Effects of a subdermal levonorgestrel contraceptive implant (Norplant) on serum cholesterol, triglycerides, ALT and AST in Iranian women

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the effects of Norplant (36 mg of levonorgestrel, six capsules) on serum cholesterol, triglycerides, alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transminase (AST), we enrolled 465 healthy women from Zahedan, Iran, into a longitudinal study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast before implant insertion and after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of use. RESULTS: Total cholesterol and triglyceride levels did not significantly change during Norplant use. Although there were statistically significant increases in ALT and AST levels during Norplant use, the values were within the reference range.