Pharmacokinetics of Norelgestromin and Ethinyl Estradiol Delivered by a Contraceptive Patch (Ortho Evra™/Evra™) under Conditions of Heat, Humidity, and Exercise

The objectives of this randomized, open‐label, three‐period, incomplete block design study were to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of norelgestromin (NGMN) and ethinyl estradiol (EE) delivered by the contraceptive patch, Ortho EvraTM/EvraTM, and to evaluate patch adhesion under conditions of heat, humidity, and exercise. During each treatment period, 30 healthy women wore Ortho EvraTM on the abdomen for 7 days under one of six conditions (normal activity, sauna, whirlpool, treadmill, cool water immersion, ora combination of activities). Blood samples were collected before and several times to 240 hours after patch application. Mean serum concentrations of NGMN and EE generally remained within the reference ranges, 0.6 to 1.2 ng/ml and 25 to 75 pg/ml, respectively, duringthe 7‐day wear period for all activities. Only 1 (1.1%) of 87 patches completely detached spontaneously. Peel force measurements were comparable for all activities. Ortho EvraTM was well tolerated. In conclusion, Ortho EvraTM delivers efficacious concentrations of NGMN and EE and maintains adhesive reliability through 7 days of wear even under conditions of heat, humidity, and exercise.