Drug interactions
Butabarbital + Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate
Severity: Major
Butabarbital and Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate: 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
Barbiturates induce hepatic enzymes and can lower contraceptive hormone levels. This can cause breakthrough bleeding and contraceptive failure.
What this interaction means in plain words
Butabarbital and Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate 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.
Why it happens
Induction of CYP3A4 and other hepatic enzymes accelerates the metabolism of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate.
What to do
Use a non-hormonal contraceptive method during barbiturate therapy and for several weeks after stopping.
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?
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Other interactions of Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate
- Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate + Fezolinetant Contraindicated
- Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate + Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir Contraindicated
- Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate + Tranexamic acid Contraindicated
- Aminocaproic acid + Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate Major
- Amobarbital + Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate Major
- Anastrozole + Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Butabarbital with Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Butabarbital and Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate 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. Barbiturates induce hepatic enzymes and can lower contraceptive hormone levels. This can cause breakthrough bleeding and contraceptive failure.
How serious is the interaction between Butabarbital and Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use a non-hormonal contraceptive method during barbiturate therapy and for several weeks after stopping.
What other medicines interact with Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate with, for example, Fezolinetant, Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir, Tranexamic acid. The full list is on the Ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate page.
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