral contraceptives, and our agreement with Bayer means that the devices for inserting the implants and training for clinicians are included in the cost."

Dr Rasiah says funding the implants will be a net saving to the health sector overall.

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