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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Taking Tricyclen For UTI. What Is The Drug Interaction With Birth Control Pills?

Hi, I'm currently taking Tri-Cyclen Lo, and starting an antibiotic for my UTI, Apo-Sulfatrim 400/80mg. I get mixed reviews from different pharmacists about it's reaction with the birth control pill. It is my only form of protection, and I'm wondering if this anti-biotic will lower the effectiveness of the pill. Thanks for your help!
Mon, 20 May 2013
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi.
Thanks for asking in Healthcare Magic.

Ap[o-Sulfatrim is a combination of Trimethoprim and Sulfamethoxazole, and is used in the treatment of UTI. Some of the antibiotics like Tetracyclines and Ampicillin interfere with the deconjugation of the OCP.

De conjugation is a process that allows for entero hepatic circulation resulting in longer duration of action of oral contraceptives. By interfering with deconjugation, these antibiotics reduce the duration of action of OCP and inhibit their efficacy. This causes contraceptive failure.

But, Apo-sulfatrim does not interfere with the deconjugation and can be safely taken along with OCP. But you should take plenty of water along with this drug to prevent crystalluria.

I hope this is useful.
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Taking Tricyclen For UTI. What Is The Drug Interaction With Birth Control Pills?

Hi. Thanks for asking in Healthcare Magic. Ap[o-Sulfatrim is a combination of Trimethoprim and Sulfamethoxazole, and is used in the treatment of UTI. Some of the antibiotics like Tetracyclines and Ampicillin interfere with the deconjugation of the OCP. De conjugation is a process that allows for entero hepatic circulation resulting in longer duration of action of oral contraceptives. By interfering with deconjugation, these antibiotics reduce the duration of action of OCP and inhibit their efficacy. This causes contraceptive failure. But, Apo-sulfatrim does not interfere with the deconjugation and can be safely taken along with OCP. But you should take plenty of water along with this drug to prevent crystalluria. I hope this is useful.