Net-EN contraceptive injections contain:

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

NET-EN is the brand name for an injectable contraceptive.
Its active hormonal ingredient is Norethisterone Enanthate, which is a type of progestin.
This formulation is administered as a 200 mg intramuscular injection every 2 months (60 days).
It works by preventing ovulation and altering cervical mucus to block sperm.
Unlike combined contraceptives, it does not contain estrogen.

Option A: This is a fabricated and nonsensical term. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter, and nonoxynol is a spermicide; they are not combined or used in NET-EN.
Option B: Norepinephrine is a catecholamine that functions as a hormone and neurotransmitter. It is not related to the progestin hormone used in NET-EN.
Option D: This is a fabricated term. While estradiol is a type of estrogen used in some contraceptives, NET-EN is specifically a progestin-only injectable.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Composition of injectable hormonal contraceptives as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in counseling patients on family planning methods. Accurate knowledge of different contraceptives, including their composition, schedule, and side effects, is essential for patient education.
Understanding the difference between progestin-only (like NET-EN and DMPA) and combined hormonal contraceptives is vital, as contraindications differ (e.g., progestin-only methods are often preferred for breastfeeding mothers).
What if? A patient wants an injectable contraceptive but desires a less frequent dosing schedule than every two months. The nurse should discuss Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA), which is administered every three months, as an alternative.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of pharmacology and family planning methods.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'Net-EN'.
Recall or deduce that 'NET-EN' is an abbreviation for a specific chemical compound used in contraception.
Systematically evaluate the options. The abbreviation 'NET-EN' strongly hints at 'Norethisterone Enanthate'.
Eliminate the other options by identifying their components as incorrect. 'Norepinephrine' is a neurotransmitter, 'nonoxynol' is a spermicide, and 'estradiol' is an estrogen, which is not in this progestin-only formulation.
Confirm that 'Norethisterone enanthate' is the correct full name for the active ingredient in NET-EN.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 197-199

Practise the full DSSSB 14 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.