Evra 6mg/600mcg Transdermal Patch

Evra 6mg/600mcg Transdermal Patch is a combined hormonal contraceptive patch releasing norelgestromin (a progestogen) and ethinylestradiol (an estrogen) continuously through the skin, worn weekly to prevent pregnancy as an alternative to daily oral contraceptive pills for women who prefer a once-weekly method.

As a prescription-only hormonal contraceptive in Malaysia, Evra requires an online consultation with a doctor through DoctorOnCall before it can be dispensed, so your medical history, cardiovascular risk factors, and suitability for combined hormonal contraception can be properly assessed and a prescription issued before use begins.

Norelgestromin and ethinylestradiol are absorbed continuously through the skin into the bloodstream, working together to prevent pregnancy mainly by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm entry, and thinning the lining of the womb, providing steady contraceptive hormone levels across each 7-day wear period.

Apply one patch to clean, dry, intact skin on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper torso, avoiding the breasts and any irritated, cut, or broken skin, pressing firmly for about 10 seconds to ensure good adhesion, and replace with a new patch on the same day each week for 3 weeks, followed by one patch-free week before starting the next cycle, exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

One patch is worn continuously for 7 days and replaced on the same ‘patch change day’ for 3 consecutive weeks (21 days total), followed by a 7-day patch-free week during which a withdrawal bleed usually occurs, after which a new 4-week cycle begins; do not extend wear beyond 7 days per patch or leave more than 7 days patch-free without medical advice.

Evra patches are generally stable for up to 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored correctly and unopened in their protective sachet; always check the expiry date printed on the sachet and carton before use.

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, keep each patch sealed in its original protective sachet until immediately before application, and keep out of reach and sight of children, noting that used patches still contain active hormone and should be folded sticky-side inward and disposed of carefully.

• Women who smoke and are over 35 years of age
• History of venous or arterial thromboembolism (blood clots), including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, or heart attack
• Migraine with aura
• Uncontrolled or severe high blood pressure
• Certain liver tumours or severe liver disease
• Known or suspected pregnancy, or undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Known or suspected hormone-dependent breast or other cancer

• Enzyme-inducing medicines such as certain anticonvulsants (phenytoin, carbamazepine), rifampicin, and some antiretroviral medicines may reduce contraceptive effectiveness
• St John’s Wort may reduce hormone levels and increase the risk of breakthrough bleeding
• Certain antibiotics have historically been discussed in relation to reduced contraceptive reliability; inform your doctor of all antibiotics prescribed
• Applying oils, lotions, creams, or powders to the patch site may reduce adhesion and should be avoided

• Apply your new patch on the same day each week to keep the schedule consistent
• Check the patch daily to make sure it remains firmly attached
• Rotate the application site each week to reduce skin irritation
• Do not apply the patch to the breasts or to irritated or broken skin
• Use a backup contraceptive method if a patch is left off for 24 hours or more
• Report new leg swelling, chest pain, severe headache, or visual disturbances to your doctor promptly

Because Evra is a prescription hormonal contraceptive, your prescribing doctor through DoctorOnCall will review your suitability periodically, including blood pressure checks and a discussion of any new health changes, smoking status, or medicines started since your last consultation, to confirm continued safety of combined hormonal contraception.