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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Antibiotics That Interfere With Oral Contraceptives. Am I In Risk Of Pregnancy?

Hello I was recently on a course of antibiotics and have since found out that they can intefere with oral contraceptives, I am worried because although im no longer taking the medication I dont want to be at risk of pregnancy which I now fear may be the case. I finished them on 28th December but have since slept with someone and need to know wether I need to get emergency contraception .
Mon, 7 Jan 2013
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OBGYN,  's  Response
Hello
thanks for your query
Some antibiotics DO interfere with the metabolism of oral contraceptive pills, and this should be informed to your healthcare provider.
Now since you have anyway taken the pack, nothing can be done about it.
Also, it is too late for emergency contraception, as that is best taken within 24 hours, and of no use after 72 hours.
All you can do now is to await your period, and test for pregnancy at the earliest sign of a missed period.
Also, do not worry, as if the rest of the pack was taken properly, and the antibiotics were not long duration or heavy dose, the pill would still protect you
Take care.
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General & Family Physician,  Dr. Mamun Kabir's  Response
thank you. you not mention the name of antibiotic taken. there are some drugs which induce cytochrome p450 enzyme which increases OCP metabolism ultimately leading to breakthrough bleeding or failure of contraception.rifampicin & griseofalvin are well recognized but amoxycillin,ampicillin,erythromycin,tetracycline may also induce.if you have used these drugs then you can take emergency contraceptive for your safety.
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Antibiotics That Interfere With Oral Contraceptives. Am I In Risk Of Pregnancy?

Hello thanks for your query Some antibiotics DO interfere with the metabolism of oral contraceptive pills, and this should be informed to your healthcare provider. Now since you have anyway taken the pack, nothing can be done about it. Also, it is too late for emergency contraception, as that is best taken within 24 hours, and of no use after 72 hours. All you can do now is to await your period, and test for pregnancy at the earliest sign of a missed period. Also, do not worry, as if the rest of the pack was taken properly, and the antibiotics were not long duration or heavy dose, the pill would still protect you Take care.