Drug interactions
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Griseofulvin
Severity: Major
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Griseofulvin: 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
Griseofulvin has been associated with breakthrough bleeding, menstrual irregularities and reduced reliability of combined hormonal contraceptives. This may result in unintended pregnancy. Griseofulvin is also teratogenic, which heightens the importance of reliable contraception.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Griseofulvin 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; Griseofulvin belongs to Anti Fungals.
Why it happens
Griseofulvin is thought to induce hepatic enzymes, including CYP3A4, increasing metabolism of contraceptive steroids.
What to do
Use a reliable non-hormonal contraceptive method alongside or instead of the pill during griseofulvin treatment and for about a month afterward. Counsel the patient on breakthrough bleeding as a warning sign.
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 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 Griseofulvin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with Griseofulvin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Griseofulvin 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. Griseofulvin has been associated with breakthrough bleeding, menstrual irregularities and reduced reliability of combined hormonal contraceptives. This may result in unintended pregnancy. Griseofulvin is also teratogenic, which heightens the importance of reliable contraception.
How serious is the interaction between Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Griseofulvin?
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 reliable non-hormonal contraceptive method alongside or instead of the pill during griseofulvin treatment and for about a month afterward. Counsel the patient on breakthrough bleeding as a warning sign.
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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