Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 11/27/2025

Mirena Adverse Drug Reactions

Menstrual Bleeding Changes

  • Many women (approximately 64%) experience amenorrhea or infrequent bleeding over the first 2 years, which is generally considered a therapeutic benefit rather than a harmful effect 1
  • Approximately 15% report frequent or prolonged bleeding, particularly in the first 3-6 months 1
  • Unscheduled spotting or light bleeding is common, especially initially, and typically decreases with continued use 2, 3
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends considering screening for STIs, particularly in adolescents, when unscheduled bleeding occurs 1, 2

Systemic Adverse Effects

  • Acne is frequently reported 1, 2
  • Breast tenderness is commonly reported 1
  • Weight gain is a possible adverse effect 1, 2

Post-Insertion Complications

  • There is a small risk of pelvic infection limited to the first 20-21 days after insertion 4, 5
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends awareness of this condition to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions 4

Drug Interactions

  • Efficacy may be impaired by hepatic enzyme-inducing drugs acting on the cytochrome P450 pathway 1, 2
  • The World Health Organization recommends caution with efavirenz (HIV medication), nevirapine, and most protease inhibitors 4
  • Contraceptive failures have been described in women receiving efavirenz-containing antiretroviral therapy 4

Contraindications

  • Current or recent (past 3 months) pelvic inflammatory disease is an absolute contraindication 4, 5
  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends enhanced pre-insertion counseling about expected bleeding patterns to reduce discontinuation rates 1, 6