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Drug interactions

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Midazolam

Severity: Minor

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Midazolam: 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

Oral contraceptives can reduce the clearance of oxidatively metabolized benzodiazepines such as midazolam, producing somewhat greater or longer sedation. The effect is typically modest.

What this interaction means in plain words

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Midazolam have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol belongs to Endocrine; Midazolam belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Ethinyl estradiol weakly inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of midazolam.

What to do

Monitor sedation and respiratory status, and titrate the midazolam dose to effect.

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 Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with Midazolam?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Midazolam have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Oral contraceptives can reduce the clearance of oxidatively metabolized benzodiazepines such as midazolam, producing somewhat greater or longer sedation. The effect is typically modest.

How serious is the interaction between Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Midazolam?

MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor sedation and respiratory status, and titrate the midazolam dose to effect.

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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