Do Cold Medications Affect the Efficacy of Emergency Contraceptive Pills? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Postcoital contraceptive drug interactions?


I took a single emergency contraceptive pill at 5:30 PM on March 13, and I took it within 24 hours after intercourse.
After taking the emergency contraceptive, I took cold medicine 2 to 3 hours later.
Will taking the cold medicine affect the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive?

Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, it generally does not have an impact.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/03/14

More Info


When it comes to the interaction between cold medications and emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), it's important to understand how these medications work and the potential for any interactions that could affect their efficacy.

Emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) or Ella (ulipristal acetate), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. The timing of taking these pills is crucial; they are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours for Plan B and up to 120 hours for Ella.

Cold medications typically contain a combination of ingredients such as antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants, and pain relievers. The most common active ingredients in over-the-counter cold medications include pseudoephedrine, diphenhydramine, and acetaminophen. Generally, these ingredients do not have a direct impact on the hormonal mechanisms of emergency contraceptive pills.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
1. Antihistamines: Some cold medications contain antihistamines like diphenhydramine, which can cause drowsiness. While this does not affect the efficacy of ECPs, it may impact your overall well-being and ability to function after taking both medications.

2. Gastrointestinal Effects: If the cold medication causes nausea or vomiting, it could potentially affect the absorption of the emergency contraceptive pill. If vomiting occurs within two hours of taking the ECP, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider, as a second dose may be necessary.

3. Drug Interactions: While most common cold medications do not interact with ECPs, certain medications can affect the metabolism of hormonal contraceptives. For example, some antibiotics (like rifampin) and anti-seizure medications can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. However, typical cold medications are not known to have this effect.

4. Timing: Since you took the emergency contraceptive pill shortly after unprotected intercourse and then took the cold medication a few hours later, the timing is crucial. As long as you did not experience any adverse gastrointestinal effects that could hinder absorption, the cold medication should not significantly impact the efficacy of the ECP.

In conclusion, taking cold medications shortly after taking an emergency contraceptive pill should not affect the efficacy of the ECP, provided that you do not experience any side effects that could impair absorption. If you have any concerns about your specific situation or if you experience any unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. They can provide guidance based on your health history and the specific medications you are taking.

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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, I don't think so. Wishing you good health.

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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it generally does not have an impact. Wishing you good health.

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