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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Mirena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that provides long-term birth control. It's a T-shaped plastic frame inserted into the uterus, where it releases levonorgestrel, a type of hormone progestin. This hormone thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg, thins the uterine lining, and partially suppresses ovulation. Mirena is effective for up to seven years and is FDA-approved.
Mirena is used for contraception for up to 8 years and can be used by women whether or not they have had children. Additionally, it is used for up to 5 years to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in women who opt for intrauterine birth control.
Before you Buy Mirena IUD it is important that you talk to your healthcare provider about its effectiveness and potential side effects.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C21H28O2 |
License | US DailyMed |
Bioavailability | 85–100% |
Legal status | Rx-only |
Chemical Name | Levonorgestrel |
Elimination half-life | 24–32 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 52mg |
Pregnancy | Consult Doctor |
Brands | Mirena |
Protein binding | 98% |
PubChem CID | 13109 |
MedlinePlus | a610021 |
ChEBI | 6443 |
ATC code | G03AC03 |
DrugBank | DB00367 |
KEGG | D00950 |
Routes of administration | Device |
Mirena is inserted through the vagina into the uterus by a doctor. Some pain, dizziness, and minor vaginal bleeding may occur during insertion, and these symptoms should be reported if they persist for more than 30 minutes. After insertion, the IUD should not interfere with sexual intercourse, tampon or menstrual cup use, or other vaginal medications. Regular check-ups, including annual pelvic exams and Pap smears, are recommended. Periods may become irregular for the first 3 to 6 months, and users should notify their doctor if a period is missed for 6 weeks or if pregnancy is suspected. The IUD can come out by itself, so users should check for the removal strings after each menstrual period.
Mirena contains levonorgestrel, a female hormone that can cause changes in the cervix and uterus. It does not contain estrogen. The device consists of a T-shaped polyethylene frame with a steroid reservoir containing 52 mg of levonorgestrel. After insertion, it releases approximately 21 mcg/day of levonorgestrel, which decreases to about 11 mcg/day after five years and 7 mcg/day after eight years.
Mirena should not be used during pregnancy, in cases of abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic infection, certain uterine or cervical problems, breast or uterine cancer, liver disease or liver tumor, or if one has a weak immune system. It should not be used as emergency birth control. If left in place during pregnancy, it could cause severe infection, miscarriage, premature birth, or death of the mother. The hormone in Mirena may also cause unwanted effects in a female newborn. Users should not use Mirena if they are allergic to levonorgestrel, silicone, silica, silver, barium, iron oxide, or polyethylene.
Some drugs can affect blood levels of levonorgestrel, making Mirena less effective. Users should inform their doctor about all their current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Common side effects include pelvic pain, irregular menstrual periods, changes in bleeding patterns or flow, vaginal swelling or infection, pain or bleeding during IUD insertion, ovarian cysts, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, headache, migraine, depression, mood changes, back pain, breast tenderness, weight gain, acne, oily skin, changes in hair growth, loss of interest in sex, and puffiness in the face, hands, ankles, or feet.
Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include allergic reactions, severe lower stomach pain, severe cramps or pelvic pain, extreme dizziness, heavy or ongoing vaginal bleeding, pale skin, weakness, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, jaundice, and sudden numbness or weakness.
Remember, these are not exhaustive lists, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Visit www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088
What is Mirena IUD?
Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD), a small, T-shaped device placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Does Mirena placement hurt?
Placement may cause pain, bleeding, or dizziness. If symptoms persist beyond 30 minutes, Mirena may require repositioning or removal.
Can I use Mirena for less than 8 years?
Yes, Mirena can be removed anytime, but another birth control method should be used if pregnancy is undesired.
Who should not use Mirena?
Mirena is not suitable for those with certain health conditions like untreated pelvic infections, certain cancers, liver disease, or a history of pelvic inflammatory disease.
What are serious side effects of Mirena?
Serious side effects include ectopic pregnancy, life-threatening infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine perforation, and expulsion.
What are common side effects of Mirena?
Common side effects include changes in menstrual bleeding, missed periods, ovarian cysts, abdominal pain, headache, and vaginal discharge.
How does Mirena affect menstrual periods?
Initially, periods may become irregular with potential spotting or light bleeding. Over time, bleeding generally lessens and periods may stop entirely.
Does Mirena protect against HIV or STIs?
No, Mirena does not offer protection against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.
Can tampons or menstrual cups be used with Mirena?
Yes, but care should be taken not to displace Mirena's threads during change.
Is it safe to breastfeed while using Mirena?
Breastfeeding is generally safe with Mirena, though a slight risk of decreased milk production and increased risk of uterine perforation during breastfeeding exists.