Amoxicillin and Birth Control Pills: Drug Interactions

Amoxicillin and oral contraceptives?

Hello, I am currently using the oral contraceptive pill, Mesigyna.
Recently, I developed a bacterial cyst on my skin, and my doctor prescribed Amoxicillin 500 mg and Tinten 500 mg (which contains paracetamol).
The dosage is for three days, three times a day.
I would like to know if this could cause a drug interaction that would reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill.
If I engage in sexual activity in the next few days, do I need to take additional protective measures? Thank you.

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/16

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Generally, it does not affect the effectiveness of contraception.
If there are concerns during the medication period, using condoms during sexual intercourse is advisable.

Reply Date: 2021/06/16

More Info

When it comes to the interaction between Amoxicillin and birth control pills, particularly in your case where you are taking the birth control pill "美適濃" (which contains ethinylestradiol and a progestin), the general consensus in the medical community is that Amoxicillin does not significantly affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives.
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that is commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Unlike some other antibiotics, such as rifampicin or griseofulvin, which are known to induce liver enzymes that can lower the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, Amoxicillin does not have this effect. Therefore, the likelihood of Amoxicillin interfering with the contraceptive effect of your birth control pill is very low.

However, it is important to consider that while Amoxicillin itself is not likely to affect the efficacy of your birth control, any illness that leads to vomiting or diarrhea can potentially reduce the absorption of the contraceptive pill. If you experience gastrointestinal symptoms as a side effect of your infection or the medications, this could impact the effectiveness of your birth control.
Regarding the use of Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen), which you mentioned is included in the medication "tinten," it does not interact with hormonal contraceptives in a way that would reduce their effectiveness. Paracetamol is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic that is generally considered safe to use alongside birth control pills.

In summary, based on current medical understanding, taking Amoxicillin and Paracetamol while on birth control pills like 美適濃 should not compromise the effectiveness of your contraceptive method. However, if you have any concerns about your health or the medications you are taking, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

If you are engaging in sexual activity during this time and are concerned about potential pregnancy, it may provide peace of mind to use additional protection, such as condoms, especially if you experience any side effects from your medications that could affect absorption.
In conclusion, while the risk of interaction between Amoxicillin and your birth control pill is minimal, being aware of your overall health and any side effects is crucial. Always feel free to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Do Amoxicillin and Birth Control Pills Interact? What You Need to Know

I was prescribed a three-day course of amoxicillin for acute pharyngitis on September 15. However, I have been taking the contraceptive pill, Qlaira, for ten days and I'm concerned about potential interactions. Will the contraceptive effect still be effective in this case?

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the antibiotics used to treat acne, Helicobacter pylori, and respiratory infections can easily affect the effectiveness of birth control pills. This is especially true for antibiotics containing the following ingredients: erythromycin, tetracycline, penicillin, and amoxici...

Interactions Between Paramol, Amoxicillin, and Birth Control Pills Explained

Hello, doctor. I took PARAMOL (acetaminophen) for pain relief and AMOXICILLIN antibiotic at 9:00 PM, and I consistently take my contraceptive pill at 12:30 AM every day. I read online that antibiotics can affect the effectiveness of birth control, but it didn't mention AMOXI...

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Regarding your concerns, here is a summary of the response: Whether for contraceptive purposes or treatment, multiple medications entering the body will circulate in the bloodstream and may interact with each other. However, the actual reactions depend on individual physiology an...

Does Amoxicillin Affect Birth Control Pills? What You Need to Know

Hello doctor, I have recently been prescribed Amoxicillin 500mg due to tonsillitis. I am currently taking Yaz birth control pills. Will there be any drug interactions? Do I need to take additional contraceptive measures? Thank you, doctor.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, generally it is not the case. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Drug Interactions in Obstetrics: Amoxicillin and Contraceptives

I would like to ask the doctor two questions. I was prescribed Amoxicillin trihydrate and Potassium clavulanate for lymphadenitis on April 10, and I am currently still taking it along with the contraceptive pill, Priligy. I would like to know if there are any interactions between...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the likelihood of the medication affecting you is low. Birth control pills must be taken at the same time every day; when taken correctly, they can achieve a 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Zhang