Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel
transdermal patch
- (30mcg/120mcg)/day
Contraception
Indicated for contraception in females of reproductive potential with a BMI <30 kg/m2 for whom a combined hormonal contraceptive is appropriate
28-day (4-week) cycle
- 1 new transdermal system (TDS) is applied and worn for 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks (Weeks 1, 2, and 3); no TDS is worn during Week 4 when withdrawal bleeding is expected
- Every new TDS should be applied on the same day of the week
- On the day after Week 4 ends, a new 28-day cycle is started by applying a new TDS
- Under no circumstances should there be >7-day TDS-free interval between dosing cycles
- If there are >7 TDS-free days, women may not be protected from pregnancy and nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) must be used for 7 days
- See Administration for how to initiate dosing if no contraception is currently used or if switching from another form of contraception
Dosing Considerations
Before prescribing, consider the drug’s reduced effectiveness in women with a BMI ≥25 to <30 kg/m2
Dosage Forms & Strengths
ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel
transdermal patch
- (30mcg/120mcg)/day
Contraception
Indicated for contraception in females of reproductive potential with a BMI <30 kg/m2 for whom a combined hormonal contraceptive is appropriate
28-day (4-week) cycle
- 1 new transdermal system (TDS) is applied and worn for 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks (Weeks 1, 2, and 3); no TDS is worn during Week 4 when withdrawal bleeding is expected
- Every new TDS should be applied on the same day of the week
- On the day after Week 4 ends, a new 28-day cycle is started by applying a new TDS
- Under no circumstances should there be >7-day TDS-free interval between dosing cycles
- If there are >7 TDS-free days, females may not be protected from pregnancy and nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) must be used for 7 days
- See Administration for how to initiate dosing if no contraception is currently used or if switching from another form of contraception
Dosing Considerations
Efficacy is expected to be the same in postmenarcheal females regardless of age
Before prescribing, consider the drug’s reduced effectiveness in women with a BMI ≥25 to <30 kg/m2
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (2)
- ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir & dasabuvir (DSC)
ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir & dasabuvir (DSC), ethinylestradiol. unspecified interaction mechanism. Contraindicated. Potential for increased ALT; contraceptive failure may occur when coadministered with protease inhibitors (ritonavir).
ethinylestradiol, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir & dasabuvir (DSC). Either increases toxicity of the other by unspecified interaction mechanism. Contraindicated. ALT elevations >5 x ULN (including some >20 x ULN) observed in clinical trials when ethinyl estradiol was coadministered with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir. Discontinue ethinyl estradiol-containing medications before initiating ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, and/or dasabuvir. Restart ethinyl estradiol containing medication ~2 weeks after hepatitis C combination drug regimen completed. - tranexamic acid oral
tranexamic acid oral, ethinylestradiol. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Contraindicated. Coadministration of tranexamic acid oral and combination hormonal contraceptives increases thrombotic risk.
Serious - Use Alternative (18)
- abametapir
abametapir will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. For 2 weeks after abametapir application, avoid taking drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates. If not feasible, avoid use of abametapir.
- amobarbital
amobarbital will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- anastrozole
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of anastrozole by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Anastrozole should not be given concurrently with any estrogens or estrogen-containing products.
- apalutamide
apalutamide will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of apalutamide, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, with drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates can result in lower exposure to these medications. Avoid or substitute another drug for these medications when possible. Evaluate for loss of therapeutic effect if medication must be coadministered. Adjust dose according to prescribing information if needed.
- armodafinil
armodafinil will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- atazanavir
atazanavir, ethinylestradiol. Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Significant changes (increase or decrease) can occur in estrogen plasma levels. Efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended. .
- belzutifan
belzutifan will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of belzutifan with hormonal contraceptives may lead to contraceptive failure or increased breakthrough bleeding. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective nonhormonal contraception. Based on animal studies, belzutifan can cause fetal harm.
- bosentan
bosentan will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- brigatinib
brigatinib will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Brigatinib induces CYP3A4 in vitro. Coadministration of hormonal contraceptives with brigatinib can result in decreased concentrations and loss of efficacy. Brigatinib can cause fetal harm. Women should use an effective nonhormonal method of contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last brigatinib dose.
- butabarbital
butabarbital will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- calaspargase pegol
calaspargase pegol, ethinylestradiol. unknown mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Due to the potential for an indirect interaction between calaspargase pegol and oral contraceptives, concomitant use of these drugs is not recommended. Use another non-oral contraceptive method for females of childbearing potential.
