Can You Take Accutane with Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Medication issues

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if it is safe to take A acid (tretinoin) together with the emergency contraceptive pill "Ella" (ulipristal acetate)?

Z, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/27

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.
When taking these medications, alternative contraceptive methods should be used, as they may decrease the gut flora that aids in absorption, thereby lowering the effectiveness of the contraceptive.
2.
Sedatives (Barbiturates) can increase the metabolism of oral contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
3.
Antiepileptic drugs (Primidone, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine) can 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) may inhibit estrogen metabolism, potentially increasing serum concentrations and the occurrence of side effects.
7.
Oral contraceptives can affect the action of anticoagulants.
8.
Smoking can increase the metabolism of oral contraceptives, reducing their effectiveness.
9.
Long-term consumption of tea or certain herbs may have additive or subtractive effects on oral contraceptives.
Additionally, 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 must take any of the aforementioned medications while on oral contraceptives, it is advisable to use additional contraceptive measures for seven days.
The likelihood of interaction with the medications you mentioned is low.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2023/03/27

More Info

When considering the use of Accutane (isotretinoin) alongside emergency contraceptive pills such as Ella (ulipristal acetate), it's important to understand both medications' mechanisms, potential interactions, and safety profiles.

Accutane is a powerful medication primarily used to treat severe acne that has not responded to other treatments. It works by significantly reducing the size and activity of sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin, leading to decreased oil production and, consequently, reduced acne formation. However, Accutane is known for its potential side effects, including teratogenic effects, which means it can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Therefore, women of childbearing age are usually required to use effective contraception while on Accutane and must undergo regular pregnancy tests.

On the other hand, emergency contraceptive pills like Ella are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Ella works primarily by delaying ovulation and may also alter the uterine lining to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 120 hours.

Regarding the question of whether Accutane can be taken with emergency contraceptive pills, there are no known direct drug interactions between Accutane and Ella. This means that taking them together does not diminish the effectiveness of either medication. However, it is crucial to consider the following points:
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting any new medication, including emergency contraceptive pills, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current medications.

2. Potential Side Effects: Both medications can have side effects. Accutane can cause dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, while Ella can lead to nausea, fatigue, and headache. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking these medications together, seek medical attention promptly.

3. Pregnancy Prevention: If you are taking Accutane, it is crucial to ensure that you are not pregnant before starting the medication, as it can cause severe birth defects. If you have had unprotected intercourse and are concerned about pregnancy, taking Ella can help prevent it, but you should still confirm your pregnancy status before starting Accutane.

4. Contraceptive Measures: While on Accutane, it is essential to use reliable contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy. If you are using emergency contraception, ensure that you follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss ongoing contraceptive options.

In summary, taking Accutane with emergency contraceptive pills like Ella is generally considered safe, with no significant interactions reported. However, due to the serious implications of Accutane on pregnancy, it is vital to maintain effective contraception and consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any medications you are taking to ensure your safety and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Do Emergency Contraceptives Affect the Efficacy of Birth Control Pills?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking the combined oral contraceptive pill (drospirenone 3mg/ethinyl estradiol 0.03mg) while simultaneously taking the emergency contraceptive pill (levonorgestrel 1.5mg) will affect the efficacy of the combined oral contraceptive. Is there ...

Dr. Hong Kunyi reply Pharmacology
Hello, miss: If you have been taking your birth control pills on time, even if you accidentally take emergency contraception, it should not affect the effectiveness of your birth control. However, if you have missed any doses of your birth control pills, please be aware that if y...

Interactions Between Emergency Contraceptives and Common Medications

1. Currently taking chronic prescriptions Donison 5mg/tab, Methotrexate 2.5mg/tab, and Strocain tab. Can these medications be taken simultaneously with oral contraceptives? 2. Will taking them together reduce the effectiveness of the oral contraceptives? Thank you for your respon...

Dr. Chen Jianfang reply Pharmacology
Hello, user: According to the drug interaction database, generally, it should not affect the effectiveness of contraception. If you have concerns, you may use condoms during the medication period before engaging in sexual activity. Thank you for your message, and I wish you healt...

Can You Take Birth Control Pills After Emergency Contraceptive Use?

Hello, doctor. I have started taking oral contraceptives, and today I am about to take my first pill. However, I had unprotected intercourse today and have already taken emergency contraception. Can I continue taking the oral contraceptives after taking the emergency contraceptio...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you too. Wishing you good health.

Can Taking Emergency Contraceptive After Antibiotics Affect Its Effectiveness?

Hello, if you take Cero Capsules antibiotic at 11 PM and then take the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella (ulipristal acetate), at 2 AM, will it still be effective for contraception?

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Dear Miss Yang, I apologize for the late response. The emergency contraceptive you are taking does not interact with the antibiotics you are using. However, certain medications may reduce the effectiveness of emergency contraceptives. These include sedatives such as phenobarbita...