The effects of nomegestrol acetate subdermal implant (Uniplant (R)) on serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoproteins in Nigerian users

The study was conducted to assess the effects of a nomegestrol acetate subd ermal contraceptive implant (Uniplant(R)) on the lipid profiles of indigeno us Nigerian women. Cholesterol content of the major lipoproteins, along wit h total cholesterol and triglycerides, were measured in fasting blood sampl es collected before implant insertion and then at months 1, 3, 6, and 12 of use. All volunteers were of the reproductive age, healthy, and had no cont raindications to hormonal contraception. The mean levels of cholesterol and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL -C) increased gradually, albeit insignificantly, from insertion to month 12 of implant use. An initial decline in the mean levels of high density lipo protein-cholesterol (HDL-C), reaching a minimal level (37.31 +/- 4.95 mg/dl ) at month 3 of implant use, was observed. This was followed by a gradual r ise that peaked (39.73 +/- 5.53 mg/dL) at month 12. These values were, howe ver, not significantly different from the preinsertion value. The only sign ificant difference (p < 0.005) was in the mean level of triglycerides at mo nth 12 (90.90 +/- 17.75 mg/dL) when compared with the preinsertion mean lev el of 81.77 +/- 24.24 mg/dL. Both values were, however, within normal limit s. These results indicate that Uniplant does not have a deleterious effect on the lipid profiles of Nigerian acceptors and can be safely prescribed to women seeking contraception. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights res erved.