Drug interactions
Amitriptyline + Ethinylestradiol
Severity: Minor
Amitriptyline and Ethinylestradiol: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Ethinylestradiol may raise tricyclic antidepressant exposure, and increased amitriptyline adverse effects have been reported with estrogen-containing contraceptives. The effect varies between patients.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amitriptyline and Ethinylestradiol have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible estrogen-related inhibition of hepatic tricyclic metabolism; the mechanism is not firmly established.
What to do
Monitor for sedation, anticholinergic effects and loss of antidepressant response when starting or stopping the estrogen. Adjust the amitriptyline dose if needed.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Amitriptyline
- Amitriptyline + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amitriptyline with Ethinylestradiol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Amitriptyline and Ethinylestradiol have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Ethinylestradiol may raise tricyclic antidepressant exposure, and increased amitriptyline adverse effects have been reported with estrogen-containing contraceptives. The effect varies between patients.
How serious is the interaction between Amitriptyline and Ethinylestradiol?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for sedation, anticholinergic effects and loss of antidepressant response when starting or stopping the estrogen. Adjust the amitriptyline dose if needed.
What other medicines interact with Amitriptyline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Amitriptyline with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Amitriptyline page.
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