NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Evaluating a new injectable contraceptive for women

Official title: A STUDY TO EVALUATE THE PK AND PD OF IM OR SQ INJECTIONS OF LEVONORGESTREL BUTANOATE (LB) FOR FEMALE CONTRACEPTION

Funded at Health Decisions, INC. · NIH-11251139 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new long-lasting birth control shot called levonorgestrel butanoate, which is made for women, especially those who are overweight and may have a higher risk of blood clots, to see how well it works and how it moves through the body, while offering a safer and easier option than taking a pill every day.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHealth Decisions, INC.
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Morrisville, United States)
Project startMay 25, 2023
Project endApril 21, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$875,641
NIH project number75N94019D00004-P00007-759402300002-1
Project IDNIH-11251139 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are women of childbearing age, particularly those who are obese and seeking estrogen-free contraceptive options.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not seeking contraception or those who do not have concerns related to obesity may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a new long-acting injectable contraceptive called levonorgestrel butanoate (LB), designed specifically for women, particularly those who are obese and at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The study aims to assess the pharmacokinetics (how the drug moves through the body) and pharmacodynamics (the effects of the drug) of LB when administered via intramuscular or subcutaneous injections. By providing an estrogen-free option, this contraceptive aims to reduce the risk of VTE while offering a more convenient alternative to daily oral contraceptives. Participants will be monitored for adherence and effectiveness, contributing to the development of safer contraceptive methods.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective contraceptive option for women, especially those who are obese.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with other long-acting contraceptive methods, but this specific injectable formulation is a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Health Decisions, INC.
    Morrisville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Dart, Clint — Health Decisions, INC.
  • Study coordinator: Dart, Clint

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.