SPL PATIENT PACKAGE INSERT SECTION.


Patient InformationNuvaRing(R) (NEW-vah-ring)(etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring)What is the most important information should know about NuvaRingDo not use NuvaRing if you smoke cigarettes and are over 35 years old. Smoking increases your risk of serious cardiovascular side effects (heart and blood vessel problems) from combination hormonal contraceptives (CHCs), including death from heart attack, blood clots or stroke. This risk increases with age and the number of cigarettes you smoke.Hormonal birth control methods help to lower the chances of becoming pregnant. They do not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections.What is NuvaRingNuvaRing (NEW-vah-ring) is flexible birth control vaginal ring used to prevent pregnancy.NuvaRing contains combination of progestin and estrogen, kinds of female hormones. Birth control methods that contain both an estrogen and progestin are called combination hormonal contraceptives (CHCs). How well does NuvaRing workYour chance of getting pregnant depends on how well you follow the directions for using NuvaRing. The better you follow the directions, the less chance you have of getting pregnant.Based on the results of US clinical study, approximately to women out of 100 women may get pregnant during the first year they use NuvaRing.The following chart shows the chance of getting pregnant for women who use different methods of birth control. Each box on the chart contains list of birth control methods that are similar in effectiveness. The most effective methods are at the top of the chart. The box on the bottom of the chart shows the chance of getting pregnant for women who do not use birth control and are trying to get pregnant.Who should not use NuvaRingDo not use NuvaRing if you:smoke and are over 35 years oldhave or have had blood clots in your arms, legs, eyes, or lungs have an inherited problem with your blood that makes it clot more than normalhave had strokehave had heart attackhave certain heart valve problems or heart rhythm problems that can cause blood clots to form in the hearthave high blood pressure that medicine cant controlhave diabetes with kidney, eye, nerve, or blood vessel damagehave certain kinds of severe migraine headaches with aura, numbness, weakness, or changes in vision, or have any migraine headaches if you are over age 35have liver disease, including liver tumorstake any Hepatitis drug combination containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir. This may increase levels of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the bloodhave unexplained vaginal bleedingare pregnant or think you may be pregnant. NuvaRing is not for pregnant women.have or have had breast cancer or any cancer that is sensitive to female hormonesare allergic to etonogestrel, ethinyl estradiol or any of the ingredients in NuvaRing. See the list of ingredients in NuvaRing at the end of this leaflet.Hormonal birth control methods may not be good choice for you if you have ever had jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) caused by pregnancy or related to previous use of hormonal birth control.Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any of the conditions listed above. Your healthcare provider can suggest another method of birth control.What should tell my healthcare provider before using NuvaRingBefore you use NuvaRing tell your healthcare provider if you:have any medical conditionssmokeare pregnant or think you are pregnantrecently had babyrecently had miscarriage or abortionhave family history of breast cancerhave or have had breast nodules, fibrocystic disease, an abnormal breast x-ray, or abnormal mammogramuse tampons and have history of toxic shock syndromehave been diagnosed with depressionhave had liver problems including jaundice during pregnancyhave or have had elevated cholesterol or triglycerideshave or have had gallbladder, liver, heart, or kidney diseasehave diabeteshave history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) caused by pregnancy (also called cholestasis of pregnancy)have history of scanty or irregular menstrual periodshave any condition that makes the vagina become irritated easilyhave or have had high blood pressurehave or have had migraines or other headaches or seizuresare scheduled for surgery. NuvaRing may increase your risk of blood clots after surgery. You should stop using NuvaRing at least weeks before you have surgery and not restart it until at least weeks after your surgery.are scheduled for any laboratory tests. Certain blood tests may be affected by hormonal birth control methods.are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Hormonal birth control methods that contain estrogen, like NuvaRing, may decrease the amount of milk you make. small amount of hormones from NuvaRing may pass into your breast milk. Consider another non-hormonal method of birth control until you are ready to stop breastfeeding.have (or have ever had) an allergic reaction while using NuvaRing, including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing (anaphylaxis and/or angioedema). Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines and herbal products you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.Some medicines and herbal products may make hormonal birth control less effective, including, but not limited to: certain anti-seizure medicines (such as barbiturates, carbamazepine, felbamate, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, rufinamide and topiramate)medicine to treat fungal infections (griseofulvin)certain combinations of HIV medicines, (such as nelfinavir, ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, (fos)amprenavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and tipranavir/ritonavir)certain hepatitis (HCV) medicines (such as boceprevir and telaprevir)non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (such as efavirenz and nevirapine)medicine to treat tuberculosis (such as rifampicin and rifabutin)medicine to treat high blood pressure in the vessels of the lung (bosentan)medicine to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (aprepitant)St Johns wortUse an additional barrier contraceptive method (such as male condom with spermicide) when you take medicines that may make NuvaRing less effective. Since the effect of another medicine on NuvaRing may last up to 28 days after stopping the medicine, it is necessary to use the additional barrier contraceptive method for that long to help prevent you from becoming pregnant. While using NuvaRing, you should not use certain female barrier contraceptive methods such as vaginal diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom as your back-up method of birth control because NuvaRing may interfere with the correct placement and position of diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom.Some medicines and grapefruit juice may increase the level of ethinyl estradiol in your blood if used together, including:the pain reliever acetaminophenascorbic acid (vitamin C)medicines that affect how your liver breaks down other medicines (such as itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, clarithromycin, erythromycin, and diltiazem)certain HIV medicines (atazanavir/ritonavir and indinavir)non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (such as etravirine)medicines to lower cholesterol such as atorvastatin and rosuvastatinHormonal birth control methods may interact with lamotrigine, medicine used for seizures. This may increase the risk of seizures, so your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dose of lamotrigine.Women on thyroid replacement therapy may need increased doses of thyroid hormone.Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if you take any of the medicines listed above. Know the medicines you take. Keep list of them to show your doctor and pharmacist when you get new medicine.How should use NuvaRingRead the Instructions for Use at the end of this Patient Information that comes with your NuvaRing for information about the right way to use NuvaRing. Use NuvaRing exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.NuvaRing is used in 4-week cycle. Insert NuvaRing in the vagina and keep it in place for weeks (21 days).Regularly check that NuvaRing is in your vagina (for example, before and after intercourse) to ensure that you are protected from pregnancy. Remove the NuvaRing for 1-week break (7 days). During the 1-week break (7 days), you will usually have your menstrual period. Note: Insert and remove NuvaRing on the same day of the week and at the same time: For example, if you insert your NuvaRing on Monday at 8:00 am, you should remove it on the Monday weeks later at 8:00 am.After your 1-week (7 days) break, you should insert new NuvaRing on the next Monday at 8:00 am. While using NuvaRing, you should not use certain female barrier contraceptive methods such as vaginal diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom as your back-up method of birth control because NuvaRing may interfere with the correct placement and position of diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom.Ring breakage has occurred when also using vaginal product such as lubricant or treatment for infection (see What should do if my NuvaRing comes out of my vagina). Use of spermicides or vaginal yeast products will not make NuvaRing less effective at preventing pregnancy.Use of tampons will not make NuvaRing less effective or stop NuvaRing from working.If NuvaRing has been left inside your vagina for more than weeks (28 days), you may not be protected from pregnancy and you should see your healthcare provider to be sure you are not pregnant. Until you know the results of your pregnancy test, you should use an extra method of birth control, such as male condoms with spermicide, until the new NuvaRing has been in place for days in row.Do not use more than NuvaRing at time. Too much hormonal birth control medicine in your body may cause nausea, vomiting, or vaginal bleeding.Your healthcare provider should examine you at least time year to see if you have any signs of side effects from using NuvaRing.What are the possible side effects of using NuvaRing See What is the most important information should know about NuvaRing NuvaRing may cause serious side effects, including: blood clots. Like pregnancy, combination hormonal birth control methods increase the risk of serious blood clots (see following graph), especially in women who have other risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, or age greater than 35. This increased risk is highest when you first start using combination hormonal birth control method or when you restart the same or different combination hormonal birth control method after not using it for month or more. Talk with your healthcare provider about your risk of getting blood clot before using NuvaRing or before deciding which type of birth control is right for you. In some studies of women who used NuvaRing, the risk of getting blood clot was similar to the risk in women who used combination birth control pills. Other studies have reported that the risk of blood clots was higher for women who use combination birth control pills containing desogestrel (a progestin similar to the progestin in NuvaRing) than for women who use combination birth control pills that do not contain desogestrel. It is possible to die or be permanently disabled from problem caused by blood clot, such as heart attack or stroke. Some examples of serious blood clots are blood clots in the: legs (deep vein thrombosis)lungs (pulmonary embolus)eyes (loss of eyesight)heart (heart attack)brain (stroke) To put the risk of developing blood clot into perspective: If 10,000 women who are not pregnant and do not use hormonal birth control are followed for one year, between and of these women will develop blood clot. The figure below shows the likelihood of developing serious blood clot for women who are not pregnant and do not use hormonal birth control, for women who use hormonal birth control, for pregnant women, and for women in the first 12 weeks after delivering baby. Likelihood of Developing Serious Blood Clot (Venous Thromboembolism [VTE]) CHC=combination hormonal contraception Pregnancy data based on actual duration of pregnancy in the reference studies. Based on model assumption that pregnancy duration is nine months, the rate is to 27 per 10,000 WY. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:leg pain that does not go awaysudden shortness of breathsudden blindness, partial or completesevere pain or pressure in your chestsudden, severe headache unlike your usual headachesweakness or numbness in an arm or leg, or trouble speakingyellowing of the skin or eyeballsOther serious risks include:Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Some of the symptoms are much the same as the flu, but they can become serious very quickly. Call your healthcare provider or get emergency treatment right away if you have the following symptoms: sudden high fevervomitingdiarrheaa sunburn-like rashmuscle achesdizzinessfainting or feeling faint when standing up allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing (anaphylaxis and/or angioedema)liver problems, including liver tumorshigh blood pressuregallbladder problemsaccidental insertion into bladdersymptoms of problem called angioedema if you already have family history of angioedemaThe most common side effects of NuvaRing are:tissue irritation inside your vagina or on your cervixheadache (including migraine)mood changes (including depression, especially if you had depression in the past). Call your healthcare provider immediately if you have any thoughts of harming yourself.NuvaRing problems, including the ring slipping out or causing discomfortnausea and vomitingvaginal discharge weight gainvaginal discomfortbreast pain, discomfort, or tendernesspainful menstrual periodsabdominal painacneless sexual desireSome women have spotting or light bleeding during NuvaRing use. If these symptoms occur, do not stop using NuvaRing. The problem will usually go away. If it doesnt go away, check with your healthcare provider.Other side effects seen with NuvaRing include breast discharge; vaginal injury (including pain, discomfort, and bleeding) associated with broken rings; and penis discomfort of the partner (such as irritation, rash, itching).Less common side effects seen with combination hormonal birth control include:Blotchy darkening of your skin, especially on your faceHigh blood sugar, especially in women who already have diabetesHigh fat (cholesterol, triglycerides) levels in the bloodThere have been reports of the ring becoming stuck to the vaginal tissue and having to be removed by healthcare provider. Call your healthcare provider if you are unable to remove your NuvaRing.Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of NuvaRing. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.How should store NuvaRing and throw away used NuvaRingsStore NuvaRing at room temperature between 68F to 77F (20C to 25C).Store NuvaRing at room temperature for up to months after you receive it. Throw NuvaRing away if the expiration date on the label has passed.Do not store NuvaRing above 86F (30C).Avoid direct sunlight.Place the used NuvaRing in the re-closable foil pouch and properly throw it away in your household trash out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush your used NuvaRing down the toilet.Keep NuvaRing and all medicines out of the reach of children.General information about the safe and effective use of NuvaRingMedicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in the Patient Information. Do not use NuvaRing for condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give NuvaRing to other people. It may harm them.This leaflet summarizes the most important information about NuvaRing. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about NuvaRing that is written for health professionals.For more information on NuvaRing and the applicator for NuvaRing, go to www.nuvaring.com or call 1-800-622-4477.What are the ingredients in NuvaRingActive ingredients: etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiolInactive ingredients: ethylene vinylacetate copolymers (28% and 9% vinylacetate) and magnesium stearate.NuvaRing is not made with natural rubber latex.Do Hormonal Birth Control Methods Cause CancerHormonal birth control methods do not seem to cause breast cancer. However, if you have breast cancer now or have had it in the past, do not use hormonal birth control, including NuvaRing, because some breast cancers are sensitive to hormones.Women who use hormonal birth control methods may have slightly higher chance of getting cervical cancer. However, this may be due to other reasons such as having more sexual partners. What should know about my period when using NuvaRingWhen you use NuvaRing you may have bleeding and spotting between periods, called unplanned bleeding. Unplanned bleeding may vary from slight staining between menstrual periods to breakthrough bleeding, which is flow much like regular period. Unplanned bleeding occurs most often during the first few months of NuvaRing use, but may also occur after you have been using NuvaRing for some time. Such bleeding may be temporary and usually does not indicate any serious problems. It is important to continue using the ring on schedule. If the unplanned bleeding or spotting is heavy or lasts for more than few days, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider.What if miss my regular scheduled period when using NuvaRingSome women miss periods on hormonal birth control, even when they are not pregnant. Consider the possibility that you may be pregnant if:you miss period and NuvaRing was out of the vagina for more than hours during the weeks (21 days) of ring useyou miss period and waited longer than week to insert new ringyou have followed the instructions and you miss periods in rowyou have left NuvaRing in place for longer than weeks (28 days)What if want to become pregnantYou may stop using NuvaRing whenever you wish. Consider visit with your healthcare provider for pre-pregnancy checkup before you stop using NuvaRing.. smoke and are over 35 years old. have or have had blood clots in your arms, legs, eyes, or lungs have an inherited problem with your blood that makes it clot more than normal. have had stroke. have had heart attack. have certain heart valve problems or heart rhythm problems that can cause blood clots to form in the heart. have high blood pressure that medicine cant control. have diabetes with kidney, eye, nerve, or blood vessel damage. have certain kinds of severe migraine headaches with aura, numbness, weakness, or changes in vision, or have any migraine headaches if you are over age 35. have liver disease, including liver tumors. take any Hepatitis drug combination containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir. This may increase levels of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the blood. have unexplained vaginal bleeding. are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. NuvaRing is not for pregnant women.. have or have had breast cancer or any cancer that is sensitive to female hormones. are allergic to etonogestrel, ethinyl estradiol or any of the ingredients in NuvaRing. See the list of ingredients in NuvaRing at the end of this leaflet.. have any medical conditions. smoke. are pregnant or think you are pregnant. recently had baby. recently had miscarriage or abortion. have family history of breast cancer. have or have had breast nodules, fibrocystic disease, an abnormal breast x-ray, or abnormal mammogram. use tampons and have history of toxic shock syndrome. have been diagnosed with depression. have had liver problems including jaundice during pregnancy. have or have had elevated cholesterol or triglycerides. have or have had gallbladder, liver, heart, or kidney disease. have diabetes. have history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) caused by pregnancy (also called cholestasis of pregnancy). have history of scanty or irregular menstrual periods. have any condition that makes the vagina become irritated easily. have or have had high blood pressure. have or have had migraines or other headaches or seizures. are scheduled for surgery. NuvaRing may increase your risk of blood clots after surgery. You should stop using NuvaRing at least weeks before you have surgery and not restart it until at least weeks after your surgery.. are scheduled for any laboratory tests. Certain blood tests may be affected by hormonal birth control methods.. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Hormonal birth control methods that contain estrogen, like NuvaRing, may decrease the amount of milk you make. small amount of hormones from NuvaRing may pass into your breast milk. Consider another non-hormonal method of birth control until you are ready to stop breastfeeding.. have (or have ever had) an allergic reaction while using NuvaRing, including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing (anaphylaxis and/or angioedema). certain anti-seizure medicines (such as barbiturates, carbamazepine, felbamate, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, rufinamide and topiramate). medicine to treat fungal infections (griseofulvin). certain combinations of HIV medicines, (such as nelfinavir, ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, (fos)amprenavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and tipranavir/ritonavir). certain hepatitis (HCV) medicines (such as boceprevir and telaprevir). non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (such as efavirenz and nevirapine). medicine to treat tuberculosis (such as rifampicin and rifabutin). medicine to treat high blood pressure in the vessels of the lung (bosentan). medicine to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (aprepitant). St Johns wort. the pain reliever acetaminophen. ascorbic acid (vitamin C). medicines that affect how your liver breaks down other medicines (such as itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, clarithromycin, erythromycin, and diltiazem). certain HIV medicines (atazanavir/ritonavir and indinavir). non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (such as etravirine). medicines to lower cholesterol such as atorvastatin and rosuvastatin. Read the Instructions for Use at the end of this Patient Information that comes with your NuvaRing for information about the right way to use NuvaRing. Use NuvaRing exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.. NuvaRing is used in 4-week cycle. Insert NuvaRing in the vagina and keep it in place for weeks (21 days).Regularly check that NuvaRing is in your vagina (for example, before and after intercourse) to ensure that you are protected from pregnancy. Remove the NuvaRing for 1-week break (7 days). During the 1-week break (7 days), you will usually have your menstrual period. Note: Insert and remove NuvaRing on the same day of the week and at the same time: For example, if you insert your NuvaRing on Monday at 8:00 am, you should remove it on the Monday weeks later at 8:00 am.After your 1-week (7 days) break, you should insert new NuvaRing on the next Monday at 8:00 am. Insert NuvaRing in the vagina and keep it in place for weeks (21 days).Regularly check that NuvaRing is in your vagina (for example, before and after intercourse) to ensure that you are protected from pregnancy. Remove the NuvaRing for 1-week break (7 days). During the 1-week break (7 days), you will usually have your menstrual period. Note: Insert and remove NuvaRing on the same day of the week and at the same time: For example, if you insert your NuvaRing on Monday at 8:00 am, you should remove it on the Monday weeks later at 8:00 am.After your 1-week (7 days) break, you should insert new NuvaRing on the next Monday at 8:00 am. For example, if you insert your NuvaRing on Monday at 8:00 am, you should remove it on the Monday weeks later at 8:00 am.. After your 1-week (7 days) break, you should insert new NuvaRing on the next Monday at 8:00 am.. While using NuvaRing, you should not use certain female barrier contraceptive methods such as vaginal diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom as your back-up method of birth control because NuvaRing may interfere with the correct placement and position of diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom.. Ring breakage has occurred when also using vaginal product such as lubricant or treatment for infection (see What should do if my NuvaRing comes out of my vagina). Use of spermicides or vaginal yeast products will not make NuvaRing less effective at preventing pregnancy.. Use of tampons will not make NuvaRing less effective or stop NuvaRing from working.. If NuvaRing has been left inside your vagina for more than weeks (28 days), you may not be protected from pregnancy and you should see your healthcare provider to be sure you are not pregnant. Until you know the results of your pregnancy test, you should use an extra method of birth control, such as male condoms with spermicide, until the new NuvaRing has been in place for days in row.. Do not use more than NuvaRing at time. Too much hormonal birth control medicine in your body may cause nausea, vomiting, or vaginal bleeding.. blood clots. Like pregnancy, combination hormonal birth control methods increase the risk of serious blood clots (see following graph), especially in women who have other risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, or age greater than 35. This increased risk is highest when you first start using combination hormonal birth control method or when you restart the same or different combination hormonal birth control method after not using it for month or more. Talk with your healthcare provider about your risk of getting blood clot before using NuvaRing or before deciding which type of birth control is right for you. In some studies of women who used NuvaRing, the risk of getting blood clot was similar to the risk in women who used combination birth control pills. Other studies have reported that the risk of blood clots was higher for women who use combination birth control pills containing desogestrel (a progestin similar to the progestin in NuvaRing) than for women who use combination birth control pills that do not contain desogestrel. It is possible to die or be permanently disabled from problem caused by blood clot, such as heart attack or stroke. Some examples of serious blood clots are blood clots in the: legs (deep vein thrombosis)lungs (pulmonary embolus)eyes (loss of eyesight)heart (heart attack)brain (stroke) legs (deep vein thrombosis). lungs (pulmonary embolus). eyes (loss of eyesight). heart (heart attack). brain (stroke) To put the risk of developing blood clot into perspective: If 10,000 women who are not pregnant and do not use hormonal birth control are followed for one year, between and of these women will develop blood clot. The figure below shows the likelihood of developing serious blood clot for women who are not pregnant and do not use hormonal birth control, for women who use hormonal birth control, for pregnant women, and for women in the first 12 weeks after delivering baby. Likelihood of Developing Serious Blood Clot (Venous Thromboembolism [VTE]) CHC=combination hormonal contraception Pregnancy data based on actual duration of pregnancy in the reference studies. Based on model assumption that pregnancy duration is nine months, the rate is to 27 per 10,000 WY. Likelihood of Developing Serious Blood Clot (Venous Thromboembolism [VTE]). CHC=combination hormonal contraception. Pregnancy data based on actual duration of pregnancy in the reference studies. Based on model assumption that pregnancy duration is nine months, the rate is to 27 per 10,000 WY. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:leg pain that does not go awaysudden shortness of breathsudden blindness, partial or completesevere pain or pressure in your chestsudden, severe headache unlike your usual headachesweakness or numbness in an arm or leg, or trouble speakingyellowing of the skin or eyeballs. leg pain that does not go away. sudden shortness of breath. sudden blindness, partial or complete. severe pain or pressure in your chest. sudden, severe headache unlike your usual headaches. weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, or trouble speaking. yellowing of the skin or eyeballs. Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Some of the symptoms are much the same as the flu, but they can become serious very quickly. Call your healthcare provider or get emergency treatment right away if you have the following symptoms: sudden high fevervomitingdiarrheaa sunburn-like rashmuscle achesdizzinessfainting or feeling faint when standing up sudden high fever. vomiting. diarrhea. sunburn-like rash. muscle aches. dizziness. fainting or feeling faint when standing up. allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing (anaphylaxis and/or angioedema). liver problems, including liver tumors. high blood pressure. gallbladder problems. accidental insertion into bladder. symptoms of problem called angioedema if you already have family history of angioedema. tissue irritation inside your vagina or on your cervix. headache (including migraine). mood changes (including depression, especially if you had depression in the past). Call your healthcare provider immediately if you have any thoughts of harming yourself.. NuvaRing problems, including the ring slipping out or causing discomfort. nausea and vomiting. vaginal discharge weight gain. vaginal discomfort. breast pain, discomfort, or tenderness. painful menstrual periods. abdominal pain. acne. less sexual desire. Blotchy darkening of your skin, especially on your face. High blood sugar, especially in women who already have diabetes. High fat (cholesterol, triglycerides) levels in the blood. Store NuvaRing at room temperature between 68F to 77F (20C to 25C).. Store NuvaRing at room temperature for up to months after you receive it. Throw NuvaRing away if the expiration date on the label has passed.. Do not store NuvaRing above 86F (30C).. Avoid direct sunlight.. Place the used NuvaRing in the re-closable foil pouch and properly throw it away in your household trash out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush your used NuvaRing down the toilet.. you miss period and NuvaRing was out of the vagina for more than hours during the weeks (21 days) of ring use. you miss period and waited longer than week to insert new ring. you have followed the instructions and you miss periods in row. you have left NuvaRing in place for longer than weeks (28 days). Figure 3. Figure 4.

