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Drug interactions

Cefaclor + Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate

Severity: Minor

Cefaclor and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate: 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

Antibiotics have been theorised to lower oral contraceptive efficacy. Evidence shows no consistent reduction in hormone exposure with non-rifamycin antibiotics, and contraceptive failure is considered unlikely.

What this interaction means in plain words

Cefaclor and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Theoretical disruption of gut flora, reducing enterohepatic recycling of ethinylestradiol.

What to do

No routine change is needed; advise backup contraception if vomiting or severe diarrhoea occurs or if doses are missed.

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?

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 Cefaclor with Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cefaclor and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Antibiotics have been theorised to lower oral contraceptive efficacy. Evidence shows no consistent reduction in hormone exposure with non-rifamycin antibiotics, and contraceptive failure is considered unlikely.

How serious is the interaction between Cefaclor and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate?

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 backup contraception if vomiting or severe diarrhoea occurs or if doses are missed.

What other medicines interact with Cefaclor?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Cefaclor with, for example, Bcg vaccine live, Cholera vaccine, Kanamycin. The full list is on the Cefaclor page.

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