name | Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) |
classification | Contraceptive device |
Pharmacokinetics | Not applicable. A copper IUD works by its local effect within the uterus, not by systemic absorption. Therefore, there's no systemic pharmacokinetic profile. |
suggested dosage | A copper IUD is a one-time placement by a healthcare professional. |
indications | 1 | Contraception | 2 | Treatment of menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding) in some cases |
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safety in pregnancy | **Absolutely contraindicated**. Removal is essential if pregnancy occurs. |
safety in breastfeeding | Safe for use during breastfeeding. |
side effects | 1 | Increased menstrual bleeding and cramping in the first few months (often subsides with time) | 2 | Pelvic pain | 3 | Spotting or bleeding between periods | 4 | Infection risk (low if inserted by trained professional) | 5 | Expulsion risk | 6 | Possible uterine perforation (rare) |
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alternatives | |
contraindications | 1 | Known or suspected pregnancy | 2 | Uterine abnormalities (e.g., fibroids that distort the uterine cavity significantly) | 3 | Active pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) | 4 | Known uterine or cervical cancer or suspected malignancy | 5 | History of ectopic pregnancy | 6 | Severe uterine bleeding of unknown cause | 7 | Allergy to copper or any components of the device |
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interactions | No known drug interactions in the traditional sense, as it's a physical device. |
warnings | 1 | Proper insertion technique is crucial to avoid complications. Must be performed by a trained healthcare provider. | 2 | Regular check-ups are important to ensure the device remains in place and functioning correctly. | 3 | Possible expulsion risk, especially in the first few months of use. Patient should be advised of this. |
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precautions | 1 | Patient history of previous pelvic infections or surgeries may warrant additional precautions. | 2 | Proper patient counseling regarding the possible side effects and what to look for. | 3 | Potential risk of perforating the uterus during insertion, particularly in patients with a small or deformed uterus. |
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additional informations | 1 | The efficacy of copper IUD is very high (more than 99%). | 2 | It's a long-term reversible method of contraception. | 3 | It can stay in place for up to 10 years. | 4 | There is no systemic drug interaction. Side effects are mainly related to local uterine effects. |
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patient specific considerations | age | 25 | weight | 70 | male patient | Not applicable - The copper IUD is a contraceptive device and has no impact on a male patient. This information is provided for a female patient. |
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