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

Can birth control pills be taken on an empty stomach along with medication 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 this emergency contraceptive on an empty stomach along with medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which include MOPRIDE F.C.
5mg/tablet and NEXIUM 40mg/tablet.
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 intestinal 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, potentially increasing its concentration and the occurrence of side effects.
7.
Oral contraceptives may affect the action of anticoagulants.
8.
Smoking - increases the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
Gastrointestinal medications are less likely to have an impact.
Thank you! Wishing you safety 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 is important to understand both the pharmacological interactions and the potential effects on your gastrointestinal system.

Emergency contraceptive pills, such as the one you mentioned (祈麗安), 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 active ingredients in these pills can vary, but they often contain levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, both of which are generally well-tolerated.

On the other hand, the GERD medications you are taking, MOPRIDE (which contains mosapride, a prokinetic agent) and NEXIUM (esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor), work to reduce stomach acid and improve gastrointestinal motility. These medications can help alleviate symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux.

Can You Take ECPs on an Empty Stomach with GERD Meds?
1. Taking ECPs on an Empty Stomach: ECPs can be taken on an empty stomach, but it is generally recommended to take them with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea. If you are experiencing GERD symptoms, taking the ECP with a small amount of food may help reduce the risk of nausea and improve absorption.

2. Interactions with GERD Medications: There are no significant interactions between ECPs and the GERD medications you mentioned. However, it is essential to consider that NEXIUM, as a proton pump inhibitor, reduces stomach acid, which can affect the absorption of certain medications. While ECPs are not significantly affected by changes in stomach acidity, taking them with food can help ensure better absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Timing and Administration: If you are taking NEXIUM, it is typically recommended to take it at least 30 minutes before a meal for optimal effectiveness. You can take your ECP at the same time or shortly after, but if you experience any discomfort, consider spacing them out slightly. MOPRIDE can be taken with or without food, but if you are taking it to manage GERD symptoms, it may be best to take it as directed by your healthcare provider.

Additional Considerations
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: If you have a history of GERD, it is crucial to monitor how your body reacts to taking multiple medications. If you experience increased heartburn, nausea, or any other gastrointestinal discomfort after taking these medications together, consult your healthcare provider.

- Consulting Healthcare Providers: Always discuss any concerns regarding medication interactions or side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current medications.

- Long-term Management of GERD: If you find that your GERD symptoms are persistent or worsening, it may be beneficial to explore additional management strategies with your healthcare provider, including lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or alternative medications.

In summary, while it is generally safe to take emergency contraceptive pills with GERD medications like MOPRIDE and NEXIUM, it is advisable to take the ECP with food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Always consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and to ensure that your treatment plan is effective and safe.

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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 MOPRID...

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