Does Taking Antibiotics Affect Birth Control Pill Effectiveness?

Taking antibiotics and birth control pills simultaneously?

Because of the purulent tonsillitis, I need to take antibiotics (Curam 1000mg).
Will this affect the effectiveness of my oral contraceptive? The oral contraceptive contains Gestodene 0.075mg and Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg.
I have finished one pack and have taken 6 additional pills.
Is there an increased chance of pregnancy during this period? Thank you.
🙏

Nina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/28

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello,
The medications that may interact with oral contraceptives include:
1.
Antibiotics (Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Erythromycin, Sulfonamides, Bactrim, Chloramphenicol) - These may reduce the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of the contraceptive.
2.
Sedatives (Barbiturates) - These can increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
3.
Antiepileptic drugs (Primidone, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine) - These also increase the metabolism of contraceptives, leading to reduced effectiveness.
4.
Antituberculosis medications (Rifampicin, Isoniazid).
5.
Antidiabetic medications (Rosiglitazone).
6.
Acetaminophen and Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) - These may inhibit the metabolism of estrogen, potentially increasing its concentration in the body and leading to a higher incidence of side effects.
7.
Oral contraceptives can affect the action of anticoagulants.
8.
Smoking - This can increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
Curam contains Penicillin, which may affect contraceptive efficacy; therefore, it is recommended to use additional contraceptive methods during its use.
When taken correctly and without interference, the effectiveness of oral contraceptives is 99%.

Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.

Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2020/09/28

More Info

Taking antibiotics can raise concerns about their potential impact on the effectiveness of birth control pills. The specific antibiotic you mentioned, Curam (which contains amoxicillin and clavulanate), is not typically associated with a significant reduction in the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. However, there are certain antibiotics, particularly rifampin and rifabutin, that are known to decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills by increasing the metabolism of the hormones involved.

The birth control pill you are using contains Gestodene and Ethinylestradiol, which are synthetic hormones designed to prevent ovulation. When taken correctly, these pills are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. The concern arises when antibiotics alter the gut flora or affect the liver enzymes that metabolize these hormones, potentially leading to reduced hormone levels in the bloodstream.

In your case, since you are taking Curam, the likelihood of it affecting your birth control pill is low. Most studies indicate that common antibiotics do not significantly interfere with the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. However, it is essential to consider that any medication can have individual variations in how it affects different people.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy while taking antibiotics, it is advisable to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, during the course of your antibiotic treatment and for at least seven days after completing the antibiotic course. This precaution can help ensure that you are adequately protected against unintended pregnancy.

Additionally, if you experience any side effects from the antibiotics or have concerns about your birth control method, it is always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current medications.

In summary, while most antibiotics, including Curam, are not known to significantly affect the effectiveness of birth control pills, it is prudent to take extra precautions during antibiotic treatment. Always communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns regarding medications and contraceptive methods to ensure you have the most accurate and relevant information for your situation.

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