Nova-T 380

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Nova-T 380

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Nova-T 380

Property Description
Active ingredient Copper (Cu), Silver (Ag)
Form Intrauterine Device (IUD)
Pharmacological class Non-hormonal contraceptive
Common use Long-term pregnancy prevention
Origin Synthetic/Hybrid

What Type of Contraceptive Device is Nova-T 380?

Nova-T 380 is fundamentally classified as a non-hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD), placing it within the category of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC). Its route of administration is strictly intrauterine. It belongs to the pharmacological classification of copper-containing intrauterine systems. This designation highlights its localized action, which is clinically recognized for providing highly effective contraception without the introduction of synthetic hormones.

This device is a synthetic construct, combining a polymer frame with chemically active metal, a characteristic that differentiates it from hormonal IUDs and oral contraceptives. This non-systemic intervention offers a valuable option for women of childbearing age who are seeking reliable, reversible pregnancy prevention while needing or preferring to avoid hormonal treatments.

Composition and Form: The Copper and Silver IUD

The device consists of a Polyethylene T-frame that is wrapped with a fine Copper wire, which represents the primary active ingredient. The specific total surface area of the exposed Copper is precisely 380 mm^2. This feature is a key differentiator regarding its extended functional longevity.

The frame includes Barium Sulfate to ensure the device is radiopaque, facilitating its position verification. Crucially, a stabilizing Silver core is integrated within the copper coil. This specialized composition is engineered to preserve the structural integrity and continuous function of the Copper component, ensuring its efficacy as a long-acting contraceptive.

General Purpose of Nova-T 380

The general therapeutic purpose of Nova-T 380 is long-term, highly effective contraception in women of childbearing age. The device fulfills this purpose through two mechanisms: the continuous release of Copper ions, which exerts potent, localized spermicidal action that inhibits fertilization, and the induction of a foreign body reaction that makes the uterine lining unsuitable for implantation. These combined physiological actions confirm its medical recognition as a reliable, hormone-free method of pregnancy prevention.

Regulatory References

  1. distinction recognized by regulatory bodies
  2. highly effective contraception in women of childbearing age

What side effects are possible with Nova-T 380?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of this non-hormonal copper intrauterine device is primarily characterized by localized effects within the reproductive system, as detailed in official government regulatory documents.

Official Adverse Reactions by Frequency and System-Organ Class

Adverse reactions are classified by the physiological system affected. The most Common effects, which are frequent reasons documented for discontinuation, include increased menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and menstrual cramping (dysmenorrhoea). Persistent blood loss can lead to the development of anemia. Other reported effects include spotting and lower abdominal or back pain unrelated to menstruation.

Immediate non-systemic safety concerns are associated with the insertion and removal procedures, which may precipitate a vasovagal reaction, including symptoms such as fainting (syncope) or a slow heart rate (bradycardia).

Serious Adverse Reactions

Official labeling explicitly documents several serious adverse reactions, which are largely procedural or risk-related:

  • Perforation and Displacement: The penetration of the uterine wall is a documented but uncommon event occurring most frequently during insertion. Partial or complete expulsion of the device may also occur.
  • Infections: The highest rate of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is officially noted to occur during the first month after insertion and subsequently decreases. Severe infection or Sepsis is a rare but possible complication reported following IUD insertion.
  • Ectopic Pregnancy: While the device is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, if a conception does occur while the device is in place, that pregnancy is more likely to be ectopic.

Population-Specific Safety Patterns

The risk of perforation is officially noted to be increased in women who are breastfeeding at the time of insertion or when insertion occurs up to 36 weeks after giving birth. Furthermore, the device is not generally considered the first-choice option for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as excessive menstrual bleeding, existing anaemia, or for women receiving anticoagulant medication.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The regulatory definition of an overdose scenario for the Nova-T 380 intrauterine device is defined by acute, severe complications requiring immediate medical management. These complications include structural integrity failure, such as uterine perforation or penetration, which can occur during insertion or be detected subsequently. Regulator-documented severe outcomes also include life-threatening systemic infectious outcomes, notably the risk of sepsis or septic shock following placement.

