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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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Exp 50 years

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Reason For Itchy Lump On The Arm At The Site Of Implanon Contraceptive Implant

I have had an itchy lump on the my arm at the site of my implanon contraceptive implant on and off since it was inserted (this is my second year on my second implant) usually it goes away but this time it has changed into two lumps and is incredibly itchy. What s going on?
posted on Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Twitter Wed, 11 Nov 2020 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 17 Nov 2020 Last reviewed on
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

The contraceptive implant as you probably know, releases a slow amount of an estrogen compound. This can often times cause a very mild and local allergic reaction at the actual site of the implant. Since the hormone is constantly being released the allergic reaction and secondarily the itchiness continues to persist for as long as the implant is present.

This is rather is tough scenario, the implant can not easily be removed and the reaction unfortunately will persist for as long as it is present. Over the counter Benadryl does work for this to alleviate the itchiness but that is obviously not a long term option. One consideration might be to try a 24 hour anti-histamine like Claritin which, while not as potent, may be sufficient to lessen the symptoms without causing excessive sedation.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. David Girardi, Internal Medicine Specialist
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Reason For Itchy Lump On The Arm At The Site Of Implanon Contraceptive Implant

Hi, The contraceptive implant as you probably know, releases a slow amount of an estrogen compound. This can often times cause a very mild and local allergic reaction at the actual site of the implant. Since the hormone is constantly being released the allergic reaction and secondarily the itchiness continues to persist for as long as the implant is present. This is rather is tough scenario, the implant can not easily be removed and the reaction unfortunately will persist for as long as it is present. Over the counter Benadryl does work for this to alleviate the itchiness but that is obviously not a long term option. One consideration might be to try a 24 hour anti-histamine like Claritin which, while not as potent, may be sufficient to lessen the symptoms without causing excessive sedation. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. David Girardi, Internal Medicine Specialist