- carbamazepine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of carbamazepine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
carbamazepine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. - conivaptan
conivaptan will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- dexamethasone
dexamethasone will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- efavirenz
efavirenz will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- elagolix
levonorgestrel transdermal decreases effects of elagolix by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Based on the mechanism of action of elagolix, estrogen-containing contraceptives are expected to reduce elagolix efficacy. Effects of progestin-only contraceptives on the efficacy of elagolix is unknown. Advise women to use nonhormonal contraceptives during treatment with elagolix and for 1 week after discontinuing elagolix.
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of elagolix by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Based on the mechanism of action of elagolix, estrogen-containing contraceptives are expected to reduce elagolix efficacy. Effects of progestin-only contraceptives on the efficacy of elagolix is unknown. Advise women to use nonhormonal contraceptives during treatment with elagolix and for 1 week after discontinuing elagolix. - elvitegravir
elvitegravir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by unknown mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Consider alternative nonhormonal methods of contraception to add or replace combination oral contraceptive
- encorafenib
encorafenib will decrease the level or effect of levonorgestrel transdermal by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of encorafenib with hormonal contraceptives (CYP3A4 substrates) can result in decreased concentrations and loss of hormonal contraceptive efficacy. Since encorafenib can cause fetal harm, advise women of childbearing potential to use a highly effective nonhormonal contraceptive during treatment and for 2 weeks after final encorafenib dose.
Monitor Closely (147)
- albiglutide
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of albiglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- alosetron
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of alosetron by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- alprazolam
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of alprazolam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.
- aminocaproic acid
ethinylestradiol, aminocaproic acid. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Concomitant use may lead to additive hypercoagulability. Estrogens increase clotting factor production and platelet aggregation; aminocaproic acid inhibits fibrinolysis and activity of plasminogen.
- amoxicillin
amoxicillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.
- ampicillin
ampicillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- artemether/lumefantrine
artemether/lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- atogepant
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of atogepant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- atorvastatin
atorvastatin will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- axitinib
ethinylestradiol increases levels of axitinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- bendamustine
ethinylestradiol increases levels of bendamustine by decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Bendamustine is metabolized to minimally active metabolites by CYP1A2. Ethinyl estradiol is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor and concurrent administration may increase bendamustine concentrations in plasma. .
- caffeine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of caffeine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefaclor
cefaclor will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefadroxil
cefadroxil will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefazolin
cefazolin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefdinir
cefdinir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefepime
cefepime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefixime
cefixime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefotaxime
cefotaxime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefprozil
cefprozil will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ceftazidime
ceftazidime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ceftibuten
ceftibuten will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cefuroxime
cefuroxime will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cenobamate
cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Increase dose of CYP3A4 substrate, as needed, when coadministered with cenobamate.
cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of levonorgestrel transdermal by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Increase dose of CYP3A4 substrate, as needed, when coadministered with cenobamate.
cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of levonorgestrel transdermal by unspecified interaction mechanism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Advise women to use additional or alternative non-hormonal birth control when concomitantly using cenobamate with oral contraceptives.
cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by unspecified interaction mechanism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Advise women to use additional or alternative non-hormonal birth control when concomitantly using cenobamate with oral contraceptives. - cephalexin
cephalexin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cyclosporine
levonorgestrel transdermal, cyclosporine. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Combined oral contraceptives containing EE may inhibit the metabolism and increase plasma concentrations of cyclosporine.
- chloramphenicol
chloramphenicol will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cimetidine
cimetidine will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ciprofloxacin
ciprofloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clarithromycin
clarithromycin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- clindamycin
clindamycin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clobazam
clobazam will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Clobazam is a weak CYP3A4 inducer; effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives may be diminished when given concurrently with clobazam. Additional non-hormonal forms of contraception are recommended.
- clonazepam
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of clonazepam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.
- cyclosporine
ethinylestradiol increases levels of cyclosporine by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dabrafenib
dabrafenib will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- darunavir
darunavir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Significant changes (increase or decrease) can occur in estrogen plasma levels. Efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- dasatinib
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of dasatinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- deferasirox
deferasirox will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- demeclocycline
demeclocycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- diazepam
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of diazepam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.
- dicloxacillin
dicloxacillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- doxycycline
doxycycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- elagolix
elagolix will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Elagolix is a weak-to-moderate CYP3A4 inducer. Monitor CYP3A substrates if coadministered. Consider increasing CYP3A substrate dose if needed.
- eltrombopag
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of eltrombopag by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF
elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF increases levels of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Cobicistat is a CYP3A4 inhibitor; contraindicated with CYP3A4 substrates for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events.
- encorafenib
encorafenib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Encorafenib (a BCRP inhibitor) may increase the concentration and toxicities of BCRP substrates. Closely monitor for signs and symptoms of increased exposure and consider adjusting the dose of these substrates.
