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Drug interactions

Bosentan + Norgestrel

Severity: Major

Bosentan and Norgestrel: major 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

Bosentan induces CYP3A4 and can lower circulating progestin levels, which may reduce the contraceptive efficacy of norgestrel. Bosentan is also teratogenic, so contraceptive failure carries serious consequences.

What this interaction means in plain words

Bosentan and Norgestrel can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Bosentan belongs to Miscellaneous; Norgestrel belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Bosentan induces CYP3A4, increasing the metabolism of norgestrel.

What to do

Do not rely on a hormonal contraceptive alone during bosentan therapy; add a reliable barrier method or use an alternative such as an intrauterine device. Perform pregnancy tests as required by the bosentan program.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Bosentan with Norgestrel?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bosentan and Norgestrel can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Bosentan induces CYP3A4 and can lower circulating progestin levels, which may reduce the contraceptive efficacy of norgestrel. Bosentan is also teratogenic, so contraceptive failure carries serious consequences.

How serious is the interaction between Bosentan and Norgestrel?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not rely on a hormonal contraceptive alone during bosentan therapy; add a reliable barrier method or use an alternative such as an intrauterine device. Perform pregnancy tests as required by the bosentan program.

What other medicines interact with Bosentan?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Bosentan with, for example, Cyclosporin, Cyclosporine, Glyburide. The full list is on the Bosentan page.

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