Officially documented manifestations of acute complications may include excessive and persistent bleeding, severe cramping, and fever (pyrexia). Furthermore, acute procedure-related events such as vasovagal reactions leading to fainting, or the precipitation of a seizure in epileptic patients, are listed as requiring attention.

Immediate medical help is required when uterine perforation is suspected or confirmed, as the official labeling mandates immediate device removal. Urgent attention must also be sought for any signs of severe infection. Diagnostic procedures such as X-ray or ultrasound are required to ascertain device position in cases of suspected perforation or migration. Population-specific regulatory notes indicate that patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions should have procedures undertaken in a hospital setting due to the risk of a significant cardiac event from vasovagal reactions.

Therapeutic Uses of Nova-T 380

Nova-T 380, which is considered a relevant option for contraception, is commonly used to help manage the risk of unintended pregnancy across various clinical contexts. The device is indicated for contraception and is considered a highly reliable form of long-acting reversible contraception. Its use is relevant for long-term pregnancy prevention, as a time-sensitive contraceptive intervention, and for managing fertility without hormonal exposure.

The primary benefit is in addressing the symptom clusters that may become disruptive, such as the anxiety and inconvenience associated with daily pill-taking or other high-maintenance schedules. This long-acting method contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms related to compliance.

“The sustained nature of this copper IUD supports patients seeking stability and continuous, non-hormonal management of fertility over multiple years.”

In clinical settings where supportive symptom management is appropriate, the device is applied in contexts where additional symptomatic support is needed due to avoidance of systemic hormones, which supports overall physical stability. Furthermore, in time-sensitive clinical settings, the device is applied when time-sensitive, highly reliable contraception is appropriate following unprotected sexual intercourse.


Quick Fact: Relief for Daily Management Burden The device assists with maintaining functional stability by simplifying the management of daily medication schedules, providing supportive relief when symptoms related to adherence interfere with routine activities.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Nova-T 380?

Nova-T 380 is a copper intrauterine device (IUD) approved for use as long-acting reversible contraception in women of reproductive age. Eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory health criteria to ensure safe use.

Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Use of Nova-T 380 is strictly contraindicated if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Known or suspected pregnancy.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) that is current or recurrent, or if you have an active lower genital tract infection (e.g., cervicitis or vaginitis) that is untreated.
  • A recent history (within the last three months) of postpartum endometritis or infected abortion.
  • Uterine or cervical malignancy (known or suspected) or undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding.
  • Anomalies of the uterus (such as fibroids) that distort the uterine cavity.
  • Wilson’s disease (a disorder causing copper accumulation) or a known allergy to copper.
  • Pelvic tuberculosis or the presence of another IUD that has not been removed.

Use Requires Special Consideration

Nova-T 380 may not be the first choice for women who have conditions that could be aggravated by the device's effects, such as excessive menstrual bleeding, anemia, or dysmenorrhea. Women taking anticoagulant medication should also be assessed carefully due to the potential for increased bleeding. Additionally, insertion during breastfeeding or in a recently postpartum state may carry an increased risk of uterine perforation.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The Nova-T 380 is a non-hormonal, localized device, and its interaction profile documented in official regulatory sources is distinct from that of systemic hormonal contraceptives.

Interaction Category Official Regulatory Statement
Pharmacokinetic Interactions The device's efficacy is not apparently affected by enzyme-inducing drugs (e.g., Carbamazepine, Rifampin), as its mechanism is non-systemic and non-hormonal. No drug-drug interactions involving CYP enzymes or drug transporters are documented as affecting its primary function.
Medicinal Product Cautions Anticoagulants: The device may not be the method of first choice for women receiving anticoagulants, as it can increase menstrual blood loss. Regulatory documents state that if excessive bleeding or anaemia develops, device removal should be considered.
Population-Specific Restrictions Wilson's Disease: Use of the copper IUD is contraindicated in patients with Wilson's disease due to the disorder of copper metabolism and the copper content of the device.
Procedural Cautions Medical Diathermy: A regulatory caution exists regarding the theoretical risk of localized heat injury to surrounding tissue when medical diathermy (short-wave or microwave heat therapy) is used in a patient with a metal-containing IUD.