- erythromycin base
erythromycin base will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.
- erythromycin ethylsuccinate
erythromycin ethylsuccinate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.
- erythromycin lactobionate
erythromycin lactobionate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.
- erythromycin stearate
erythromycin stearate will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor. Antibiotics may decrease hormonal contraceptive efficacy.
- etravirine
etravirine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. The efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Use of a nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended.
- exenatide injectable solution
ethinylestradiol, exenatide injectable solution. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. The effect of exenatide to slow gastric emptying may reduce the extent and rate of oral medications that require rapid GI absorption. Advise patients to take oral contraceptives at least 1 hr before exenatide. .
- exenatide injectable suspension
ethinylestradiol, exenatide injectable suspension. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. The effect of exenatide to slow gastric emptying may reduce the extent and rate of oral medications that require rapid GI absorption. Advise patients to take oral contraceptives at least 1 hr before exenatide.
- fedratinib
fedratinib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Adjust dose of drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates as necessary.
- finerenone
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of finerenone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Monitor serum potassium during initiation and dosage adjustment of either finererone or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Adjust finererone dosage as needed.
- flibanserin
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of flibanserin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Increased flibanserin adverse effects may occur if coadministered with multiple weak CYP3A4 inhibitors.
- fluconazole
fluconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fluvoxamine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of fluvoxamine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fostemsavir
fostemsavir will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Fostemsavir inhibits BCRP transporters. If possible, avoid coadministration or modify dose of BCRP substrate coadministered with fostemsavir. Do not ethinyl estradiol dose of exceed 30 mcg/day.
- gemifloxacin
gemifloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- grapefruit
grapefruit will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- green tea
ethinylestradiol increases levels of green tea by decreasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor.
- hemin
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of hemin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Drugs that increase delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase may decrease hemin effect.
- hyaluronidase
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of hyaluronidase by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Estrogens, when given in large systemic doses, may render tissues partially resistant to the action of hyaluronidase. Patients may require larger amounts of hyaluronidase for equivalent dispersing effect.
- iloperidone
iloperidone increases levels of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Iloperidone is a time-dependent CYP3A inhibitor and may lead to increased plasma levels of drugs predominantly eliminated by CYP3A4.
- insulin aspart
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- insulin degludec
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin degludec by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may impair glucose tolerance.
- insulin degludec/insulin aspart
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin degludec/insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may impair glucose tolerance.
- insulin detemir
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin detemir by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- insulin glargine
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin glargine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- insulin glulisine
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin glulisine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- insulin inhaled
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin inhaled by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Estrogens may impair glucose tolerance.
- insulin lispro
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin lispro by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- insulin NPH
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin NPH by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- insulin regular human
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of insulin regular human by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- isavuconazonium sulfate
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of isavuconazonium sulfate by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- istradefylline
istradefylline will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Istradefylline 40 mg/day increased peak levels and AUC of CYP3A4 substrates in clinical trials. This effect was not observed with istradefylline 20 mg/day. Consider dose reduction of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates.
- itraconazole
itraconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as itraconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.
- ketoconazole
ketoconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.
- lamotrigine
ethinylestradiol decreases levels of lamotrigine by increasing hepatic clearance. Use Caution/Monitor. Combination oral contraceptives have been shown to significantly decrease plasma concentrations of lamotrigine, likely due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation.
- lapatinib
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of lapatinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lemborexant
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of lemborexant by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Lower nightly dose of lemborexant recommended if coadministered with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. See drug monograph for specific dosage modification.
- levofloxacin
levofloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- levoketoconazole
levoketoconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole may increase plasma hormone levels.
- liraglutide
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of liraglutide by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Oral contraceptives may decrease hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetics by impairing glucose tolerance. Monitor for glycemic control in diabetic patients.
- lixisenatide
lixisenatide will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. GLP1 agonists delay gastric emptying, which may affect absorption of concomitantly administered oral medications. Oral contraceptives should be taken at least 1 hr before lixisenatide administration or 11 hr after lixisenatide.
- lomitapide
ethinylestradiol increases levels of lomitapide by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Lomitapide dose should not exceed 30 mg/day.
- lonapegsomatropin
ethinylestradiol will decrease the level or effect of lonapegsomatropin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Oral estrogens may reduce serum insulin-like growth factor-1 response to lonapegsomatropin. Patients receiving oral estrogen replacement may require higher lonapegsomatropin dosages.
- lorlatinib
lorlatinib will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lumefantrine
lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metformin
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of metformin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metronidazole
metronidazole will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- mexiletine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of mexiletine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- midazolam
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of midazolam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.
