EU Regulator Warns Desogestrel and Etonogestrel Contraceptives Carry Small Brain Tumor Risk

The European Medicines Agency has warned that contraceptives containing desogestrel and etonogestrel carry a small increased risk of meningioma, a typically non-cancerous brain tumor, with prolonged use. Based on a French study, the regulator states the overall risk is very low, at one extra case per 67,300 users. Product labels will be updated, and women with a history of meningioma are advised not to use these products.

Meningioma risk findings

• ▪An EMA safety committee warned on July 10, 2026, that contraceptives with desogestrel and etonogestrel carry a small increased risk of meningioma with prolonged use.
• ▪The tumor risk may be higher for women who previously took other progestogens linked to meningioma, including cyproterone, nomegestrol, medroxyprogesterone and chlormadinone.
• ▪The risk of developing a meningioma increases with the duration of use of the affected contraceptives.
• ▪Meningiomas are usually non-cancerous tumors that develop in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• ▪The EMA's recommendations are based on a large French epidemiological study.

Affected contraceptive products

• ▪The warning applies to hormonal contraceptives containing the synthetic progestins desogestrel or etonogestrel.
• ▪Desogestrel-containing contraceptives are sold as oral tablets, while etonogestrel is used in implants and vaginal rings.

EMA safety recommendations

• ▪Healthcare providers must monitor patients taking the medicines for symptoms such as vision changes, hearing loss, worsening headaches, and seizures.
• ▪The EMA committee recommended that women with a current or previous history of meningioma should not use contraceptives with desogestrel or etonogestrel.

Risk magnitude statistics

• ▪The overall likelihood of developing meningioma from these contraceptives is considered very low.
• ▪An estimated one additional case of meningioma is expected for every 67,300 women using the medicines.

Product label updates

• ▪The updated product labels will also include new warnings and contraindications.
• ▪Product labels for the affected contraceptives will be updated to list meningioma as a side effect of unknown frequency.

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