Evra Patch

What is Evra Patch?

Evra Patch is a combined hormonal contraceptive (CHC) containing two active substances: norelgestromin (a progestogen) and ethinylestradiol (an oestrogen). It is presented as a thin, beige transdermal patch designed to deliver hormones through the skin over 7 days.

Mechanism of Action

Evra Patch works through three primary mechanisms to prevent pregnancy:

• Prevents Ovulation: The hormones suppress the release of eggs from the ovaries
• Thickens Cervical Mucus: Creates a barrier that makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus
• Thins Uterine Lining: Makes the womb lining less receptive to implantation

Think of the Evra Patch as a continuous, low-dose hormone delivery system that works around the clock for 7 days, maintaining consistent hormone levels without daily pill-taking.

What is Evra Patch Used For?

Evra Patch is indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in women of reproductive age.

Target Patient Population

Before Using Evra Patch

A comprehensive medical assessment is required before starting Evra Patch. According to NHS prescribing guidelines, your clinician will assess:

Medical History Assessment

• Personal or family history of blood clots (venous/arterial thrombosis)
• History of heart disease, stroke, or migraines (especially with aura)
• Breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers
• Liver disease or liver tumours
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

Required Baseline Tests

1. Blood pressure measurement
2. BMI calculation
3. Smoking status assessment
4. Medical history review
5. Breast examination if indicated

Evra Patch Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications (DO NOT USE)

• History of venous/arterial thrombosis (DVT, PE, stroke, heart attack)
• Migraine with aura
• Current or history of breast cancer or liver tumours
• Severe liver disease
• Allergy to norelgestromin, ethinylestradiol or patch ingredients
• Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• Smoking and age over 35 years

Special Warnings & Precautions

Special Population Considerations

Adolescents (Under 18)

• Can be used after menarche (first period)
• Not studied specifically but can be prescribed based on individual need
• Requires parental consent if under 16 in most cases

Women Over 35

• Can be used if non-smoker
• Increased cardiovascular risk with age
• Regular cardiovascular assessment recommended

Hepatic Impairment

• Contraindicated in severe liver disease
• Use with caution in mild-moderate impairment

Evra Patch and Other Medicines

Significant interactions requiring monitoring or additional contraception:

Medicines That Reduce Evra's Effectiveness

• Enzyme inducers: Rifampicin, griseofulvin, certain anti-epileptics (phenytoin, carbamazepine, topiramate, barbiturates)
• HIV/HCV medications: Protease inhibitors, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
• Herbal remedies: St. John's wort
• Others: Bosentan

Effect can last up to 28 days after stopping the interacting medicine. Use additional barrier contraception during and after treatment with these medicines.

Evra May Affect Other Medicines

• May reduce lamotrigine levels (increasing seizure risk)
• May affect ciclosporin levels
• May affect laboratory test results

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Pregnancy

• CONTRAINDICATED during pregnancy
• Stop Evra immediately if pregnancy occurs
• No known benefit and potential risk to the foetus

Breastfeeding

• CONTRAINDICATED during breastfeeding
• Oestrogens can reduce milk production
• May pass into breast milk
• Use progestogen-only contraception instead

Driving & Machine Operation

• Evra Patch has no known direct influence on driving ability
• Caution advised if experiencing side effects such as:
  • Dizziness
  • Migraine
  • Visual disturbances
• Do not drive or operate machinery if experiencing these symptoms

Evra Patch Ingredients

Active Substances

• Norelgestromin (6 mg per patch)
• Ethinylestradiol (600 µg per patch)

Excipients

Allergen Warning

• If you have known allergies to adhesive plasters or any listed ingredients, inform your doctor
• Patch contains latex-free adhesive

How to Use Evra Patch

Standard 4-Week Cycle

1. Week 1 (Day 1): Apply first patch to clean, dry skin on buttock, abdomen, upper arm, or upper back
2. Week 2 (Day 8): Remove old patch, apply new patch to different area
3. Week 3 (Day 15): Remove old patch, apply new patch to different area
4. Week 4 (Days 22-28): Patch-free week - your period should occur
5. Next Cycle (Day 29): Apply new patch on your "Patch Change Day"

Application Sites

• Recommended: Buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm, upper back
• Avoid: Breasts, irritated or cut skin, areas with tight clothing friction
• Rotate: Use different area each week to prevent skin irritation

Evra Patch Dosage Guidelines

Standard Administration Schedule

Important Timing Rules

• Apply new patch on same day each week ("Patch Change Day")
• Never go more than 7 days without a patch
• Maximum continuous use: 6 patches (6 weeks) before patch-free week

Administration Instructions

Step-by-step application guide:

Patch Application

1. Wash and dry skin thoroughly
2. Open foil sachet by tearing (do not use scissors)
3. Remove patch from sachet
4. Peel away half of clear protective covering
5. Apply sticky side to skin
6. Remove other half of covering
7. Press firmly with palm for 10 seconds
8. Ensure edges are firmly stuck

Skin Preparation

• Skin must be clean, dry, hairless, and intact
• Avoid creams, oils, lotions, or powders on application site
• Do not apply to red, irritated, or cut skin
• Check daily that patch hasn't fallen off

Missed Dose (Patch) Management

General Principles

• Do NOT apply more than one patch at a time
• If patch falls off, replace immediately

Time-Based Guidance

Overdose Information

Symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting
• Vaginal bleeding
• Breast tenderness

Management

1. Remove all patches immediately
2. Seek medical attention
3. Bring medication packaging
4. Symptomatic treatment only (no specific antidote)

Possible Side Effects

Very Common (more than 1 in 10 people)

• Headache
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness/pain

Common (1 in 10 to 1 in 100 people)

• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Vaginal thrush
• Skin reactions at application site (redness, irritation, itching)
• Stomach ache, bloating
• Weight gain
• Changes in menstrual bleeding

Serious Side Effects

You can report side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

How to Store Evra Patch

Storage Conditions

• Store below 25°C
• Keep in original container to protect from light and moisture
• Do not refrigerate or freeze
• Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets

Disposal

• Fold used patch in half (sticky sides together)
• Place in original sachet or household waste
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not flush down toilet

Pack Information

Pack Sizes

• 3 patches (1 month supply)
• 9 patches (3 month supply)
• 18 patches (6 month supply)

Components

• Individual foil-lined sachets
• Patches wrapped per three in transparent perforated plastic film
• Patient information leaflet included

Marketing Authorisation

• Holder: Gedeon Richter Plc, Hungary
• Manufacturer: Janssen Pharmaceutical NV, Belgium
• PL Number: PL 33590/0002

Where Can I Buy Evra Patch Online in the UK