The regulatory framework confirms the Nova-T 380's freedom from common systemic drug-drug interactions that affect hormonal methods. All documented warnings and restrictions are focused on managing the localized effects of the IUD's copper and physical presence in the context of specific medical conditions or external procedures.

Mechanism of Action

The Nova-T 380 mechanism is a localized, non-hormonal, dual-action system. The action is restricted to the reproductive tract and is driven by the continuous release of copper ions.

Anti-Fertilization through Sperm Immobilization

The primary mechanism acts within the gamete function domain by releasing a consistent stream of Copper ions (Cu^2+) into the uterine environment. These ions exert a localized cytotoxicity on spermatozoa, disrupting the enzymatic systems critical for sperm metabolism and motility. This disruption initiates a rapid mechanistic cascade of functional failure, leading to the immobilization and death of sperm. The resulting physiological effect is a functional blockade of the fertilization pathway before the ovum can be reached.

Inhibition of Implantation via Endometrial Hostility

The device's physical presence engages the inflammatory response domain within the uterus, acting as a foreign body to induce a sterile, localized inflammatory reaction. This reaction recruits leukocytes and alters the biochemical nature of the endometrium, including the increase of prostaglandin levels. This process modifies the tissue and fluid composition, rendering the uterine cavity physiologically unsuitable for a fertilized ovum. This modification contributes to the inhibitory effect against the successful establishment of a pregnancy.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Nova-T 380: Official Administration Guidelines

The usage of Nova-T 380 is governed by specific instructions which dictate the procedure, timing, and duration of the device's function. The device is not self-administered and requires a clinical procedure.

Administration and Procedural Requirements

Entity Official Detail
Route of Administration Strictly intrauterine insertion.
Dosing Regimen Insertion of one single device (380 mm^2 Copper IUD) per course of use.
Administration Supervision Must be inserted by a qualified healthcare professional using strict aseptic technique.
Preparation Supplied sterile and is for single use only. No patient preparation or dilution is required.

Use Over Time and Specific Timing

Nova-T 380 is intended for continuous action over a defined period, necessitating professional removal and potential replacement.

  • Duration of Use: The single device is approved to provide continuous contraception for up to 5 years before mandatory removal or replacement.
  • Optimal Timing: Guidelines suggest insertion should optimally occur during or shortly after menstruation to align with the reproductive cycle and exclude pregnancy.

Population-Specific Use

As a medical device with a fixed specification, Nova-T 380 has no labeled numerical dose adjustments for populations like older adults or those with renal or hepatic impairment. However, guidance exists for specific contexts:

  • Postpartum: Insertion should generally be postponed until the uterus is fully involuted, usually not earlier than six weeks after delivery.

These instructions standardize the professional, non-systemic use of the device over its approved, long-term functional period.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Nova-T 380

Evidence for Use in Contraception

This section will summarize the available evidence from clinical trials and observational studies that evaluated the use of Nova-T 380 in the research context of pregnancy prevention. The summary will focus on reported rates of unintended pregnancy and study-defined measures of continuation rates over various durations of device use.

Research exploring the use of Nova-T 380 for pregnancy prevention has largely involved single-arm clinical trials and prospective cohort studies. Findings describe patterns observed in these studies where the occurrence of unintended pregnancy was measured. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, noting that a portion of participants discontinued use, and this was associated with outcomes related to physical discomfort (pain) and outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states (bleeding patterns).

Evidence for Use as Emergency Contraception

This section will outline the research and clinical data available for the use of copper IUDs, including Nova-T 380, in the research context of emergency pregnancy prevention following unprotected intercourse. Studies reported measurements of pregnancy occurrence when the device was applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences related to this specific application. Research provides context on what has been observed so far in this acute setting, but research does not determine whether an individual will have the same outcome, as findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.

