Nexplanon vs. Depo-Provera
See how Nexplanon and Depo-Provera compare on approved uses, dosing, side effects, and cost.
Medically reviewed by Andre Stone | MD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine on September 8th, 2026.
Key Takeaways
Nexplanon is a matchstick-sized rod placed under the skin of the arm that prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years with no daily action needed.
Depo-Provera is an injection given about every 3 months. A healthcare professional administers the FDA-approved products; some clinicians may recommend self-injection of the subcutaneous form as an off-label option.
Both are progestin-only options, but Depo-Provera carries a boxed warning for bone mineral density loss that Nexplanon does not. Neither method protects against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections, so condoms may still be needed for infection prevention.
Nexplanon vs. Depo-Provera Drug Summary
Nexplanon
Nexplanon is a progestin-only contraceptive implant, a thin rod placed under the skin of the upper arm that prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years. It releases a steady low dose of etonogestrel and requires no daily or weekly action once inserted.
Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera is a progestin injection given every 3 months to prevent pregnancy. It contains medroxyprogesterone acetate and is delivered by injection into the muscle or, in a lower-dose version, under the skin.
Nexplanon vs. Depo-Provera Side Effects
Nexplanon
Depo-Provera
Nexplanon vs. Depo-Provera Dosage
Nexplanon
Depo-Provera
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 1 implant, 68 mg | Day 1 |
| Maximum dose | 1 implant, 68 mg | Same as starting |
| Dose changes | None | Fixed dose |
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 150 mg injection | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 150 mg injection | Same as starting |
| Dose changes | None | Fixed dose |
Nexplanon
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 1 implant, 68 mg | Day 1 |
| Maximum dose | 1 implant, 68 mg | Same as starting |
| Dose changes | None | Fixed dose |
Depo-Provera
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 150 mg injection | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 150 mg injection | Same as starting |
| Dose changes | None | Fixed dose |
Nexplanon vs. Depo-Provera Indications
Nexplanon
Nexplanon is FDA-approved for long-acting reversible contraception. It is placed once and works continuously for up to 3 years without any action from the patient.
Prevention of pregnancy for up to 3 years
No daily, weekly, or monthly action required
Reversible by removal at any time
Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera is FDA-approved for prevention of pregnancy through repeat injections. It is not recommended as a long-term method beyond 2 years unless other options are inadequate, due to bone loss risk.
Prevention of pregnancy, given every 3 months
Available as intramuscular or subcutaneous injection
Not recommended for continuous use beyond 2 years
Nexplanon vs. Depo-Provera Pros and Cons
Nexplanon
Nexplanon offers the longest stretch of set-it-and-forget-it protection among hormonal methods, but it requires a brief in-office procedure for placement and removal. Its higher upfront list price can be a barrier without insurance coverage.
Pros
Lasts up to 3 years with no user action needed
No boxed warning for bone density loss
Fertility typically returns quickly after removal
Cons
Requires a minor in-office insertion and removal procedure
Rod may be visible or palpable under the skin
Higher list price, roughly $1,030 to $1,275 per month equivalent
Only available through providers trained under a REMS program
Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera offers a lower-cost option that avoids any visible device, but it carries a boxed warning for bone density loss with prolonged use. Return to fertility after stopping can also take longer than with other methods.
Pros
Lower cost, roughly $20 to $45 per month equivalent
No visible or palpable device
Subcutaneous version can be self-administered at home
Cons
Boxed warning for bone density loss with long-term use
Return to fertility can take several months after stopping
Requires a new injection every 3 months to stay effective
Not recommended for continuous use beyond 2 years
Common Symptoms and Related Diseases You Can Explore
Explore a range of common symptoms the Doctronic Symptom Checker can help you understand.