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.


1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE. FOR VAGINAL USE ONLYNuvaRing(R) is indicated for use by females of reproductive age to prevent pregnancy.. NuvaRing is an estrogen/progestin combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC) indicated for use by women to prevent pregnancy. (1).

ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.


6 ADVERSE REACTIONS. The following serious adverse reactions with the use of CHCs are discussed elsewhere in the labeling.Serious cardiovascular events and stroke [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Vascular events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Adverse reactions commonly reported by CHC users are:Irregular uterine bleedingNauseaBreast tendernessHeadache. Serious cardiovascular events and stroke [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Vascular events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Irregular uterine bleeding. Nausea. Breast tenderness. Headache. The most common adverse reactions (>=2%) in clinical trials were: vaginitis, headache (including migraine), mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings, mood altered, depressed mood, affect lability), device-related events (e.g., expulsion/discomfort/foreign body sensation), nausea/vomiting, vaginal discharge, increased weight, vaginal discomfort, breast pain/discomfort/tenderness, dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain, acne, and decreased libido. (6)To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Merck, Sharp Dohme Corp., subsidiary of Merck Co., Inc., at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience. Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.Trials with duration of to 13 28-day cycles provided safety data. In total, 2,501 women, aged 18 to 41 contributed 24,520 cycles of exposure.. Common Adverse Reactions (>= 2%): vaginitis (13.8%), headache (including migraine) (11.2%), mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings, mood altered, depressed mood, affect lability) (6.4%), device-related events (e.g., expulsion/discomfort/foreign body sensation) (6.3%), nausea/vomiting (5.9%), vaginal discharge (5.7%), increased weight (4.9%), vaginal discomfort (4.0%), breast pain/discomfort/tenderness (3.8%), dysmenorrhea (3.5%), abdominal pain (3.2%), acne (2.4%), and decreased libido (2.0%).. Adverse Reactions (>= 1%) Leading to Study Discontinuation: 13.0% of the women discontinued from the clinical trials due to an adverse reaction; the most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were device-related events (2.7%), mood changes (1.7%), headache (including migraine) (1.5%) and vaginal symptoms (1.2%).. Serious Adverse Reactions: deep vein thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)], anxiety, cholelithiasis, and vomiting.. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience. The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of NuvaRing. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish causal relationship to drug exposure.Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedemaNervous system disorders: stroke/cerebrovascular accidentVascular disorders: arterial events (including arterial thromboembolism and myocardial infarction), aggravation of varicose veinsSkin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: urticaria, chloasmaReproductive system and breast disorders: penile disorders, including local reactions on penis (in male partners of women using NuvaRing), galactorrheaGeneral Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: device breakage (including with concomitant use of intravaginal antimycotic, antibiotic, and lubricant products)Injury, poisoning and procedural complications: vaginal injury (including associated pain, discomfort, and bleeding) associated with ring breakage.

BOXED WARNING SECTION.


WARNING: CIGARETTE SMOKING AND SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC) use. This risk increases with age, particularly in women over 35 years of age, and with the number of cigarettes smoked. For this reason, CHCs, including NuvaRing, should not be used by women who are over 35 years of age and smoke. [See Contraindications (4).] WARNING: CIGARETTE SMOKING AND SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTSSee full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.Women over 35 years old who smoke should not use NuvaRing. (4)Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC) use. (4). Women over 35 years old who smoke should not use NuvaRing. (4). Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC) use. (4).

CARCINOGENESIS & MUTAGENESIS & IMPAIRMENT OF FERTILITY SECTION.


13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. CarcinogenesisIn 24-month carcinogenicity study in rats with subdermal implants releasing 10 and 20 mcg etonogestrel per day, (approximately 0.3 and 0.6 times the systemic steady-state exposure of women using NuvaRing), no drug-related carcinogenic potential was observed. MutagenesisEtonogestrel was not genotoxic in the in vitro Ames/Salmonella reverse mutation assay, the chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells or in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test. Impairment of FertilityA fertility study was conducted with etonogestrel in rats at approximately 600 times the anticipated daily vaginal human dose (~0.002 mg/kg/day). Treatment did not have any adverse effect on resulting litter parameters after cessation of treatment supporting the return to fertility after suppression with etonogestrel.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.


12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. 12.1 Mechanism of Action. Combination hormonal contraceptives act by suppression of gonadotropins. Although the primary effect of this action is inhibition of ovulation, other alterations include changes in the cervical mucus (which increase the difficulty of sperm entry into the uterus) and the endometrium (which reduce the likelihood of implantation).. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Absorption. Etonogestrel: Etonogestrel released by NuvaRing is rapidly absorbed. The bioavailability of etonogestrel after vaginal administration is approximately 100%. The serum etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol concentrations observed during three weeks of NuvaRing use are summarized in Table 2.. Ethinyl estradiol: Ethinyl estradiol released by NuvaRing is rapidly absorbed. The bioavailability of ethinyl estradiol after vaginal administration is approximately 56%, which is comparable to that with oral administration of ethinyl estradiol. The serum ethinyl estradiol concentrations observed during three weeks of NuvaRing use are summarized in Table 2.Table 2: Mean (SD) Serum Etonogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Concentrations (n=16)1 week2 weeks3 weeksetonogestrel(pg/mL)1578 (408)1476 (362)1374 (328)ethinyl estradiol(pg/mL)19.1 (4.5)18.3 (4.3)17.6 (4.3)The pharmacokinetic profile of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol during use of NuvaRing is shown in Figure 2.Figure 2: Mean Serum Concentration-Time Profile of Etonogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol during Three Weeks of NuvaRing UseThe pharmacokinetic parameters of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol were determined during one cycle of NuvaRing use in 16 healthy female subjects and are summarized in Table 3.Table 3: Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of NuvaRing (n=16)HormoneCmax pg/mLTmax hrt1/2 hrCLL/hrCmax- maximum serum drug concentrationTmax- time at which maximum serum drug concentration occurst1/2 elimination half-life, calculated by 0.693/Kelim CL apparent clearanceetonogestrel1716 (445)200.3 (69.6)29.3 (6.1)3.4 (0.8)ethinyl estradiol34.7 (17.5)59.3 (67.5)44.7 (28.8)34.8 (11.6). Figure 2. Prolonged use of NuvaRing: The mean serum etonogestrel concentration at the end of the fourth week of continuous use of NuvaRing was 1272 +- 311 pg/mL compared to mean concentration range of 1578 +- 408 to 1374 +- 328 pg/mL at the end of weeks one to three. The mean serum ethinyl estradiol concentration at the end of the fourth week of continuous use of NuvaRing was 16.8 +- 4.6 pg/mL compared to mean concentration range of 19.1 +- 4.5 to 17.6 +- 4.3 pg/mL at the end of weeks one to three.. Distribution. Etonogestrel: Etonogestrel is approximately 32% bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and approximately 66% bound to albumin in blood.. Ethinyl estradiol: Ethinyl estradiol is highly but not specifically bound to serum albumin (98.5%) and induces an increase in the serum concentrations of SHBG.. MetabolismIn vitro data shows that both etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are metabolized in liver microsomes by the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme. Ethinyl estradiol is primarily metabolized by aromatic hydroxylation, but wide variety of hydroxylated and methylated metabolites are formed. These are present as free metabolites and as sulfate and glucuronide conjugates. The hydroxylated ethinyl estradiol metabolites have weak estrogenic activity. The biological activity of etonogestrel metabolites is unknown.. ExcretionEtonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are primarily eliminated in urine, bile and feces.. Drug Interactions[See also Drug Interactions (7).]The drug interactions of NuvaRing were evaluated in several studies.A single-dose vaginal administration of an oil-based 1200-mg miconazole nitrate capsule increased the serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol by approximately 17% and 16%, respectively. Following multiple doses of 200 mg miconazole nitrate by vaginal suppository or vaginal cream, the mean serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol increased by up to 40%.A single-dose vaginal administration of 100-mg water-based nonoxynol-9 spermicide gel did not affect the serum concentrations of etonogestrel or ethinyl estradiol.The serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol were not affected by concomitant administration of oral amoxicillin or doxycycline in standard dosages during 10 days of antibiotic treatment.. Tampon UseThe use of tampons had no effect on serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol during use of NuvaRing [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION.