- midazolam intranasal
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of midazolam intranasal by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of mild CYP3A4 inhibitors with midazolam intranasal may cause higher midazolam systemic exposure, which may prolong sedation.
- mifepristone
mifepristone decreases effects of ethinylestradiol by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Backup contraceptive method recommended.
- minocycline
minocycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- mitotane
mitotane decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Mitotane is a strong inducer of cytochrome P-4503A4; monitor when coadministered with CYP3A4 substrates for possible dosage adjustments.
- moxifloxacin
moxifloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nafcillin
nafcillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- neomycin PO
neomycin PO will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nicardipine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of nicardipine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nilotinib
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of nilotinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- nirmatrelvir
nirmatrelvir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by increasing metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider using additional nonhormonal contraceptive method for remainder of cycle. Mechanism unknown, but possibly by ritonavir CYP2C9 or CYP1A2 induction.
- nirmatrelvir/ritonavir
nirmatrelvir/ritonavir will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by increasing metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider using additional nonhormonal contraceptive method for remainder of cycle. Mechanism unknown, but possibly by ritonavir CYP2C9 or CYP1A2 induction.
- nitrofurantoin
nitrofurantoin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ofloxacin
ofloxacin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- olanzapine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of olanzapine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- oteseconazole
oteseconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Otesezonale, a BCRP inhibitor, may increase the effects and risk of toxicities of BCRP substrates. Use lowest starting dose of BCRP substrate, or consider reducing BCRP substrate dose.
- paromomycin
paromomycin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- penicillin G aqueous
penicillin G aqueous decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by increasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of oral contraceptive failure.
- penicillin VK
penicillin VK will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pioglitazone
pioglitazone decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- posaconazole
posaconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- quinupristin/dalfopristin
quinupristin/dalfopristin will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ramelteon
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ramelteon by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rasagiline
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of rasagiline by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Recommended dose of rasagiline is 0.5mg daily in combination with CYP1A2 inhibitors.
- ribociclib
ribociclib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- romidepsin
romidepsin decreases effects of ethinylestradiol by receptor binding competition. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ropinirole
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ropinirole by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
ethinylestradiol increases levels of ropinirole by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. - rucaparib
rucaparib will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Adjust dosage of CYP3A4 substrates, if clinically indicated.
- rufinamide
rufinamide decreases effects of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Rufinamide is a weak inducer of the CYP 3A4 enzyme and can decrease exposure of drugs that are substrates of CYP3A4. .
- selegiline
ethinylestradiol increases levels of selegiline by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives inhibit the N demethylatin of selegiline.
- selegiline transdermal
ethinylestradiol increases levels of selegiline transdermal by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Oral contraceptives inhibit the N demethylatin of selegiline.
- siltuximab
siltuximab, ethinylestradiol. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: CYP450 activity in the liver is down regulated by infection and inflammation stimuli including cytokines (eg, IL-6); inhibition of IL-6 by siltuximab may restore CYP450 enzymatic activity; caution if coadministered with CYP substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index.
- stiripentol
stiripentol, ethinylestradiol. affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Stiripentol is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and inducer. Monitor CYP3A4 substrates coadministered with stiripentol for increased or decreased effects. CYP3A4 substrates may require dosage adjustment.
- sulfadiazine
sulfadiazine will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sulfamethoxazole
sulfamethoxazole will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sulfisoxazole
sulfisoxazole will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tacrolimus
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of tacrolimus by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tazemetostat
tazemetostat will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of tazemetostat by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. - tecovirimat
tecovirimat will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Tecovirimat is a weak CYP3A4 inducer. Monitor sensitive CYP3A4 substrates for effectiveness if coadministered.
- teriflunomide
teriflunomide increases levels of ethinylestradiol by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tetracycline
tetracycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- theophylline
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of theophylline by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ticarcillin
ticarcillin will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tigecycline
tigecycline will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tinidazole
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of tinidazole by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tizanidine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of tizanidine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor for tizanidine adverse effects (eg, hypotension or bradycardia)
- tolterodine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of tolterodine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- triazolam
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of triazolam by Mechanism: decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Ethinyl estradiol may inhibit the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidation, thereby increasing serum concentrations of concomitantly administered benzodiazepines.
- trimethoprim
trimethoprim will decrease the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ursodiol
ethinylestradiol decreases effects of ursodiol by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- valproic acid
ethinylestradiol will decrease the level or effect of valproic acid by increasing elimination. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. May lead to increased seizure frequency
- vardenafil
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of vardenafil by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- voriconazole
voriconazole will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- warfarin
levonorgestrel transdermal increases effects of warfarin by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (27)
- amitriptyline
ethinylestradiol, amitriptyline. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Estrogens and progestins may decr tricyclic antidepressant effects, while increasing TCA plasma concentration and adverse effects.
