What is the difference between Nexplanon and Implanon?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on March 23, 2020.

Official Answer
by Drugs.comThe brand name product Implanon is no longer commercially available in the U.S., and has been replaced by Nexplanon.
Nexplanon and Implanon are both long-acting, reversible hormonal contraceptive implants that contain etonogestrel, a hormone that prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). Etonogestrel, a progestin hormone, leads to changes in the cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. Etonogestrel is slowly released from a small plastic rod implanted in the skin of your upper arm.
Why is Nexplanon radiopaque? The Nexplanon implant is radiopaque because it contains a small amount of barium sulfate so that the implant can be seen by your doctor with an X-ray or other imaging tool. Being radiopaque is an advantage as physicians can verify presence of the implant after insertion. The rod can remain in place and provide continuous contraception for up to 3 years.
Related Medical Questions
- When will I get my first period after inserting the Implanon implant?
- Why are my nipples sore? 7 possible causes
- Do antibiotics affect the morning after pill?
- What are the side effects of IUDs?
- Can antibiotics delay or make your period late?
- When do I start taking Diane pills for birth control?
- Can Kyleena cause weight gain?
- After having a Kyleena insertion, how long do I have to wait to have intercourse?
- Is this normal - spotting and stomach cramps from starting birth control pills?
- Can Kyleena cause acne?
- Mirena, Kyleena, Skyla & Liletta - What's the difference?
- Why are the Trinessa birth control pills colored differently for different weeks? When do I start?
- How long after having a Depo Provera shot can you have unprotected sex?
- Twirla vs Xulane: How do they compare?
- Is it okay to take Vyvanse while on birth control?
Drug Information
Related Support Groups
- Nexplanon (80 questions, 859 members)
- Implanon (41 questions, 682 members)
- Birth Control (416 questions, 3599 members)
- Contraception (182 questions, 1025 members)