ANSM notifies 1.6 million women of meningioma risk from desogestrel

The French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) is sending notification letters to approximately 1.6 million women regarding a potential increased risk of developing meningiomas associated with desogestrel-based contraceptives.

The campaign targets adult women who have obtained contraceptives containing 75 micrograms of desogestrel alone within the last 12 months. Specific brands mentioned include Antigone, Cerazette, Elfasette, and Optimizette, as well as various generics. The agency emphasizes that the risk is considered “low” and does not recommend an immediate cessation of treatment, but rather encourages regular reassessment of contraception.

A 2024 study by the Epi-Phare scientific interest group indicated that one in 67,000 women using the contraceptive develops a meningioma, a figure that rises to one in 17,000 after five years of treatment. The risk is noted to be higher for women over 45 and those with prior exposure to certain progestogens. The increased risk appears to disappear one year after stopping the medication.

Users are advised to consult a physician if they experience persistent headaches, visual disturbances, muscle weakness, balance or speech issues, memory loss, or new or worsening epilepsy. Medical professionals and midwives have also been notified.