10 Medications That Can Reduce the Effectiveness of Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are an effective way to prevent pregnancy, but certain medications can interfere with their effectiveness, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy.…..CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLES HERE

Some drugs can speed up the breakdown of hormones in birth control pills, while others may reduce their absorption. Here are 10 medications that can interfere with birth control pills:

1. Antibiotics (Rifampin and Rifabutin)

While most antibiotics don’t affect birth control, rifampin and rifabutin (used for tuberculosis and bacterial infections) can decrease the pill’s effectiveness by increasing hormone metabolism.

2. Antifungal Medications (Griseofulvin)

This antifungal drug, used to treat skin infections, can interfere with birth control pills, though other antifungals like fluconazole and ketoconazole usually do not.

3. Anticonvulsants (Seizure Medications)

Drugs like phenytoin, carbamazepine, topiramate, and phenobarbital can reduce the effectiveness of birth control by speeding up hormone breakdown.

4. HIV Medications (Antiretrovirals)

Some HIV drugs, such as efavirenz and nevirapine, can lower estrogen and progestin levels in birth control, making them less effective.

5. St. John’s Wort

This herbal supplement, often used to treat depression and anxiety, speeds up liver metabolism, reducing the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.

6. Some Diabetes Medications

Drugs like pioglitazone may affect estrogen levels, potentially reducing the effectiveness of birth control pills.

7. Weight Loss Drugs (Orlistat)

Orlistat, found in weight loss medications like Alli and Xenical, can cause diarrhea, which may reduce the absorption of birth control pills.

8. Anti-Nausea Medications (Metoclopramide)

This drug, used for digestive issues and nausea, can speed up digestion, possibly decreasing the absorption of birth control hormones.

9. Immunosuppressants (Mycophenolate Mofetil)

Used in organ transplant patients, this drug may reduce birth control effectiveness by altering hormone levels.

10. Modafinil (for Narcolepsy and Sleep Disorders)

Modafinil, used to treat narcolepsy, has been shown to reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills by increasing hormone metabolism.

What to Do?

If you are taking any of these medications, consult your doctor about alternative contraception methods, such as condoms or an intrauterine device (IUD), to prevent unintended pregnancy.