- amoxapine
ethinylestradiol, amoxapine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Estrogens and progestins may decr tricyclic antidepressant effects, while increasing TCA plasma concentration and adverse effects.
- antipyrine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of antipyrine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- asenapine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of asenapine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- clarithromycin
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of clarithromycin by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- clomipramine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of clomipramine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- desipramine
ethinylestradiol, desipramine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- dosulepin
ethinylestradiol, dosulepin. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- doxepin
ethinylestradiol, doxepin. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- duloxetine
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of duloxetine by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- enasidenib
enasidenib, ethinylestradiol. unknown mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Coadministration of enasidenib may increase or decrease the concentrations of combined hormonal contraceptives. Clinical significance of this interaction is unknown.
- eplerenone
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of eplerenone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- felbamate
felbamate decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by unknown mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- frovatriptan
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of frovatriptan by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP1A2 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- imipramine
ethinylestradiol, imipramine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- mineral oil
mineral oil decreases levels of ethinylestradiol by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- naratriptan
ethinylestradiol increases effects of naratriptan by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. The clinical implication of these interactions is unknown.
- nefazodone
nefazodone will increase the level or effect of ethinylestradiol by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nortriptyline
ethinylestradiol, nortriptyline. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- protriptyline
ethinylestradiol, protriptyline. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- ramelteon
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ramelteon by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- rosuvastatin
rosuvastatin increases levels of ethinylestradiol by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ruxolitinib
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ruxolitinib by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ruxolitinib topical
ethinylestradiol will increase the level or effect of ruxolitinib topical by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- tizanidine
ethinylestradiol increases levels of tizanidine by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- trazodone
ethinylestradiol, trazodone. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
- trimipramine
ethinylestradiol, trimipramine. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Oxidative metabolism of TCAs may be decreased by ethinyl estradiol. Increased antidepressant serum concentrations may occur. Potential for increased TCA adverse effects.
Adverse Effects
1-10%
Application site disorder (6.2%)
Nausea (4.1%)
Headache (3.6%)
Dysmenorrhea (2.3%)
Increased weight (2%)
<1%
Cholelithiasis
Cholecystitis
Major depression
Suicidal ideation
Appendicitis
Ectopic pregnancy
Pneumonia
Gastroenteritis
Warnings
Black Box Warnings
Cigarette smoking and serious cardiovascular events
- Cigarette smoking increases risk of serious cardiovascular events from combined hormonal comtraceptive (CHC) use
- This risk increases with age, particularly in women aged ≥35 yr, and with the number of cigarettes smoked
- For this reason, CHCs are contraindicated in women aged ≥35 yr of age who smoke
Contraindicated with BMI 30 kg/m2 or greater
- Contraindicated in women with BMI ≥30 kg/m2
- Compared with lower BMI, women with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 had reduced effectiveness and may have a higher risk for venous thromboembolism events (VTEs)
Contraindications
Have headaches with focal neurological symptoms, migraine headaches with aura
Women aged >35 yr with any migraine headache
BMI ≥30 kg/m2; reduced effectiveness and may have higher risk for VTEs compared with women with lower BMI
Liver tumors (benign or malignant), acute viral hepatitis, severe (decompensated) cirrhosis, or liver disease
Undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding
Pregnancy, given there is no reason to use CHCs during pregnancy
Breast cancer or other estrogen- or progestin-sensitive cancer, now or in the past
Hypersensitivity to any components; observed reactions include itching and irritation at application site
Use of hepatitis C drug combinations containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, owing to potential for elevated ALT
High risk for arterial or VTEs
-
Examples include women who
- Smoke, if over aged ≥35 yr
