Emergency Contraceptive Pills and Cold Medicine: What You Need to Know

Emergency contraceptive pills and cold medications?

Hello doctor, I am currently on the 10th pack and took the 11th pill at 7 PM.
However, I was feeling unwell due to a cold, so I took my aunt's cold medicine at 7:56 PM.
After taking it, I realized that I had already taken my birth control pill.
I am using Alesse, and my next meeting with my boyfriend is on January 14th.
Should I use additional contraceptive measures at that time? Will the contraceptive effect still be effective? I have only taken one pack so far.
Thank you, doctor.

Pppp, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/05

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the following medications may interact with oral contraceptives:
1.
Antibiotics (Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Erythromycin, Sulfonamides, Bactrim, Chloramphenicol) - Doxycycline may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, and when taking doxycycline, alternative contraceptive methods should be employed as it may decrease the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the contraceptive.
2.
Sedatives (Barbiturates) - These can increase the metabolism of oral contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
3.
Antiepileptic drugs (Primidone, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine) - These also increase the metabolism of oral contraceptives, leading to decreased effectiveness.
4.
Tuberculosis 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 oral contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
If any of the above substances are being used, it is advisable to employ additional contraceptive methods.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.

Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/01/05

More Info

When it comes to emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and their interaction with other medications, such as cold medicine, it is essential to understand how these medications work and their potential effects on each other.
Emergency contraceptive pills, like the one you mentioned (likely referring to a brand like "Ella" or "Plan B"), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which means that if taken before ovulation occurs, they can effectively prevent an egg from being fertilized. However, their efficacy diminishes the longer you wait to take them after unprotected sex, and they are most effective when taken as soon as possible.

In your case, you mentioned that you are currently on your 10th pack of the contraceptive pill and took a cold medicine shortly after. Generally, most common cold medications, such as antihistamines or decongestants, do not significantly affect the effectiveness of ECPs. However, some medications can interact with hormonal contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness. For instance, certain antibiotics and anti-seizure medications can lower the effectiveness of hormonal birth control.
Since you are taking a regular contraceptive pill (assuming it is a combined oral contraceptive), it should continue to provide protection against pregnancy as long as you take it consistently and correctly. If you have been taking your contraceptive pill as directed, the cold medicine you took should not impact its effectiveness.
Regarding your upcoming meeting with your boyfriend on January 14, if you have been taking your contraceptive pills correctly, you should still be protected from pregnancy. However, if you are concerned about any potential interactions or if you missed any doses of your contraceptive pill, it may be wise to use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms, during that encounter for added peace of mind.

It is also important to note that if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects from either the cold medication or the contraceptive pill, you should consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current medications.

In summary, as long as you have been taking your contraceptive pills correctly, you should still have effective contraception in place despite taking cold medicine. However, if you have any doubts or concerns, using an additional method of contraception is a prudent choice. Always feel free to reach out to your healthcare provider for clarification and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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