Can You Take Emergency Contraceptive Pills on an Empty Stomach with GERD Medications?

Can birth control pills be taken on an empty stomach along with medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Hello, doctor.
I am currently taking the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella (Ulipristal Acetate).
I would like to ask if it is safe to take the emergency contraceptive pill on an empty stomach along with medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which include MOPRIDE F.C.
5MG/TAB and NEXIUM 40MG/TAB.
Thank you, doctor!

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/04

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the following medications may interact with oral contraceptives: 1.
Antibiotics (Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Erythromycin, Sulfonamides, Bactrim, Chloramphenicol) - may reduce the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of contraceptives.
2.
Sedatives (Barbiturates) - increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
3.
Antiepileptic drugs (Primidone, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine) - increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
4.
Tuberculosis medications (Rifampicin, Isoniazid).
5.
Antidiabetic medications (Rosiglitazone).
6.
Acetaminophen and Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) - may inhibit the metabolism of estrogen, leading to increased levels in the body and a higher incidence of side effects.
7.
Oral contraceptives may affect the action of anticoagulants.
8.
Smoking - increases the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
The mentioned gastrointestinal medications are less likely to have an impact.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2021/07/04

More Info

When considering the use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) alongside medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it's essential to understand how these medications interact and their effects on the body.
Emergency contraceptive pills, such as the one you mentioned (祈麗安, or Levonorgestrel), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours. The effectiveness of ECPs can be influenced by various factors, including the timing of ingestion relative to meals and other medications.

Regarding your GERD medications, MOPRIDE (which contains mosapride) and NEXIUM (esomeprazole) are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms of GERD. MOPRIDE is a prokinetic agent that helps enhance gastrointestinal motility, while NEXIUM is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production.
Taking ECPs on an empty stomach is generally acceptable, as the absorption of Levonorgestrel is not significantly affected by food. However, when it comes to combining ECPs with GERD medications, there are a few considerations:
1. Timing and Absorption: While ECPs can be taken on an empty stomach, it is advisable to take them at least 1-2 hours apart from medications like NEXIUM. This is because PPIs like NEXIUM can alter the gastric pH, which might theoretically affect the absorption of some medications, although studies specifically addressing ECPs and PPIs are limited.

2. Potential Interactions: There is no well-documented interaction between Levonorgestrel and either MOPRIDE or NEXIUM. However, since both MOPRIDE and NEXIUM are designed to affect gastric motility and acidity, it is prudent to space out the doses to ensure optimal absorption of both the ECP and the GERD medication.

3. GERD Symptoms: If you experience significant GERD symptoms, taking ECPs on an empty stomach might lead to discomfort. In such cases, it may be beneficial to take the ECP with a small amount of food that is less likely to exacerbate GERD symptoms, such as a piece of toast or a banana.

4. Consultation with Healthcare Provider: It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the timing and combination of medications. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current medications.

In summary, while you can take emergency contraceptive pills on an empty stomach, it is advisable to take them at least 1-2 hours apart from your GERD medications to ensure optimal absorption and minimize any potential interaction. Always consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice, especially when managing multiple medications.

Similar Q&A

Can You Take Emergency Contraceptive Pills with GERD Medications on an Empty Stomach?

Hello, doctor. I am currently taking the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella (Ulipristal Acetate). I would like to ask if it is safe to take this emergency contraceptive on an empty stomach along with medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which include MOPRIDE F....

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, 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 contr...

Can You Take Emergency Contraceptive Pills on an Empty Stomach with GERD Meds?

Hello, Doctor. I am currently taking the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella (Ulipristal Acetate). I would like to ask if it is safe to take this emergency contraceptive on an empty stomach along with medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which include MOPRIDE F....

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the following medications may interact with oral contraceptives: 1. Antibiotics (Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Erythromycin, Sulfonamides, Bactrim, Chloramphenicol) - may reduce the intestinal flora that aids in absorption, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of contracepti...

Can Antacids Interfere with Birth Control Pills? A Guide for Patients

Hello, I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill, Diane, for over six months. Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Can I take medications for GERD alongside the contraceptive pill? Will it affect the efficacy of either medica...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There is no interaction between medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and contraceptives; they can be taken two hours apart. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills After Vomiting

On the morning of December 24th, I had unprotected intercourse and in the afternoon, I bought Plan B (emergency contraceptive pill). I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, which caused me to vomit 1.5 hours after taking the pill. Will the medication still be effective, or will t...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is generally advisable to take preventive measures for contraception at all times, and not to rely on the calendar method. If your period is more than a week late, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.