14 CLINICAL STUDIES. In three large one-year clinical trials enrolling 2,834 women aged 18-40 years, in North America, Europe, Brazil, and Chile, the racial distribution was 93% Caucasian, 5.0% Black, 0.8% Asian, and 1.2% Other. Women with BMI >= 30 kg/m2 were excluded from these studies. Based on pooled data from the three trials, 2,356 women aged 35 years completed 23,515 evaluable cycles of NuvaRing use (cycles in which no back-up contraception was used). The pooled pregnancy rate (Pearl Index) was 1.28 (95% CI [0.8, 1.9]) per 100 women-years of NuvaRing use. In the US study, the Pearl Index was 2.02 (95% CI [1.1, 3.4]) per 100 women-years of NuvaRing use.Study data indicate the return of ovulation and spontaneous menstrual cycles in most women within month after discontinuation of NuvaRing use.

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.


4 CONTRAINDICATIONS. Do not prescribe NuvaRing to women who are known to have or use the following:A high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases. Examples include women who are known to: Smoke, if over age 35 [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, now or in the past [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have cerebrovascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have coronary artery disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have thrombogenic valvular or thrombogenic rhythm diseases of the heart (for example, subacute bacterial endocarditis with valvular disease, or atrial fibrillation) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have inherited or acquired hypercoagulopathies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have uncontrolled hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)] Have diabetes mellitus with vascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)] Have headaches with focal neurological symptoms or migraine headaches with aura [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Women over age 35 with any migraine headaches [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Liver tumors, benign or malignant or liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)] Pregnancy, because there is no reason to use CHCs during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)] Breast cancer or other estrogen- or progestin-sensitive cancer, now or in the past [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)] Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, to any of the components of NuvaRing [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Adverse Reactions (6)] Use of Hepatitis drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, due to potential for ALT elevations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] A high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases. Examples include women who are known to: Smoke, if over age 35 [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, now or in the past [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have cerebrovascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have coronary artery disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have thrombogenic valvular or thrombogenic rhythm diseases of the heart (for example, subacute bacterial endocarditis with valvular disease, or atrial fibrillation) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have inherited or acquired hypercoagulopathies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have uncontrolled hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)] Have diabetes mellitus with vascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)] Have headaches with focal neurological symptoms or migraine headaches with aura [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Women over age 35 with any migraine headaches [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Smoke, if over age 35 [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, now or in the past [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have cerebrovascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have coronary artery disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have thrombogenic valvular or thrombogenic rhythm diseases of the heart (for example, subacute bacterial endocarditis with valvular disease, or atrial fibrillation) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have inherited or acquired hypercoagulopathies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Have uncontrolled hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)] Have diabetes mellitus with vascular disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)] Have headaches with focal neurological symptoms or migraine headaches with aura [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Women over age 35 with any migraine headaches [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Women over age 35 with any migraine headaches [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)] Liver tumors, benign or malignant or liver disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)] Pregnancy, because there is no reason to use CHCs during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)] Breast cancer or other estrogen- or progestin-sensitive cancer, now or in the past [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)] Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, to any of the components of NuvaRing [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Adverse Reactions (6)] Use of Hepatitis drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, due to potential for ALT elevations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] A high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases (4)Breast cancer or other estrogen- or progestin-sensitive cancer (4)Liver tumors or liver disease (4)Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding (4)Pregnancy (4)Hypersensitivity, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, to any of the components of NuvaRing (4)Co-administration with Hepatitis drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir (4). high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases (4). Breast cancer or other estrogen- or progestin-sensitive cancer (4). Liver tumors or liver disease (4). Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding (4). Pregnancy (4). Hypersensitivity, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, to any of the components of NuvaRing (4). Co-administration with Hepatitis drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir (4).

DESCRIPTION SECTION.


11 DESCRIPTION. NuvaRing (etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring) is non-biodegradable, flexible, transparent, colorless to almost colorless, combination contraceptive vaginal ring containing two active components, progestin, etonogestrel (13-ethyl-17-hydroxy-11-methylene-18,19-dinor-17-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one) and an estrogen, ethinyl estradiol (19-nor-17-pregna-1,3,5(10)-trien-20-yne-3,17-diol). When placed in the vagina, each ring releases on average 0.120 mg/day of etonogestrel and 0.015 mg/day of ethinyl estradiol over three-week period of use. NuvaRing is made of ethylene vinylacetate copolymers (28% and 9% vinylacetate) and magnesium stearate and contains 11.7 mg etonogestrel and 2.7 mg ethinyl estradiol. NuvaRing is not made with natural rubber latex. NuvaRing has an outer diameter of 54 mm and cross-sectional diameter of mm. The molecular weights for etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are 324.46 and 296.40, respectively.The structural formulas are as follows:. Chemical Structure.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.


2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. One NuvaRing is inserted in the vagina. The ring must remain in place continuously for three weeks, followed by one-week ring-free interval. (2). 2.1 How to Use NuvaRing. To achieve maximum contraceptive effectiveness, NuvaRing must be used as directed [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. One NuvaRing is inserted in the vagina. The ring is to remain in place continuously for three weeks. It is removed for one-week break, during which withdrawal bleed usually occurs. new ring is inserted one week after the last ring was removed.The user can choose the insertion position that is most comfortable to her, for example, standing with one leg up, squatting, or lying down. The ring is to be compressed and inserted into the vagina. An optional alternative is to insert the ring using the applicator for NuvaRing [see Applicator for NuvaRing Instructions for Use]. The exact position of NuvaRing inside the vagina is not critical for its function. The vaginal ring must be inserted on the appropriate day and left in place for three consecutive weeks. This means that the ring should be removed three weeks later on the same day of the week as it was inserted and at about the same time.NuvaRing can be removed by hooking the index finger under the forward rim or by grasping the rim between the index and middle finger and pulling it out. The used ring should be placed in the sachet (foil pouch) and discarded in waste receptacle out of the reach of children and pets (do not flush in toilet).After one-week break, during which withdrawal bleed usually occurs, new ring is inserted on the same day of the week as it was inserted in the previous cycle. The withdrawal bleed usually starts on Day 2-3 after removal of the ring and may not have finished before the next ring is inserted. In order to maintain contraceptive effectiveness, the new ring must be inserted exactly one week after the previous one was removed even if menstrual bleeding has not finished.. 2.2 How to Start Using NuvaRing. IMPORTANT: Consider the possibility of ovulation and conception prior to the first use of NuvaRing.. No Hormonal Contraceptive Use in the Preceding Cycle:The woman should insert NuvaRing on the first day of her menstrual bleeding. NuvaRing may also be started on Days 2-5 of the womans cycle, but in this case barrier method, such as male condoms with spermicide, should be used for the first seven days of NuvaRing use in the first cycle.. Changing From CHC:The woman may switch from her previous CHC on any day, but at the latest on the day following the usual hormone-free interval, if she has been using her hormonal method consistently and correctly, or if it is reasonably certain that she is not pregnant.. Changing From Progestin-Only Method (progestin-only pill [POP], Implant, or Injection or Progestin-Releasing Intrauterine System [IUS]):The woman may switch from the POP on any day; instruct her to start using NuvaRing on the day after she took her last POP. She should switch from an implant or the IUS on the day of its removal, and from an injectable on the day when the next injection would be due. In all of these cases, the woman should use an additional barrier method such as male condom with spermicide, for the first seven days.. Use After Abortion or Miscarriage:The woman may start using NuvaRing within the first five days following complete first trimester abortion or miscarriage, and she does not need to use an additional method of contraception. If use of NuvaRing is not started within five days following first trimester abortion or miscarriage, the woman should follow the instructions for No Hormonal Contraceptive Use in the Preceding Cycle. In the meantime, she should be advised to use non-hormonal contraceptive method.Start NuvaRing no earlier than four weeks after second trimester abortion or miscarriage, due to the increased risk of thromboembolism. [See Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) .] Following Childbirth:The use of NuvaRing may be initiated no sooner than four weeks postpartum in women who elect not to breastfeed, due to the increased risk of thromboembolism in the postpartum period. [See Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) .] Advise women who are breastfeeding not to use NuvaRing but to use other forms of contraception until the child is weaned.If woman begins using NuvaRing postpartum, instruct her to use an additional method of contraception, such as male condoms with spermicide, for the first seven days. If she has not yet had period, consider the possibility of ovulation and conception occurring prior to initiation of NuvaRing.. 2.3 Deviations from the Recommended Regimen. To prevent loss of contraceptive efficacy, advise women not to deviate from the recommended regimen. NuvaRing should be left in the vagina for continuous period of three weeks. Advise women to regularly check for the presence of NuvaRing in the vagina (for example, before and after intercourse).. Inadvertent Removal or Expulsion:NuvaRing can be accidentally expelled, for example, while removing tampon, during intercourse, or with straining during bowel movement. NuvaRing should be left in the vagina for continuous period of three weeks. If the ring is accidentally expelled and is left outside of the vagina for less than three hours, contraceptive efficacy is not reduced. NuvaRing can be rinsed with cool to lukewarm (not hot) water and reinserted as soon as possible, but at the latest within three hours. If NuvaRing is lost, new vaginal ring should be inserted and the regimen should be continued without alteration.If NuvaRing is out of the vagina for more than three continuous hours: During Weeks and 2: Contraceptive efficacy may be reduced. The woman should reinsert the ring as soon as she remembers. barrier method such as male condoms with spermicides must be used until the ring has been used continuously for seven days.During Week 3: The woman should discard that ring. One of the following two options should be chosen:Insert new ring immediately. Inserting new ring will start the next three-week use period. The woman may not experience withdrawal bleed from her previous cycle. However, breakthrough spotting or bleeding may occur.Insert new ring no later than seven days from the time the previous ring was removed or expelled, during which time she may have withdrawal bleed. This option should only be chosen if the ring was used continuously for at least seven days prior to inadvertent removal/expulsion.In either case, barrier method such as male condoms with spermicides must be used until the new ring has been used continuously for seven days.If NuvaRing was out of the vagina for an unknown amount of time, the possibility of pregnancy should be considered. pregnancy test should be performed prior to inserting new ring.. Insert new ring immediately. Inserting new ring will start the next three-week use period. The woman may not experience withdrawal bleed from her previous cycle. However, breakthrough spotting or bleeding may occur.. Insert new ring no later than seven days from the time the previous ring was removed or expelled, during which time she may have withdrawal bleed. This option should only be chosen if the ring was used continuously for at least seven days prior to inadvertent removal/expulsion.. Prolonged Ring-Free Interval:If the ring-free interval has been extended beyond one week, consider the possibility of pregnancy, and an additional method of contraception, such as male condoms with spermicide, MUST be used until NuvaRing has been used continuously for seven days. Prolonged Use of NuvaRing:If NuvaRing has been left in place for up to one extra week (i.e., up to four weeks total), the woman will remain protected. NuvaRing should be removed and the woman should insert new ring after one-week ring-free interval.If NuvaRing has been left in place for longer than four weeks, instruct the woman to remove the ring, and rule out pregnancy. If pregnancy is ruled out, NuvaRing may be restarted, and an additional method of contraception, such as male condoms with spermicide, MUST be used until new NuvaRing has been used continuously for seven days. Ring Breakage:There have been reported cases of NuvaRing disconnecting at the weld joint. This is not expected to affect the contraceptive effectiveness of NuvaRing. In the event of disconnected ring, vaginal discomfort or expulsion (slipping out) is more likely to occur. Vaginal injury associated with ring breakage has been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. If woman discovers that her NuvaRing has disconnected, she should discard the ring and replace it with new ring.. 2.4 In the Event of Missed Menstrual Period. If the woman has not adhered to the prescribed regimen (NuvaRing has been out of the vagina for more than three hours or the preceding ring-free interval was extended beyond one week), consider the possibility of pregnancy at the time of the first missed period and discontinue NuvaRing use if pregnancy is confirmed.If the woman has adhered to the prescribed regimen and misses two consecutive periods, rule out pregnancy.If the woman has retained one NuvaRing for longer than four weeks, rule out pregnancy.. If the woman has not adhered to the prescribed regimen (NuvaRing has been out of the vagina for more than three hours or the preceding ring-free interval was extended beyond one week), consider the possibility of pregnancy at the time of the first missed period and discontinue NuvaRing use if pregnancy is confirmed.. If the woman has adhered to the prescribed regimen and misses two consecutive periods, rule out pregnancy.. If the woman has retained one NuvaRing for longer than four weeks, rule out pregnancy.. 2.5 Use with Other Vaginal Products. NuvaRing may interfere with the correct placement and position of certain female barrier methods such as diaphragm, cervical cap or female condom. These methods are not recommended as back-up methods with NuvaRing use. Pharmacokinetic data show that the use of tampons has no effect on the systemic absorption of the hormones released by NuvaRing.

DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION.


3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS. NuvaRing (etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring) is non-biodegradable, flexible, transparent, colorless to almost colorless, combination contraceptive vaginal ring, with an outer diameter of 54 mm and cross-sectional diameter of mm. It is made of ethylene vinylacetate copolymers and magnesium stearate, and contains 11.7 mg etonogestrel and 2.7 mg ethinyl estradiol. When placed in the vagina, each ring releases on average 0.120 mg/day of etonogestrel and 0.015 mg/day of ethinyl estradiol over three-week period of use. NuvaRing is not made with natural rubber latex.. NuvaRing is polymeric vaginal ring containing 11.7 mg etonogestrel and 2.7 mg ethinyl estradiol, which releases on average 0.12 mg/day of etonogestrel and 0.015 mg/day of ethinyl estradiol. (3).

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.


7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. Consult the labeling of all concurrently-used drugs to obtain further information about interactions with hormonal contraceptives or the potential for enzyme alterations.. Drugs or herbal products that induce certain enzymes, such as CYP3A4, may decrease the effectiveness of CHCs or increase breakthrough bleeding. Counsel patients to use back-up or alternative method of contraception when enzyme inducers are used with CHCs. (7). 7.1 Effects of Other Drugs on CHCs. Substances decreasing the plasma concentrations of CHCs and potentially diminishing the effectiveness of CHCsDrugs or herbal products that induce certain enzymes, including cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), may decrease the plasma concentrations of CHCs and potentially diminish the effectiveness of CHCs or increase breakthrough bleeding. Some drugs or herbal products that may decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives include: phenytoin, barbiturates, carbamazepine, bosentan, felbamate, griseofulvin, oxcarbazepine, rifampicin, topiramate, rifabutin, rufinamide, aprepitant, and products containing St. Johns wort. Interactions between CHCs and other drugs may lead to breakthrough bleeding and/or contraceptive failure.Counsel women to use an alternative non-hormonal method of contraception or back-up method when enzyme inducers are used with NuvaRing, and to continue back-up non-hormonal contraception for 28 days after discontinuing the enzyme inducer to ensure contraceptive reliability.Note: NuvaRing may interfere with the correct placement and position of certain female barrier methods such as diaphragm or female condom. These methods are not recommended as back-up methods with NuvaRing use [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].The serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol were not affected by concomitant administration of oral amoxicillin or doxycycline in standard dosages during 10 days of antibiotic treatment. The effects of other antibiotics on etonogestrel or ethinyl estradiol concentrations have not been evaluated.. Substances increasing the plasma concentrations of CHCsCo-administration of atorvastatin and certain CHCs containing ethinyl estradiol increase AUC values for ethinyl estradiol by approximately 20-25%. Ascorbic acid and acetaminophen may increase plasma ethinyl estradiol concentrations, possibly by inhibition of conjugation. Concomitant administration of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors such as itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, grapefruit juice, or ketoconazole may increase plasma estrogen and/or progestin concentrations. Co-administration of vaginal miconazole nitrate and NuvaRing increases the serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol by up to 40% [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Hepatitis Virus (HCV) protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitorsSignificant changes in the plasma concentrations of the estrogen and /or progestin have been noted in some cases of co-administration with HIV protease inhibitors (decrease [e.g., nelfinavir, ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, (fos)amprenavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and tipranavir/ritonavir] or increase [e.g., indinavir and atazanavir/ritonavir]) /HCV protease inhibitors (decrease [e.g., boceprevir and telaprevir]) or with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (decrease [e.g., efavirenz, nevirapine] or increase [e.g., etravirine]). These changes may be clinically relevant in some cases.. 7.2 Effects of CHCs on Other Drugs. CHCs containing ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the metabolism of other compounds (e.g., cyclosporine, prednisolone, theophylline, tizanidine, and voriconazole) and increase their plasma concentrations. CHCs have been shown to decrease plasma concentrations of acetaminophen, clofibric acid, morphine, salicylic acid and temazepam. significant decrease in the plasma concentrations of lamotrigine has been shown, likely due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation. This may reduce seizure control; therefore, dosage adjustments of lamotrigine may be necessary.Women on thyroid hormone replacement therapy may need increased doses of thyroid hormone because serum concentrations of thyroid-binding globulin increase with use of CHCs.. 7.3Concomitant Use with HCV Combination Therapy Liver Enzyme Elevation. Do not co-administer NuvaRing with HCV drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, due to potential for ALT elevations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].. 7.4 Interference with Laboratory Tests. The use of contraceptive steroids may influence the results of certain laboratory tests, such as coagulation factors, lipids, glucose tolerance, and binding proteins.

GERIATRIC USE SECTION.


8.5 Geriatric Use. NuvaRing has not been studied in postmenopausal women and is not indicated in this population.

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.


16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING. Each NuvaRing (etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring) is individually packaged in reclosable aluminum laminate sachet consisting of three layers, from outside to inside: polyester, aluminum foil, and low-density polyethylene. The ring should be replaced in this reclosable sachet after use and discarded in waste receptacle out of the reach of children and pets. It should not be flushed down the toilet.Box of sachetsNDC 0052-0273-03Box of sachetsNDC 0052-0273-05. 16.1 Storage. Prior to dispensing to the user, store refrigerated 2-8C (36-46F). After dispensing to the user, NuvaRing can be stored for up to months at 25C (77F); excursions permitted to 15-30C (59-86F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].Avoid storing NuvaRing in direct sunlight or at temperatures above 30C (86F).For the Dispenser: When NuvaRing is dispensed to the user, place an expiration date on the label. The date should not exceed either months from the date of dispensing or the expiration date, whichever comes first.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.