- Have current or history of DVT or PE
- Have cerebrovascular disease
- Have coronary artery disease
- Have thrombogenic valvular or thrombogenic rhythm heart diseases (eg, SBE with valvular disease, atrial fibrillation)
- Have inherited or acquired hypercoagulopathies
- Have uncontrolled hypertension or hypertension with vascular disease
- Have diabetes mellitus and are aged ≥35 yr, diabetes mellitus with hypertension, or vascular disease or other end-organ damage, or diabetes mellitus of >20 years' duration
Cautions
Contraindicated with benign or malignant liver tumors, acute viral hepatitis, or severe cirrhosis; discontinue if jaundice occurs
Increased ALT observed in women taking ethinyl estradiol-containing medications with certain hepatitis C drug regimens (ie, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir)
Contraindicated with uncontrolled hypertension or hypertension with vascular disease; if administered to women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure; discontinue immediately if blood pressure increases significantly
Consider age-related risk factors for CV disease (eg, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity)
Increase risk of gall bladder disease among CHC users
Contraindicated in diabetic women aged ≥35 yr, or women who have diabetes with hypertension, nephropathy, retinopathy, or neuropathy, other vascular disease, or women with diabetes >20 yr duration
Contraindicated in women who have headaches with focal neurological symptoms or have migraine headaches with aura, and women aged ≥35 yr who have migraine headaches with or without aura
Carefully observe women with history of depression; discontinue if depression recurs to a serious degree
Some studies suggest that CHCs are associated with increased risk of cervical cancer or intraepithelial neoplasia; controversial whether these findings are caused by CHCs or sexual behavior and other factors
Estrogen may raise serum concentrations of thyroxine-binding globulin, sex hormone-binding globulin, and cortisol-binding globulin; dose of replacement thyroid hormone or cortisol therapy may need to be increased
Exogenous estrogens may induce or exacerbate symptoms of angioedema
Chloasma may occur, especially in women with a history of chloasma gravidarum; avoid sun exposure or ultraviolet radiation
Thromboembolic disorders and other vascular conditions
- Women are at increased risk for VTE when using CHCs
- VTE risk may be greater with BMI ≥30 kg/m2 compared with lower BMI and CHCs are contraindicated in obese patients
-
Additional information
- Discontinue if an arterial or VTE occurs
- Discontinue if unexplained loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, papilledema, or retinal vascular lesions occurs; evaluate for retinal vein thrombosis immediately
- Discontinue during prolonged immobilization and resume treatment based on clinical judgement; if feasible, stop at least 4 weeks before and through 2 weeks after major surgery or other surgeries known to have an elevated risk of thromboembolism
- Start no earlier than 4 weeks after delivery in women who are not breastfeeding; risk of postpartum thromboembolism decreases after the third postpartum week, whereas the likelihood of ovulation increases after the third postpartum week
- Before initiating, evaluate any medical history or family history of thromboembolism or thromboembolic disorders; consider whether the history suggests an inherited or acquired hypercoagulopathy
- Contraindicated in women with high risk of arterial or VTE, including women aged ≥35 yr who smoke
Bleeding irregularities and amenorrhea
-
Bleeding and spotting
- Women may experience unscheduled (breakthrough or intracyclic) bleeding and spotting, especially during the first 3 months of use
- Bleeding irregularities may resolve over time or by changing to a different contraceptive product
- If bleeding persists or occurs after previously regular cycles, evaluate for causes (eg, pregnancy, malignancy)
-
Amenorrhea and oligomenorrhea
- Women may experience absence of scheduled (withdrawal) bleeding, even if they are not pregnant
- If scheduled bleeding does not occur, consider the possibility of pregnancy
- Evaluate adherence and rule out pregnancy
Drug interaction overview
-
Drugs that decrease systemic exposure of hormonal contraceptives
- Enzyme inducers: May decrease plasma concentrations of estrogen and/or progestin component of CHCs
- Colesevelam: Coadministration significantly decreases systemic exposure of ethinyl estradiol
- HIV protease inhibitors (eg, nelfinavir, ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, fosamprenavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and tipranavir/ritonavir) and some non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (eg, nevirapine)
-
Drugs that increase systemic exposure of hormonal contraceptives
- HIV protease inhibitors (eg, indinavir, atazanavir/ritonavir) and with other non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (eg, etravirine)
- Atorvastatin or rosuvastatin increase systemic exposure of ethinyl estradiol by ~20-25%
- Ascorbic acid and acetaminophen may increase systemic exposure of ethinyl estradiol, possibly by inhibition of conjugation
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (eg, itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, grapefruit juice, ketoconazole) may increase systemic exposure of estrogen and/or progestin
-
