Should I stop using Xulane if I get a rash?
Xulane is a weekly birth control patch containing norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol. The Xulane patch is worn for three weeks out of every four.
Common side effects of Xulane include rashes, skin irritation, redness, swelling or itching at the site where the patch is applied on the upper outer arm, stomach, buttock or back.
It’s important to remember that if you stop using your Xulane patch it will no longer protect against pregnancy, so don’t just stop using Xulane because of a rash without discussing it with your doctor first.
To help prevent a rash follow the instructions for use that come with Xulane
To help prevent a reaction from occurring, the Xulane patch should not be placed on cut or irritated skin, or in the same location that the previous patch was applied. The skin should be clean, dry and free from powder, make-up, creams, lotions and oils. Always follow the instructions for use that come with Xulane when applying or replacing a patch.
What to do if Xulane causes a rash
If a rash develops that requires the removal of the patch, then the patch can be removed and a new, replacement patch applied at another suitable site on the body. More commonly a new patch is applied if the existing patch won’t stick down securely for some reason.
If rashes continue to develop at the site where you apply your Xulane patch then consult your doctor to discuss whether Xulane is the right birth control method for you. Some women have to stop using birth control patches because they cause skin irritation.
Always contact your doctor straight away if the rash is severe or otherwise concerning.
References
- DailyMed. Xulane - norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol patch. Updated February 4, 2021. Available at: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo. [Accessed May 26, 2021].
Read next
Twirla vs Xulane: How do they compare?
Twirla and Xulane are weekly birth control patches that are used to prevent pregnancy. They are both combination products containing an estrogen and progestin, however, the products contain different progestins and have slight differences in their appearance, efficacy and side effects profile. Continue reading
Can you start the Xulane patch anytime?
When you start the Xulane patch varies based on if you are currently using a form of hormonal birth control, if you’ve recently had a baby or other circumstances. Choose the start time for the patch that best fits your situation. In all cases, follow your doctor's instructions exactly for use of the Xulane patch. Continue reading
Can you get pregnant on the Xulane patch?
Yes, you can still get pregnant using Xulane patch (ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin transdermal), although your chances are much lower if you use it correctly. The patch is 99% effective when used as directed, according to the manufacturer. Continue reading
See also:
Related medical questions
- How does the Xulane patch work?
- Where do you place the Xulane patch?
- What is the Benadryl hat man?
- Can you take hydroxyzine for anxiety and sleep?
- Can you use hydrocortisone cream for vulvar itching?
- How Fast Does Benadryl Work? Onset Time and Duration
- Should gabapentin be taken with food?
- Does Benadryl make you sleepy?
- Does Benadryl help with or cause anxiety?
- After taking medicine to treat threadworm 7 days ago, is it normal for dead worms to be present?
- Is triamcinolone good for poison ivy?
- Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride vs Citrate: What's the difference?
- Can dogs take hydroxyzine?
- Can you take Benadryl while pregnant?
- What Vaccines do I need if I'm over 50?
- Poison Ivy
- Does Mavyret cause itching?
- Pink Eye - what you need to know
- I have Mpox: What should I do?
- Can antibiotics delay or make your period late?
- What are my birth control options and how effective are they?
- How long do antibiotics affect birth control?
- Why are my nipples sore? 7 possible causes
- What should I expect after a Mirena IUD removal?
- What are the signs that Plan B didn't work?
- Can you have sex after taking Plan B?
- Do antibiotics affect the morning after pill?
- What are the side effects of IUDs?
- Birth control failure rates - the Pearl Index explained
- When do I start taking Diane pills for birth control?
Drug information
- Xulane Information for Consumers
- Xulane prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Xulane (detailed)
- Xulane user reviews (494)
Related support groups
- Xulane (10 questions, 57 members)
- Pruritus (187 questions, 322 members)
- Birth Control (467 questions, 3,681 members)
- Contraception (237 questions, 1,063 members)
- Skin Rash (142 questions, 446 members)