How Long Does It Take for Emergency Contraceptive Pills to Absorb?

The absorption rate of contraceptive pills?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask how many hours it takes for the emergency contraceptive pill (Yue Ji) to be absorbed.
If I take the emergency contraceptive pill (Yue Ji) at 5:30 PM and then take enzymes 3.5 hours later at 9:00 PM, will it affect the contraceptive effect? The enzyme I am taking is "Changkai Life," which contains: complex lactic acid bacteria powder (lactitol (sweetener), magnesium oxide, sucrose, carboxymethyl cellulose sodium, patented Lactobacillus plantarum (lactic acid bacteria, maltodextrin, lactose, microcrystalline cellulose powder), Bifidobacterium longum powder (lactic acid bacteria, maltodextrin, lactose, microcrystalline cellulose powder), Lactobacillus sporogenes powder (spore-forming lactic acid bacteria powder, maltodextrin), patented Bacillus subtilis powder (spore-forming natto bacteria powder, maltodextrin), patented AES comprehensive digestive enzyme powder (fermented soybean extract (protease, amylase, lipase, fiber-degrading enzyme), calcium lactate, magnesium citrate, zinc yeast, manganese gluconate), sucrose (sucrose, silicon dioxide), inulin, instant kiwi juice powder (sucrose, kiwi juice powder (kiwi concentrate, maltodextrin, sodium octenyl succinate starch, sucrose), sodium octenyl succinate starch, citric acid, corn starch, sodium citrate, kiwi flavor, yellow carrot pigment, carrot blue pigment), lactose, patented indigestible maltodextrin, citric acid, isomalt oligosaccharides, patented wheat extract (water-soluble dietary fiber), kiwi flavor powder (sodium octenyl succinate starch, maltodextrin, kiwi flavor, β-cyclodextrin, glycerol fatty acid esters, vitamin E (antioxidant)), oligosaccharides, patented kiwi seed extract (dextrin, kiwi seed extract powder), pectin (pectin (citrus), sucrose).

Ruby, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/06

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the pharmacokinetics of oral contraceptives are approximately as follows: the bioavailability is close to 100%, absorption occurs within 1.6 +/- 0.7 hours, the estimated half-life in the bloodstream is about 24.4 +/- 5.3 hours, and peak plasma concentration is reached within 2 hours.

Medications that may interact with oral contraceptives include:
1.
Antibiotics (Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Erythromycin, Sulfonamides, Bactrim, Chloramphenicol) - Doxycycline may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, as it can decrease the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby diminishing the contraceptive effect.
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 estrogen metabolism, potentially increasing serum levels and the occurrence 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.
Therefore, if you need to take any of the aforementioned medications while on oral contraceptives, it is advisable to use additional contraceptive measures for seven days.
The impact of the mentioned components is limited.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/03/06

More Info

When it comes to emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), the absorption and effectiveness can be influenced by several factors, including the timing of ingestion and the presence of other substances in the digestive system.
Emergency contraceptive pills, such as those containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Generally, these pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours for levonorgestrel and up to 120 hours for ulipristal acetate.
Regarding absorption, ECPs typically begin to be absorbed into the bloodstream shortly after ingestion, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within a few hours. For levonorgestrel, studies indicate that it reaches peak levels in about 1.5 to 2 hours after ingestion. Therefore, if you take the pill at 5:30 PM, it is likely that the active ingredients are already being absorbed into your system by 9:00 PM.

Now, concerning your question about taking digestive enzymes three and a half hours after consuming the ECP: generally, the absorption of ECPs should not be significantly affected by the intake of digestive enzymes. These enzymes are designed to aid in the digestion of food and may not interfere with the absorption of the hormones in the contraceptive pill. However, it is always wise to consult with a healthcare provider regarding specific interactions, especially if you are taking other medications or supplements.

It is also important to note that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. Their effectiveness can be influenced by factors such as the timing of ovulation in your menstrual cycle and how soon after unprotected intercourse the pill is taken.
In terms of dietary considerations, while there is no specific food or supplement that can enhance the effectiveness of ECPs, maintaining a healthy diet can support overall reproductive health. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy after taking ECPs, it is advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider for further guidance and possibly a pregnancy test if your period is delayed.

In summary, ECPs are absorbed relatively quickly, and taking digestive enzymes shortly after should not significantly impact their effectiveness. However, for personalized advice and to address any specific health concerns, consulting with a healthcare professional is always recommended.

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