CHC effect on other drugs
- Lamotrigine systemic exposure may be significantly decreased owing to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation; lamotrigine dose adjustment may be required
- Thyroid hormone: CHCs may increase systemic exposure of thyroid-binding globulin; thyroid hormone dose may need to be increased
- Corticosteroids: CHCs may increase systemic exposure of cortisol-binding globulin; corticosteroid dose may need to be increased
- CHCs may decrease systemic exposure of acetaminophen, morphine, salicylic acid, and temazepam
- CHCs may increase systemic exposure of cyclosporine, prednisolone, theophylline, tizanidine, and voriconazole
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
Contraindicated
Discontinue if pregnancy occurs
Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or nongenital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb-reduction defects) following exposure to CHCs before conception or during early pregnancy
Lactation
Contraceptive hormones and/or metabolites are present in human milk
CHCs can reduce milk production in breastfeeding women, but this is less likely to occur once breastfeeding is well established
Advise breastfeeding women to use another method of contraception until breastfeeding discontinued
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Combination hormonal contraceptives lower the risk of becoming pregnant primarily by suppressing ovulation
Ethinyl estradiol: Reduces LHRH release from hypothalamus and reduces gonadotropin release from pituitary; increases synthesis of DNA, RNA, and various proteins in target tissues; other possible mechanisms include changes in cervical mucus that cause inhibition of sperm penetration and endometrial changes that reduce likelihood of implantation
Levonorgestrel transdermal: Synthetic progestin; ovulation is inhibited from a negative feedback mechanism on hypothalamus, leading to reduced secretion of FSH and LH
Absorption
Concentration at steady-state
-
Cycle 1
- Average steady-state concentration, levonorgestrel: 842 pg/mL (week 1); 2009 pg/mL (week 3)
- Average steady-state concentration, ethinyl estradiol: 31.9 pg/mL (week 1); 34.8 pg/mL (week 3)
- AUC levonorgestrel: 120 ng⋅h/mL (week 1); 339 ng⋅h/mL (week 3)
- AUC ethinyl estradiol: 5040 pg⋅h/mL (week 1); 6210 pg⋅h/mL (week 3)
-
Cycle 2
- Average steady-state concentration, levonorgestrel: 1389 pg/mL (week 1); 2209 pg/mL (week 3)
- Average steady-state concentration, ethinyl estradiol: 38.6 pg/mL (week 1); 40.3 pg/mL (week 3)
- AUC levonorgestrel: 207 ng⋅h/mL (week 1); 378 ng⋅h/mL (week 3)
- AUC ethinyl estradiol: 6060 pg⋅h/mL (week 1); 7120 pg⋅h/mL (week 3)
Distribution
Protein bound
- Levonorgestrel: Primarily bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
- Ethinyl estradiol: 97% bound to plasma albumin; does not bind to SHBG, but induces SHBG synthesis
Metabolism
Since it is applied transdermally, first-pass metabolism (via GI tract and/or liver) of levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol that would be expected with PO administration does not occur
Levonorgestrel
- The most important hepatic metabolic pathways are reduction of the delta-4-3-oxo group and hydroxylation at positions 2-alpha, 1-beta, and 16-beta, followed by conjugation
- Most circulating metabolites are sulfates of 3-alpha, 5-beta-tetrahydro-levonorgestrel, while excretion is mostly in the form of glucuronides
Ethinyl estradiol
- CYP3A4 metabolism in the liver is responsible for 2-hydroxylation that is the major oxidative reaction
- 2-Hydroxy metabolite is further transformed by methylation and glucuronidation before urinary and fecal excretion
Elimination
Half-life
-
Elimination half-life
- Levonorgestrel: 38.2 hr (cycle 1, week 3); 40.5 hr (cycle 2, week 3)
- Ethinyl estradiol: 19.7 hr (cycle 1, week 3); 20.5 hr (cycle 2, week 3)
-
Mean terminal half-life
- Levonorgestrel: 41 hr
- Ethinyl estradiol: 21 hr
Excretion
- Levonorgestrel: 40-68% urine; 16-48% feces
- Ethinyl estradiol: Excreted in urine and feces and glucuronide and sulfate conjugates; undergoes enterohepatic recirculation
Administration
Transdermal Administration
Application
- For transdermal use only
- To achieve maximum contraceptive effectiveness, transdermal system (TDS) must be used exactly as directed; failure rate may increase when TDS application is delayed/missed or when TDS is applied incorrectly
- Apply TDS to clean, dry, and intact skin on abdomen, buttock, or upper torso (excluding breasts)
- When applying a new TDS, do not apply the new TDS directly over the previous TDS site
- Do not apply to skin that has been exposed to powder, oil, moisturizer, or lotion
- Advise women not to routinely use large amounts of body lotions or oils at application sites
- Prolonged exposure to water may interfere with TDS adherence
- Do not cut or alter TDS in any way; apply whole TDS; if TDS is cut or damaged or altered in size, contraceptive efficacy may be impaired
- Discard by folding used TDS so that the adhesive side sticks to itself and safely discard in the trash
- Used TDS still contains some active hormones; should not be flushed down the toilet
TDS edge lifts up
- Press down firmly on TDS with the palm of the hand for 10 seconds, making sure that the whole TDS is adhered to skin
- Then run fingers over the entire surface area to smooth out any wrinkles around the edges of the TDS
