Drug interactions
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Phenobarbital
Severity: Major
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Phenobarbital: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Phenobarbital is a well-known enzyme inducer that lowers contraceptive steroid levels. Contraceptive failure and unintended pregnancy have been reported with enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Phenobarbital 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.
Why it happens
Induction of CYP3A4 and other hepatic enzymes increases clearance of ethinyl estradiol and the progestin.
What to do
Avoid combined pills; use a copper IUD, levonorgestrel IUS or injectable DMPA, and continue the alternative for several weeks after stopping.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Phenobarbital 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. Phenobarbital is a well-known enzyme inducer that lowers contraceptive steroid levels. Contraceptive failure and unintended pregnancy have been reported with enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants.
How serious is the interaction between Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combined pills; use a copper IUD, levonorgestrel IUS or injectable DMPA, and continue the alternative for several weeks after stopping.
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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