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Drug interactions

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Moxifloxacin

Severity: Minor

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Moxifloxacin: 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 theorized to reduce contraceptive efficacy by disrupting gut flora that recycle estrogen. Pharmacokinetic data do not show meaningful reductions in hormone levels and true contraceptive failure is poorly documented.

What this interaction means in plain words

Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Moxifloxacin 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; Moxifloxacin belongs to Anti Bacterial.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

The theoretical mechanism is reduced enterohepatic recirculation of ethinyl estradiol through altered intestinal flora, which is not well established.

What to do

No additional contraception is routinely required; advise backup if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs.

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 Moxifloxacin?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Moxifloxacin 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 theorized to reduce contraceptive efficacy by disrupting gut flora that recycle estrogen. Pharmacokinetic data do not show meaningful reductions in hormone levels and true contraceptive failure is poorly documented.

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

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 additional contraception is routinely required; advise backup if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs.

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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