17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information and Instructions for Use).Counsel patients regarding the following:. Increased risk of cardiovascular eventsAdvise patients that cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from use of NuvaRing, and women who are over 35 years old and smoke should not use NuvaRing [see Boxed Warning]. Inform patients that the increased risk of VTE compared to non-users of CHCs is greatest after initially starting CHC or restarting (following 4-week or greater CHC-free interval) the same or different CHC [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Advise patients that cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from use of NuvaRing, and women who are over 35 years old and smoke should not use NuvaRing [see Boxed Warning]. Inform patients that the increased risk of VTE compared to non-users of CHCs is greatest after initially starting CHC or restarting (following 4-week or greater CHC-free interval) the same or different CHC [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Use and administrationInform patients that NuvaRing does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections.Advise patients on the proper usage of NuvaRing and what to do if she does not comply with the labeled timing of insertion and removal [see Dosage and Administration (2)]. Advise patients to regularly check for the presence of NuvaRing in the vagina (for example, before and after intercourse) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Inform patients that NuvaRing does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections.. Advise patients on the proper usage of NuvaRing and what to do if she does not comply with the labeled timing of insertion and removal [see Dosage and Administration (2)]. Advise patients to regularly check for the presence of NuvaRing in the vagina (for example, before and after intercourse) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. PregnancyInform patients that NuvaRing is not to be used during pregnancy. If pregnancy is planned or occurs during treatment with NuvaRing, instruct the patient to discontinue NuvaRing use [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].. Inform patients that NuvaRing is not to be used during pregnancy. If pregnancy is planned or occurs during treatment with NuvaRing, instruct the patient to discontinue NuvaRing use [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].. Use of additional contraceptionInform patients that they need to use barrier method of contraception when the ring is out for more than three continuous hours until NuvaRing has been used continuously for at least seven days [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].Advise patients to use back-up or alternative method of contraception when enzyme inducers are used with NuvaRing [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].Inform patients who start NuvaRing postpartum and have not yet had normal period that they should use an additional non-hormonal method of contraception for the first seven days [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Inform patients that they need to use barrier method of contraception when the ring is out for more than three continuous hours until NuvaRing has been used continuously for at least seven days [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].. Advise patients to use back-up or alternative method of contraception when enzyme inducers are used with NuvaRing [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].. Inform patients who start NuvaRing postpartum and have not yet had normal period that they should use an additional non-hormonal method of contraception for the first seven days [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. LactationInform patients that CHCs may reduce breast milk production. This is less likely to occur if breastfeeding is well established [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].. Inform patients that CHCs may reduce breast milk production. This is less likely to occur if breastfeeding is well established [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].. AmenorrheaInform patients that amenorrhea may occur. Rule out pregnancy in the event of amenorrhea if NuvaRing has been out of the vagina for more than three consecutive hours, if the ring-free interval was extended beyond one week, if the woman has missed period for two or more consecutive cycles, and if the ring has been retained for longer than four weeks [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].. Inform patients that amenorrhea may occur. Rule out pregnancy in the event of amenorrhea if NuvaRing has been out of the vagina for more than three consecutive hours, if the ring-free interval was extended beyond one week, if the woman has missed period for two or more consecutive cycles, and if the ring has been retained for longer than four weeks [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].. DisposalAdvise patients on the proper disposal of used NuvaRing [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)]. Advise patients on the proper disposal of used NuvaRing [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].

LACTATION SECTION.


8.2Lactation. Risk SummarySmall amounts of contraceptive steroids and/or metabolites, including etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are transferred to human milk. Harmful effects have not been observed in breastfed infants exposed to CHCs through breast milk. CHCs can reduce milk production in breastfeeding mothers. This is less likely to occur once breastfeeding is well-established; however, it can occur at any time in some women.When possible, advise the nursing mother to use non-estrogen-containing contraception until she has completely weaned her child. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mothers clinical need for NuvaRing and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from NuvaRing or from the underlying maternal condition.

MECHANISM OF ACTION SECTION.


12.1 Mechanism of Action. Combination hormonal contraceptives act by suppression of gonadotropins. Although the primary effect of this action is inhibition of ovulation, other alterations include changes in the cervical mucus (which increase the difficulty of sperm entry into the uterus) and the endometrium (which reduce the likelihood of implantation).

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION.


13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY. 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. CarcinogenesisIn 24-month carcinogenicity study in rats with subdermal implants releasing 10 and 20 mcg etonogestrel per day, (approximately 0.3 and 0.6 times the systemic steady-state exposure of women using NuvaRing), no drug-related carcinogenic potential was observed. MutagenesisEtonogestrel was not genotoxic in the in vitro Ames/Salmonella reverse mutation assay, the chromosomal aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells or in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test. Impairment of FertilityA fertility study was conducted with etonogestrel in rats at approximately 600 times the anticipated daily vaginal human dose (~0.002 mg/kg/day). Treatment did not have any adverse effect on resulting litter parameters after cessation of treatment supporting the return to fertility after suppression with etonogestrel.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.


10 OVERDOSAGE. There have been no reports of serious ill effects from overdose of CHCs. Overdosage may cause withdrawal bleeding in females and nausea. If the ring breaks, it does not release higher dose of hormones. In case of suspected overdose, all NuvaRing rings should be removed and symptomatic treatment given.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.


PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL 3 Ring Pouch Carton. For the Dispenser: Store refrigerated 2-8C (36- 46F).NDC 0052-0273-05NUVARING(R)(etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring)delivers 0.120 mg/0.015 mg per dayFor Vaginal UseKeep out of the reach of children.This product is intended to preventpregnancy. It does not protect againstHIV infection (AIDS) and other sexuallytransmitted diseases.Rx onlyContains Rings. Principle Display Panel 3 Ring Pouch Carton.

PEDIATRIC USE SECTION.


8.4 Pediatric Use. Safety and efficacy of NuvaRing have been established in women of reproductive age. Efficacy is expected to be the same for postpubertal adolescents under the age of 18 and for users 18 years and older. Use of this product before menarche is not indicated.

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.


12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Absorption. Etonogestrel: Etonogestrel released by NuvaRing is rapidly absorbed. The bioavailability of etonogestrel after vaginal administration is approximately 100%. The serum etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol concentrations observed during three weeks of NuvaRing use are summarized in Table 2.. Ethinyl estradiol: Ethinyl estradiol released by NuvaRing is rapidly absorbed. The bioavailability of ethinyl estradiol after vaginal administration is approximately 56%, which is comparable to that with oral administration of ethinyl estradiol. The serum ethinyl estradiol concentrations observed during three weeks of NuvaRing use are summarized in Table 2.Table 2: Mean (SD) Serum Etonogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Concentrations (n=16)1 week2 weeks3 weeksetonogestrel(pg/mL)1578 (408)1476 (362)1374 (328)ethinyl estradiol(pg/mL)19.1 (4.5)18.3 (4.3)17.6 (4.3)The pharmacokinetic profile of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol during use of NuvaRing is shown in Figure 2.Figure 2: Mean Serum Concentration-Time Profile of Etonogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol during Three Weeks of NuvaRing UseThe pharmacokinetic parameters of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol were determined during one cycle of NuvaRing use in 16 healthy female subjects and are summarized in Table 3.Table 3: Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters of NuvaRing (n=16)HormoneCmax pg/mLTmax hrt1/2 hrCLL/hrCmax- maximum serum drug concentrationTmax- time at which maximum serum drug concentration occurst1/2 elimination half-life, calculated by 0.693/Kelim CL apparent clearanceetonogestrel1716 (445)200.3 (69.6)29.3 (6.1)3.4 (0.8)ethinyl estradiol34.7 (17.5)59.3 (67.5)44.7 (28.8)34.8 (11.6). Figure 2. Prolonged use of NuvaRing: The mean serum etonogestrel concentration at the end of the fourth week of continuous use of NuvaRing was 1272 +- 311 pg/mL compared to mean concentration range of 1578 +- 408 to 1374 +- 328 pg/mL at the end of weeks one to three. The mean serum ethinyl estradiol concentration at the end of the fourth week of continuous use of NuvaRing was 16.8 +- 4.6 pg/mL compared to mean concentration range of 19.1 +- 4.5 to 17.6 +- 4.3 pg/mL at the end of weeks one to three.. Distribution. Etonogestrel: Etonogestrel is approximately 32% bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and approximately 66% bound to albumin in blood.. Ethinyl estradiol: Ethinyl estradiol is highly but not specifically bound to serum albumin (98.5%) and induces an increase in the serum concentrations of SHBG.. MetabolismIn vitro data shows that both etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are metabolized in liver microsomes by the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme. Ethinyl estradiol is primarily metabolized by aromatic hydroxylation, but wide variety of hydroxylated and methylated metabolites are formed. These are present as free metabolites and as sulfate and glucuronide conjugates. The hydroxylated ethinyl estradiol metabolites have weak estrogenic activity. The biological activity of etonogestrel metabolites is unknown.. ExcretionEtonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are primarily eliminated in urine, bile and feces.. Drug Interactions[See also Drug Interactions (7).]The drug interactions of NuvaRing were evaluated in several studies.A single-dose vaginal administration of an oil-based 1200-mg miconazole nitrate capsule increased the serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol by approximately 17% and 16%, respectively. Following multiple doses of 200 mg miconazole nitrate by vaginal suppository or vaginal cream, the mean serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol increased by up to 40%.A single-dose vaginal administration of 100-mg water-based nonoxynol-9 spermicide gel did not affect the serum concentrations of etonogestrel or ethinyl estradiol.The serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol were not affected by concomitant administration of oral amoxicillin or doxycycline in standard dosages during 10 days of antibiotic treatment.. Tampon UseThe use of tampons had no effect on serum concentrations of etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol during use of NuvaRing [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

PREGNANCY SECTION.


8.1 Pregnancy. Risk SummaryNuvaRing is contraindicated during pregnancy because there is no need for pregnancy prevention in woman who is already pregnant. Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not shown an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb-reduction defects) following maternal exposure to low dose CHCs prior to conception or during early pregnancy. No adverse developmental outcomes were observed in pregnant rats and rabbits with the administration of etonogestrel during organogenesis at doses approximately 300 times the anticipated daily vaginal human dose (~0.002 mg/kg/day).No adverse developmental outcomes were observed in pregnant rats and rabbits with the co-administration of the combination desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol during organogenesis at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol doses at least 2/5 times, respectively, the anticipated daily vaginal human dose (~0.002 desogestrel/0.00025 ethinyl estradiol mg/kg/day).Discontinue NuvaRing use if pregnancy is confirmed.. Data. Animal DataIn rats and rabbits at dosages up to 300 times the anticipated dose, etonogestrel is neither embryotoxic nor teratogenic. Co-administration of maternally toxic dose of desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol to pregnant rats was associated with embryolethality and wavy ribs at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 40/130 times, respectively, the anticipated vaginal human dose (0.002 desogestrel/0.00025 ethinyl estradiol mg/kg/day). No adverse embryofetal effects were observed when the combination was administered to pregnant rats at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 4/13 times, respectively, the anticipated vaginal human dose. When desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol was given to pregnant rabbits, pre-implantation loss was observed at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 3/10 times, respectively, the anticipated vaginal human dose. No adverse embryofetal effects were observed when the combination was administered to pregnant rabbits at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 2/5 times the anticipated vaginal human dose.

