Drug interactions
Clarithromycin + Etonogestrel
Severity: Minor
Clarithromycin and Etonogestrel: 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
Clarithromycin may increase etonogestrel exposure by inhibiting CYP3A4. This can heighten progestogenic adverse effects such as bleeding irregularities, though contraceptive efficacy is not reduced.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clarithromycin and Etonogestrel have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Clarithromycin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Etonogestrel belongs to Endocrine.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 inhibition by clarithromycin decreases the metabolic clearance of etonogestrel.
What to do
No change in contraceptive regimen is generally required. Counsel the patient to report unusual bleeding or other adverse effects during the antibiotic course.
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 Clarithromycin
- Astemizole + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Colchicine Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Conivaptan Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Dihydroergotamine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Etonogestrel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clarithromycin with Etonogestrel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Clarithromycin and Etonogestrel have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Clarithromycin may increase etonogestrel exposure by inhibiting CYP3A4. This can heighten progestogenic adverse effects such as bleeding irregularities, though contraceptive efficacy is not reduced.
How serious is the interaction between Clarithromycin and Etonogestrel?
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 change in contraceptive regimen is generally required. Counsel the patient to report unusual bleeding or other adverse effects during the antibiotic course.
What other medicines interact with Clarithromycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clarithromycin with, for example, Astemizole, Avanafil, Cisapride. The full list is on the Clarithromycin page.
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