Drug interactions
Azithromycin + Dienogest / estradiol valerate
Severity: Minor
Azithromycin and Dienogest / estradiol valerate: 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
It has been theorized that antibiotics reduce enterohepatic recirculation of estrogens by altering gut flora. Clinical studies of non-rifamycin antibiotics have not shown a consistent loss of contraceptive efficacy, so the risk is considered low.
What this interaction means in plain words
Azithromycin and Dienogest / estradiol valerate 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
Theoretical reduction of estrogen enterohepatic recirculation through changes in intestinal flora; not firmly established.
What to do
No routine change is needed. Advise the patient to use additional contraception if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs.
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 Azithromycin
- Azithromycin + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Domperidone Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Piperaquine Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Azithromycin with Dienogest / estradiol valerate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Azithromycin and Dienogest / estradiol valerate have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. It has been theorized that antibiotics reduce enterohepatic recirculation of estrogens by altering gut flora. Clinical studies of non-rifamycin antibiotics have not shown a consistent loss of contraceptive efficacy, so the risk is considered low.
How serious is the interaction between Azithromycin and Dienogest / estradiol valerate?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine change is needed. Advise the patient to use additional contraception if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs.
What other medicines interact with Azithromycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Azithromycin with, for example, Cisapride, Domperidone, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Azithromycin page.
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