REFERENCES SECTION.


15 REFERENCES. Dinger, et. al., Cardiovascular risk associated with the use of an etonogestrel-containing vaginal ring. Obstetrics Gynecology 2013; 122(4): 800-808.Sidney, S. et. al., Recent combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) and the risk of thromboembolism and other cardiovascular events in new users. Contraception 2013; 87: 93-100.Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) and the risk of cardiovascular endpoints. Sidney, S. (primary author) http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/UCM277384.pdf, accessed 23-Aug-2013.. Dinger, et. al., Cardiovascular risk associated with the use of an etonogestrel-containing vaginal ring. Obstetrics Gynecology 2013; 122(4): 800-808.. Sidney, S. et. al., Recent combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) and the risk of thromboembolism and other cardiovascular events in new users. Contraception 2013; 87: 93-100.. Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) and the risk of cardiovascular endpoints. Sidney, S. (primary author) http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/UCM277384.pdf, accessed 23-Aug-2013.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.


2.1 How to Use NuvaRing. To achieve maximum contraceptive effectiveness, NuvaRing must be used as directed [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. One NuvaRing is inserted in the vagina. The ring is to remain in place continuously for three weeks. It is removed for one-week break, during which withdrawal bleed usually occurs. new ring is inserted one week after the last ring was removed.The user can choose the insertion position that is most comfortable to her, for example, standing with one leg up, squatting, or lying down. The ring is to be compressed and inserted into the vagina. An optional alternative is to insert the ring using the applicator for NuvaRing [see Applicator for NuvaRing Instructions for Use]. The exact position of NuvaRing inside the vagina is not critical for its function. The vaginal ring must be inserted on the appropriate day and left in place for three consecutive weeks. This means that the ring should be removed three weeks later on the same day of the week as it was inserted and at about the same time.NuvaRing can be removed by hooking the index finger under the forward rim or by grasping the rim between the index and middle finger and pulling it out. The used ring should be placed in the sachet (foil pouch) and discarded in waste receptacle out of the reach of children and pets (do not flush in toilet).After one-week break, during which withdrawal bleed usually occurs, new ring is inserted on the same day of the week as it was inserted in the previous cycle. The withdrawal bleed usually starts on Day 2-3 after removal of the ring and may not have finished before the next ring is inserted. In order to maintain contraceptive effectiveness, the new ring must be inserted exactly one week after the previous one was removed even if menstrual bleeding has not finished.

STORAGE AND HANDLING SECTION.


16.1 Storage. Prior to dispensing to the user, store refrigerated 2-8C (36-46F). After dispensing to the user, NuvaRing can be stored for up to months at 25C (77F); excursions permitted to 15-30C (59-86F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].Avoid storing NuvaRing in direct sunlight or at temperatures above 30C (86F).For the Dispenser: When NuvaRing is dispensed to the user, place an expiration date on the label. The date should not exceed either months from the date of dispensing or the expiration date, whichever comes first.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.


8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS. Nursing mothers: Not recommended; can decrease milk production. (8.2). Nursing mothers: Not recommended; can decrease milk production. (8.2). 8.1 Pregnancy. Risk SummaryNuvaRing is contraindicated during pregnancy because there is no need for pregnancy prevention in woman who is already pregnant. Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not shown an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb-reduction defects) following maternal exposure to low dose CHCs prior to conception or during early pregnancy. No adverse developmental outcomes were observed in pregnant rats and rabbits with the administration of etonogestrel during organogenesis at doses approximately 300 times the anticipated daily vaginal human dose (~0.002 mg/kg/day).No adverse developmental outcomes were observed in pregnant rats and rabbits with the co-administration of the combination desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol during organogenesis at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol doses at least 2/5 times, respectively, the anticipated daily vaginal human dose (~0.002 desogestrel/0.00025 ethinyl estradiol mg/kg/day).Discontinue NuvaRing use if pregnancy is confirmed.. Data. Animal DataIn rats and rabbits at dosages up to 300 times the anticipated dose, etonogestrel is neither embryotoxic nor teratogenic. Co-administration of maternally toxic dose of desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol to pregnant rats was associated with embryolethality and wavy ribs at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 40/130 times, respectively, the anticipated vaginal human dose (0.002 desogestrel/0.00025 ethinyl estradiol mg/kg/day). No adverse embryofetal effects were observed when the combination was administered to pregnant rats at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 4/13 times, respectively, the anticipated vaginal human dose. When desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol was given to pregnant rabbits, pre-implantation loss was observed at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 3/10 times, respectively, the anticipated vaginal human dose. No adverse embryofetal effects were observed when the combination was administered to pregnant rabbits at desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol dose that was 2/5 times the anticipated vaginal human dose.. 8.2Lactation. Risk SummarySmall amounts of contraceptive steroids and/or metabolites, including etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol are transferred to human milk. Harmful effects have not been observed in breastfed infants exposed to CHCs through breast milk. CHCs can reduce milk production in breastfeeding mothers. This is less likely to occur once breastfeeding is well-established; however, it can occur at any time in some women.When possible, advise the nursing mother to use non-estrogen-containing contraception until she has completely weaned her child. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mothers clinical need for NuvaRing and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from NuvaRing or from the underlying maternal condition.. 8.4 Pediatric Use. Safety and efficacy of NuvaRing have been established in women of reproductive age. Efficacy is expected to be the same for postpubertal adolescents under the age of 18 and for users 18 years and older. Use of this product before menarche is not indicated.. 8.5 Geriatric Use. NuvaRing has not been studied in postmenopausal women and is not indicated in this population.. 8.6 Hepatic Impairment. The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of NuvaRing has not been studied. Steroid hormones may be poorly metabolized in patients with impaired liver function. Acute or chronic disturbances of liver function may necessitate the discontinuation of CHC use until markers of liver function return to normal. [See Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.3).] 8.7 Renal Impairment. The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of NuvaRing has not been studied.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION.


