CYCLOFEM®

- The Monthly Injectable Contraceptive -

Cyclofem® represents one of the most modern regular hormonal contraceptives. It belongs to the new class of CICs, Combined Injectable Contraceptives. This group name classifies hormonal contraceptives administered by intramuscular injection. The term "combined" indicates that these injectables contain both a progestin and an estrogen.

A CIC like Cyclofem® has the progestin component Medroxy - Progesterone - Acetate (MPA) in common with progestin-only injectables, however, the progestin dose received over time is much lower with Cyclofem® than with these progestin-only injectables. A basic difference between CIC's and progestin-only products is the presence of estrogens; the estrogen is designed to improve the control of the menstrual cycle so that regular menstrual bleedings are observed, which is an important aspect for many women when it comes to the choice of their contraceptive.

As the CIC Cyclofem® is a combined hormonal contraceptive, also many oral contraceptives are combined hormonal contraceptives, COC's, combined oral contraceptives. From a safety point of view the most important difference between the two classes of contraceptives is the presence of a "natural" estrogen in Cyclofem® versus synthetic estrogens in COC's.It is now recognized that natural estrogens have very favorable effects on lipid metabolism and cardiovascular function. Estradiol has direct effects on the arterial wall and on various stages of atherosclerotic plaque formation, resulting in an increase of tissue blood flow and in an anti-atherosclerotic effect. For an in-depth fact sheet about CIC use please see the chapter on CIC's in the latest edition of the WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use.
The brand names that the Concept Foundation registered internationally for its combined injectable contraceptive are Cyclofem®, Cyclofemina®, and Novafem®. Pharmacia Pharmaceuticals, Peapack NJ, had launched its product under the license from Concept Foundation with their own brand name Lunelle® in the US market.