- If lifted edge of TDS does not stick completely after attempted readhesion, remove TDS and replace with new TDS
- Do not tape or wrap TDS to skin or reapply a TDS that is partially adhered to clothing
TDS has been off or partially off
-
<1 day
- Try to reapply TDS; if TDS does not adhere completely, apply new TDS immediately
- No back-up contraception is needed and the Patch Change Day will stay the same
-
>1 day or unsure of timeframe
- Woman may not be protected from pregnancy
- Reduce pregnancy risk by applying new TDS and start a new 4-week cycle
- The woman will now have a new Patch Change Day and MUST use nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) for the first 7 days of the new cycle
Starting in women with no current hormonal contraceptive
-
Day 1 start
- Apply first TDS during the first 24 hr of menstruation
- Apply a new TDS each week for 3 weeks (21 total days) on the same day each week
- No TDS is worn during Week 4
- If a TDS is applied after the first 24 hr of menstruation, use nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) concurrently for first 7 days of first cycle only
Switching from an oral combination hormonal contraceptive
- Complete the current pill cycle and apply the first TDS on the day the next pill cycle would normally start
- If menses does not occur within a week after taking the last active pill, instruct the woman to consult with a healthcare professional to be sure that pregnancy has not occurred
- If no pregnancy has occurred, TDS may be started for contraception
- If initiated >1 week after taking the last active pill, use nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) concurrently for first 7 days
Switching from a transdermal hormonal contraceptive
- Complete current TDS cycle and apply the first Twirla TDS on the day the next TDS cycle would normally start
- If menses does not occur within a week after removing the last TDS, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure pregnancy has not occurred
- If no pregnancy has occurred, Twirla TDS may be started for contraception
- If Twirla TDS is applied >1 week after removal of the last TDS, use nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) concurrently for first 7 days
Switching from vaginal ring
- Complete vaginal ring cycle and apply the first TDS on the day the next vaginal ring would normally start
- If menses does not occur within a week after removing vaginal ring, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure pregnancy has not occurred
- If no pregnancy has occurred, TDS may be started for contraception
- If TDS is applied >1 week after vaginal ring removal, use nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, or diaphragm and spermicide) concurrently for first 7 days
Injection, intrauterine system, implant, or progestin-only pill
- Injection: Apply first TDS on the day the next injection would normally occur
- Intrauterine system or implant: Apply first TDS on the day of intrauterine system/implant removal
- Progestin-only pill: Apply first TDS on the day the next progestin-only pill cycle would normally start
Starting after abortion or miscarriage
-
First trimester abortion or miscarriage
- May be started immediately within the first 5 days following a complete first trimester abortion or miscarriage without additional back-up contraception
- If >5 days have elapsed from the first trimester abortion or miscarriage, use nonhormonal contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) and follow instructions for starting TDS for the first time
- Ovulation may occur within 10 days of an abortion or miscarriage
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Second trimester abortion or miscarriage
- Do not start earlier than 4 weeks after a second trimester abortion or miscarriage owing to increased risk of thromboembolism
Starting after childbirth
- For women who elect not to breastfeed, do not start sooner than 4 weeks after childbirth owing to increased risk of thromboembolism
- If a woman begins using TDS postpartum and has not yet had a period, consider possibility of ovulation and pregnancy; obtain pregnancy test to guide action
- If not pregnant, use nonhormonal back-up contraception (eg, condoms and spermicide, diaphragm and spermicide) for the first 7 days of TDS use
Missed doses
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Forgetting to change TDS
- At the start of any TDS cycle (Week 1/Day 1): May not be protected from pregnancy; apply the first TDS as soon as possible (this now starts a new 4-week cycle and is now the new Patch Change Day); use nonhormonal back-up contraception for 7 days
- In the middle of TDS cycle (Week 2/Day 8 or Week 3/Day 15), for up to 48 hr: Apply new TDS immediately; apply next TDS on the usual Patch Change Day; no back-up contraception needed
- ≥48 hr: May not be protected from pregnancy; stop current TDS cycle and start a new 4-week cycle immediately by applying a new TDS (this is now a new Patch Change Day); use nonhormonal back-up contraception for 7 days
- At end of TDS cycle Week 3 (Day 22): If the woman forgets to remove her TDS, she should take it off as soon as she remembers; start next cycle on the usual Patch Change Day, which is the day after Day 28; no back-up contraception needed
Storage
Store in original pouch until application time
Store at room temperature 20-25ºC (68-77ºF); excursions permitted to 15-30ºC (59-86ºF)
Images
Formulary
Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