5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS. Vascular risks: Stop NuvaRing use if thrombotic event occurs. Stop NuvaRing use at least weeks before and through weeks after major surgery. Start no earlier than weeks after delivery, in women who are not breastfeeding. (5.1)Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): If patient exhibits signs or symptoms of TSS, consider the possibility of this diagnosis and initiate appropriate medical evaluation and treatment. (5.2)Liver disease: Discontinue NuvaRing use if jaundice develops. (5.3)High blood pressure: If used in women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure and stop NuvaRing use if blood pressure rises significantly. (5.5)Carbohydrate and lipid metabolic effects: Monitor prediabetic and diabetic women. Consider an alternate contraceptive method for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia. (5.9)Headache: Evaluate significant change in headaches and discontinue NuvaRing use if indicated. (5.10)Uterine bleeding: Evaluate irregular bleeding or amenorrhea. (5.11). Vascular risks: Stop NuvaRing use if thrombotic event occurs. Stop NuvaRing use at least weeks before and through weeks after major surgery. Start no earlier than weeks after delivery, in women who are not breastfeeding. (5.1). Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): If patient exhibits signs or symptoms of TSS, consider the possibility of this diagnosis and initiate appropriate medical evaluation and treatment. (5.2). Liver disease: Discontinue NuvaRing use if jaundice develops. (5.3). High blood pressure: If used in women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure and stop NuvaRing use if blood pressure rises significantly. (5.5). Carbohydrate and lipid metabolic effects: Monitor prediabetic and diabetic women. Consider an alternate contraceptive method for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia. (5.9). Headache: Evaluate significant change in headaches and discontinue NuvaRing use if indicated. (5.10). Uterine bleeding: Evaluate irregular bleeding or amenorrhea. (5.11). 5.1 Thromboembolic Disorders and Other Vascular Problems. Stop NuvaRing use if an arterial thrombotic or venous thromboembolic event (VTE) occurs. Stop NuvaRing use if there is unexplained loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, papilledema, or retinal vascular lesions. Evaluate for retinal vein thrombosis immediately. [See Adverse Reactions (6).] If feasible, stop NuvaRing at least four weeks before and through two weeks after major surgery or other surgeries known to have an elevated risk of thromboembolism, and during and following prolonged immobilization.Start NuvaRing no earlier than weeks after delivery, in women who are not breastfeeding. The risk of postpartum thromboembolism decreases after the third postpartum week, whereas the risk of ovulation increases after the third postpartum week.The use of CHCs increases the risk of VTE. Known risk factors for VTE include smoking, obesity, and family history of VTE, in addition to other factors that contraindicate use of CHCs [see Contraindications (4)]. Two epidemiologic studies1, 2, that assessed the risk of VTE associated with the use of NuvaRing are described below.In these studies, which were required or sponsored by regulatory agencies, NuvaRing users had risk of VTE similar to Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) users (see Table for adjusted hazard ratios). large prospective, observational study, the Transatlantic Active Surveillance on Cardiovascular Safety of NuvaRing (TASC), investigated the risk of VTE for new users, and women who were switching to or restarting NuvaRing or COCs in population that is representative of routine clinical users. The women were followed for 24 to 48 months. The results showed similar risk of VTE among NuvaRing users (VTE incidence 8.3 per 10,000 WY) and women using COCs (VTE incidence 9.2 per 10,000 WY). For women using COCs that did not contain the progestins desogestrel (DSG) or gestodene (GSD), VTE incidence was 8.9 per 10,000 WY.A retrospective cohort study using data from health plans in the US (FDA-funded Study in Kaiser Permanente and Medicaid databases) showed the VTE incidence for new users of NuvaRing to be 11.4 events per 10,000 WY, for new users of levonorgestrel (LNG)-containing COC 9.2 events per 10,000 WY, and for users of other COCs available during the course of the studyIncludes low-dose COCs containing the following progestins: norgestimate, norethindrone, or levonorgestrel. 8.2 events per 10,000 WY.Table 1: Estimates (Hazard Ratios) of Venous Thromboembolism Risk in Users of NuvaRing Compared to Users of Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs)Epidemiologic Study(Author, Year of Publication)Population StudiedComparator Product(s)Hazard Ratios (HR)(95% CI)TASC(Dinger, 2012) Initiators, including new users, switchers and restarters All COCs available during the course of the study Includes low-dose COCs containing the following progestins: chlormadinone acetate, cyproterone acetate, desogestrel, dienogest, drospirenone, ethynodiol diacetate, gestodene, levonorgestrel, norethindrone, norgestimate, or norgestrelCOCs available excluding DSG- or GSD -containing OCsHRAdjusted for age, BMI, duration of use, VTE history: 0.8(0.5-1.5)HR: 0.8(0.4-1.7)FDA-funded Study in Kaiser Permanente and Medicaid databases(Sidney, 2011) First use of combined hormonal contraceptive (CHC) during the study periodCOCs available during the course of the studyIncludes low-dose COCs containing the following progestins: norgestimate, norethindrone, or levonorgestrel HRAdjusted for age, site, year of entry into study: 1.1(0.6-2.2)LNG/0.03 mg ethinyl estradiolHR: 1.0(0.5-2.0)An increased risk of thromboembolic and thrombotic disease associated with the use of CHCs is well-established. Although the absolute VTE rates are increased for users of CHCs compared to non-users, the rates associated with pregnancy are even greater, especially during the post-partum period (see Figure 1).The frequency of VTE in women using CHCs has been estimated to be to 12 cases per 10,000 women-years.The risk of VTE is highest during the first year of CHC use and after restarting CHC following break of at least four weeks. The risk of VTE due to CHCs gradually disappears after use is discontinued.Figure shows the risk of developing VTE for women who are not pregnant and do not use CHCs, for women who use CHCs, for pregnant women, and for women in the postpartum period. To put the risk of developing VTE into perspective: If 10,000 women who are not pregnant and do not use CHCs are followed for one year, between and of these women will develop VTE.Figure 1: Likelihood of Developing VTECHC=combination hormonal contraceptionPregnancy data based on actual duration of pregnancy in the reference studies. Based on model assumption that pregnancy duration is nine months, the rate is to 27 per 10,000 WY.Several epidemiology studies indicate that third generation oral contraceptives, including those containing desogestrel (etonogestrel, the progestin in NuvaRing, is the biologically active metabolite of desogestrel), may be associated with higher risk of VTE than oral contraceptives containing other progestins. Some of these studies indicate an approximate two-fold increased risk. However, data from other studies have not shown this two-fold increase in risk.Use of CHCs also increases the risk of arterial thromboses such as strokes and myocardial infarctions, especially in women with other risk factors for these events. CHCs have been shown to increase both the relative and attributable risks of cerebrovascular events (thrombotic and hemorrhagic strokes). In general, the risk is greatest among older (>35 years of age), hypertensive women who also smoke.Use NuvaRing with caution in women with cardiovascular disease risk factors.. Figure 1. 5.2 Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Cases of TSS have been reported by NuvaRing users. TSS has been associated with tampons and certain barrier contraceptives, and, in some cases the NuvaRing users were also using tampons. causal relationship between the use of NuvaRing and TSS has not been established. If patient exhibits signs or symptoms of TSS, consider the possibility of this diagnosis and initiate appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.. 5.3 Liver Disease. Impaired Liver FunctionDo not use NuvaRing in women with liver disease such as acute viral hepatitis or severe (decompensated) cirrhosis of the liver [see Contraindications (4)]. Acute or chronic disturbances of liver function may necessitate the discontinuation of CHC use until markers of liver function return to normal and CHC causation has been excluded [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. Discontinue NuvaRing use if jaundice develops.. Liver TumorsNuvaRing is contraindicated in women with benign and malignant liver tumors [see Contraindications (4)]. Hepatic adenomas are associated with CHC use. An estimate of the attributable risk is 3.3 cases per 100,000 CHC users. Rupture of hepatic adenomas may cause death through intra-abdominal hemorrhage.Studies have shown an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in long term (>8 years) CHC users. However, the attributable risk of liver cancers in CHC users is less than one case per million users.. 5.4Risk of Liver Enzyme Elevations with Concomitant Hepatitis Treatment. During clinical trials with the Hepatitis combination drug regimen that contains ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with and without dasabuvir, ALT elevations greater than times the upper limit of normal (ULN), including some cases greater than 20 times the ULN, were significantly more frequent in women using ethinyl estradiol-containing medications, such as CHCs. Discontinue NuvaRing prior to starting therapy with the combination drug regimen ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir [see Contraindications (4)]. NuvaRing can be restarted approximately weeks following completion of treatment with the Hepatitis combination drug regimen.. 5.5 High Blood Pressure. NuvaRing is contraindicated in women with uncontrolled hypertension or hypertension with vascular disease [see Contraindications (4)]. For women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure and stop NuvaRing use if blood pressure rises significantly.An increase in blood pressure has been reported in women using CHCs and this increase is more likely in older women and with extended duration of use. The incidence of hypertension increases with increasing concentrations of progestin.. 5.6Hypersensitivity Reactions. Hypersensitivity reactions of anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported during use of NuvaRing. If anaphylaxis and/or angioedema is suspected, NuvaRing should be discontinued and appropriate treatment administered. [See Contraindications (4).] 5.7 Vaginal Use. NuvaRing may not be suitable for women with conditions that make the vagina more susceptible to vaginal irritation or ulceration. Vaginal/cervical erosion or ulceration in women using NuvaRing has been reported. In some cases, the ring adhered to vaginal tissue, necessitating removal by healthcare provider and in some instances (i.e., when the tissue had grown over the ring), removal was achieved by cutting the ring without incising the overlying vaginal tissue.Some women are aware of the ring on occasion during the 21 days of use or during intercourse, and sexual partners may feel NuvaRing in the vagina.. 5.8 Gallbladder Disease. Studies suggest small increased relative risk of developing gallbladder disease among CHC users. Use of CHCs may also worsen existing gallbladder disease.A past history of CHC-related cholestasis predicts an increased risk with subsequent CHC use. Women with history of pregnancy-related cholestasis may be at an increased risk for CHC-related cholestasis.. 5.9 Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolic Effects. Carefully monitor prediabetic and diabetic women who are using NuvaRing. CHCs may decrease glucose tolerance.Consider alternative contraception for women with uncontrolled dyslipidemia. Some women will have adverse lipid changes while on CHCs.Women with hypertriglyceridemia, or family history thereof, may be at an increased risk of pancreatitis when using CHCs.. 5.10 Headache. If woman using NuvaRing develops new headaches that are recurrent, persistent, or severe, evaluate the cause and discontinue NuvaRing if indicated.Consider discontinuation of NuvaRing in the case of an increased frequency or severity of migraine during CHC use (which may be prodromal of cerebrovascular event) [see Contraindications (4)].. 5.11 Bleeding Irregularities and Amenorrhea. Unscheduled Bleeding and SpottingUnscheduled bleeding (breakthrough or intracyclic) bleeding and spotting sometimes occur in women using CHCs, especially during the first three months of use. If bleeding persists or occurs after previously regular cycles, check for causes such as pregnancy or malignancy. If pathology and pregnancy are excluded, bleeding irregularities may resolve over time or with change to different CHC.Bleeding patterns were evaluated in three large clinical studies. In the North American study (US and Canada, N=1,177), the percentages of subjects with breakthrough bleeding/spotting ranged from 7.2% to 11.7% during cycles 1-13. In the two non-US studies, the percentages of subjects with breakthrough bleeding/spotting ranged from 2.6% to 6.4% (Europe, N=1,145) and from 2.0% to 8.7% (Europe, Brazil, Chile, N=512).. Amenorrhea and OligomenorrheaIf scheduled (withdrawal) bleeding does not occur, consider the possibility of pregnancy. If the patient has not adhered to the prescribed dosing schedule, consider the possibility of pregnancy at the time of the first missed period and take appropriate diagnostic measures.Occasional missed periods may occur with the appropriate use of NuvaRing. In the clinical studies, the percent of women who did not have withdrawal bleeding in given cycle ranged from 0.3% to 3.8%.If the patient has adhered to the prescribed regimen and misses two consecutive periods, rule out pregnancy.Some women may experience amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea after discontinuing CHC use, especially when such condition was pre-existent.. 5.12 Inadvertent Urinary Bladder Insertion. There have been reports of inadvertent insertions of NuvaRing into the urinary bladder, which required cystoscopic removal. Assess for ring insertion into the urinary bladder in NuvaRing users who present with persistent urinary symptoms and are unable to locate the ring.. 5.13 Depression. Carefully observe women with history of depression and discontinue NuvaRing use if depression recurs to serious degree.. 5.14 Carcinoma of the Breasts and Cervix. NuvaRing is contraindicated in women who currently have or have had breast cancer because breast cancer is hormonally-sensitive tumor [see Contraindications (4)].There is substantial evidence that CHCs do not increase the incidence of breast cancer. Although some past studies have suggested that CHCs might increase the incidence of breast cancer, more recent studies have not confirmed such findings.Some studies suggest that CHCs are associated with an increase in the risk of cervical cancer or intraepithelial neoplasia. However, there is controversy about the extent to which these findings may be due to differences in sexual behavior and other factors.. 5.15 Effect on Binding Globulins. The estrogen component of CHCs may raise the serum concentrations of thyroxine-binding globulin, sex hormone-binding globulin, and cortisol-binding globulin. The dose of replacement thyroid hormones or cortisol therapy may need to be increased.. 5.16 Monitoring. woman who is using NuvaRing should have yearly visit with her healthcare provider for blood pressure check and for other indicated healthcare.. 5.17 Hereditary Angioedema. In women with hereditary angioedema, exogenous estrogens may induce or exacerbate symptoms of angioedema.. 5.18 Chloasma. Chloasma may occasionally occur, especially in women with history of chloasma gravidarum. Women with tendency to chloasma should avoid exposure to the sun or ultraviolet radiation while using NuvaRing.