What is Still Uncertain About Nova-T 380

Certainty remains low regarding the full range of outcomes beyond the five-year use period. What remains uncertain is the availability of data when use extends past the recommended five years. There is limited information for long-term outcomes beyond this specified duration. Data for certain groups, such as those with specific concurrent health conditions, remain insufficient. Findings varied across studies regarding specific outcomes, and evidence for direct statistical comparison of this device model against all similar available devices is lacking.

Key Studies & References

  1. Nova T 380 (Official European product information document/summary of evidence)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Nova-T 380 (FAQ)

Q: Can Nova-T 380 be used as a form of emergency contraception?

Official medical guidelines recognize copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) as an effective option for emergency contraception. Studies indicate that for this purpose, the device is indicated for insertion by a healthcare professional within five days of unprotected intercourse.


Q: What are the most common reasons people decide to have Nova-T 380 removed early?

According to studies and official documentation, the most frequent medical reasons reported for the premature discontinuation of Nova-T 380 use relate to changes in bleeding patterns. These reasons typically include increased menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and menstrual cramping (dysmenorrhoea).


Q: Does the Nova-T 380 cause any hormonal side effects like weight gain or mood changes?

The Nova-T 380 is officially classified as a non-hormonal contraceptive device. Its mechanism of action is localized within the reproductive tract. Because it does not contain hormones, it does not disrupt the timing of the menstrual cycle or prevent ovulation.


Q: What is the likelihood of the Nova-T 380 device moving or coming out (expulsion)?

Expulsion, where the device moves partially or completely out of the uterus, is a documented serious adverse reaction. Studies report that expulsion rates vary, but are typically observed in the range of 1.1% to 4.7% per 100 women over the five-year duration of use.


Q: How does Nova-T 380 compare to other reversible contraceptives in terms of continuation rates?

IUDs are recognized as effective, long-acting reversible contraceptives. Clinical studies show generally high continuation rates for users. As noted in regulatory information, discontinuation before the removal date is primarily due to issues related to bleeding and pain.


Q: Is the copper level from Nova-T 380 in the body considered safe?

The mechanism of the Nova-T 380 is designed to be localized and non-systemic, restricting its action primarily to the reproductive tract. The only specific contraindication related to copper content is for patients diagnosed with Wilson's disease, a condition involving impaired copper metabolism.


Q: Can the copper IUD be inserted right after giving birth or after a miscarriage/abortion?

Official guidance for the Nova-T 380 provides different timelines for insertion depending on the event. It can be inserted immediately after a first-trimester abortion. Following childbirth, official guidance indicates that insertion is generally postponed until the uterus is fully involuted, which is not usually recommended earlier than six weeks after delivery.


Q: How quickly does Nova-T 380 start working after insertion?

According to official guidelines for copper IUDs, the device is effective as contraception as soon as it is inserted by a qualified healthcare professional.


Q: Is it true that Nova-T 380 is effective immediately after it is put in?

Official guidelines for copper IUDs state that the device begins its contraceptive action as soon as it is inserted by the healthcare professional.


Q: Can Nova-T 380 affect a person's future fertility after it is removed?

Official information describes the rapid return of fertility following its removal. The mechanism of action is reversible, and the effects do not persist once the device is taken out.


Q: What should a patient do if they cannot feel the threads/strings of their IUD?

The official product information states that if the threads are not visible or cannot be felt, official guidance indicates the need for re-examination by a healthcare professional immediately. From there, further steps are necessary to determine if the device has been expelled or perforated the uterine wall.


Q: Can Nova-T 380 be used safely by people who have never given birth (nulliparous women)?

Medical eligibility guidelines, such as those from the CDC, support the use of copper IUDs and indicate eligibility for the majority of women, including those who have not previously given birth (nulliparous women). However, some guidelines may categorize use in this group slightly differently than in women who have given birth.


