Drug interactions
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Encorafenib
Severity: Major
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Encorafenib: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Encorafenib induces CYP3A4 and can reduce concentrations of hormonal contraceptives, risking contraceptive failure. Because encorafenib may harm the fetus, this is clinically significant.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Encorafenib 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.
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol belongs to Endocrine; Encorafenib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 induction by encorafenib accelerates metabolism of contraceptive hormones.
What to do
Use a highly effective non-hormonal contraceptive during treatment and for 2 weeks after the final dose.
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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References
Other interactions of Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol
- Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Fezolinetant Contraindicated
- Aminocaproic acid + Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol Major
- Amobarbital + Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol Major
- Anastrozole + Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol Major
- Apalutamide + Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol Major
- Atazanavir + Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol Major
Other interactions of Encorafenib
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with Encorafenib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Encorafenib 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. Encorafenib induces CYP3A4 and can reduce concentrations of hormonal contraceptives, risking contraceptive failure. Because encorafenib may harm the fetus, this is clinically significant.
How serious is the interaction between Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Encorafenib?
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 highly effective non-hormonal contraceptive during treatment and for 2 weeks after the final dose.
What other medicines interact with Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with, for example, Fezolinetant, Aminocaproic acid, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol page.
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