Interactions Between Birth Control Pills and Other Medications: What You Need to Know

Interactions between contraceptive pills and menstrual regulation medications?

I originally visited the obstetrics and gynecology department, and the doctor prescribed me these three medications: 1.
Ediol F.C.
Tab (Estradiol 1mg, one tablet daily) 2.
Wanse S.C.
Tablets (one tablet in the morning and one in the evening) 3.
Norina (one tablet after each meal).
During my medication period, I had sexual intercourse.
Can I take additional pre-exposure prophylaxis (like Esmya)? Will Esmya interact with the medications mentioned above, or can I take them together without any issues? Thank you, doctor!

Luna, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/11

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 can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, as it may decrease the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby lowering the contraceptive's efficacy.
2.
Sedatives (Barbiturates) - These can increase the metabolism of contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
3.
Antiepileptic drugs (Primidone, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine) - These also increase the metabolism of 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 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 contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
Therefore, if you need to take any of the aforementioned medications while on birth control, it is advisable to use additional contraceptive methods for at least seven days.
Additionally, long-term consumption of certain teas or herbs may also have additive or subtractive effects on oral contraceptives.
Furthermore, any medication should be taken with water and not with tea, coffee, or other beverages, as this may affect the medication's efficacy.

If you have any unusual symptoms, please consult your healthcare provider.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.

Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/03/11

More Info

When it comes to the interactions between birth control pills and other medications, it is crucial to understand how these drugs can affect each other and your overall health, especially if you are considering additional contraceptive methods.
You mentioned that you are currently taking three medications: Ediol (Estradiol 1mg), Wanse (a combination of various ingredients), and Norina (a progestin). These medications are often prescribed for hormonal regulation, menstrual cycle management, or other gynecological issues. The concern arises when considering the addition of another contraceptive pill, such as Aisilian (which is a brand name for a combined oral contraceptive).

Firstly, it is important to note that most combined oral contraceptives, including Aisilian, work by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining. When taken correctly, they are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. However, certain medications can interact with hormonal contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness.

For example, some antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, and herbal supplements like St. John's Wort can decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. On the other hand, medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) generally do not have a significant impact on hormonal contraceptives.

In your case, the medications you are currently taking (Ediol, Wanse, and Norina) do not typically interact negatively with Aisilian. However, the combination of multiple hormonal medications can sometimes lead to increased side effects, such as nausea, headaches, or mood changes. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before adding another hormonal contraceptive to your regimen. They can assess your specific situation, including any potential risks or benefits, and guide you on the best course of action.

If you have already engaged in sexual activity while on your current medications, it is crucial to consider the timing of your contraceptive methods. If you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy, you may want to discuss emergency contraception options with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, if you are considering long-term use of multiple hormonal contraceptives, it is advisable to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and any potential side effects. They can also provide guidance on the appropriate duration for using hormonal contraceptives and when it might be necessary to take a break or switch methods.

In summary, while it is generally safe to take Aisilian alongside your current medications, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that there are no contraindications or potential interactions that could affect your health or the effectiveness of your contraceptive methods. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any changes in your medication regimen, especially when it involves hormonal treatments.

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