Q: Does having a history of multiple sexual partners increase the risk of any complications?

Official product labeling notes that IUDs are generally not the method of choice for women who may be at high risk for acquiring sexual infections. This caution exists because pelvic infection is most frequently associated with sexually transmitted organisms.


Q: What is the recommended timing for checking the IUD threads?

The official product information indicates the patient should receive instruction on how to check the threads of the IUD themselves. Re-examination by a healthcare professional is recommended 4 to 12 weeks after insertion and once a year thereafter.


Q: Is it possible for the copper IUD to lose its effectiveness over time before the removal date?

Studies indicate that the Nova-T 380 device is designed to consistently maintain its consistent efficacy for the full duration of its approved use. Research suggests that most contraceptive failures, if they occur, are observed in the first year following insertion.


Q: What kind of studies have been done to assess the long-term safety of Nova-T 380?

The safety and efficacy of the device have been assessed through comprehensive clinical investigations. These include large-scale research studies such as randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies that track outcomes over time.


Q: Does Nova-T 380 offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Official patient information and labeling clearly state that the Nova-T 380 product does not offer any protection against HIV infection (AIDS) or any other sexually transmitted diseases.


Q: What happens to the Nova-T 380 device when it is due to be removed?

Official information indicates the device is removed by a qualified healthcare professional. If the patient desires continued pregnancy prevention, a new Nova-T 380 device can be inserted during the same procedure.


Q: If a person becomes pregnant with the device in place, is the device always removed?

Official product information states that if an intrauterine pregnancy occurs and the threads are visible, the IUD is indicated for removal due to the risk of serious complications. If the threads are not visible, removal is not possible, and patients are advised of the increased risks associated with continuing the pregnancy with the device in place.


Q: Are there different sizes of Nova-T 380 available?

The Nova-T 380 product is supplied as one single device with a fixed copper surface area of 380 mm^2. However, other copper IUDs with the same total copper content are sometimes available in different dimensions to accommodate smaller uteruses.


Q: What are the symptoms that indicate the device may have moved out of place?

Symptoms that may indicate the device has partially or completely moved out of place (expulsion) include pain or bleeding. However, according to the official product information, the device can also be expelled without the user being aware of it.


Q: Is there research on the use of Nova-T 380 in women over the age of 35?

Medical guidance from certain authorities addresses the use of copper IUDs in older women. These guidelines note that if a copper IUD is inserted when a woman is 40 years of age or older, it may remain in place and is indicated to remain effective until after the menopause has been clinically confirmed.


Q: Is it necessary to use a backup method of contraception when the IUD is removed?

Official product information states that if the device is removed mid-cycle and the woman has had recent intercourse, there is a risk of pregnancy unless a new device is inserted immediately. If continued contraception is not desired, official guidance indicates that removal is best carried out during menstruation.


Q: How soon after removal can a person expect their menstrual cycle to return to its previous pattern?

Since Nova-T 380 is a non-hormonal method of contraception, the return to a natural menstrual cycle and fertility pattern is rapid following removal. This immediate return of fertility is a characteristic described in official information.

How should Nova-T 380 be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

The storage and disposal instructions for the Nova-T 380 IUD are defined in official regulatory documents to ensure the product's pre-use sterility and proper post-use handling.

Storage Category Official Requirement
Temperature Store below 30 °C (thirty degrees Celsius).
Environmental Protection Must be protected from direct sunlight and moisture.
Packaging Must remain in the original container; do not use if the pouch is damaged or open.
Stability/Handling For single use only; must not be re-sterilized or reused.
Expiry Must be used before the expiry date shown on the label.
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal (Post-Use) Dispose of in accordance with local guidelines for the handling of biohazardous waste.

The official storage profile mandates that the device be kept below 30 °C and shielded from environmental factors like sunlight. The sterile, single-use nature of the device prohibits reprocessing or reuse and ties its stability directly to the expiry date and package integrity. After removal, the used device must be disposed of following official biohazardous waste procedures.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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