Drug interactions
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Rifabutin
Severity: Major
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Rifabutin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: Base de donnees publique des medicaments (France)
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
Rifabutin lowers contraceptive hormone concentrations and may cause breakthrough bleeding and unintended pregnancy. The induction is weaker than with rifampicin but is clinically relevant.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Rifabutin 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; Rifabutin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4, increasing metabolism of ethinyl estradiol and progestins.
What to do
Use a non-hormonal method such as a copper IUD, or a method not affected by enzyme induction. Do not rely on combined oral contraceptives alone.
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 Rifabutin
- Cabotegravir + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Lorlatinib + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Rifabutin + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Apixaban + Rifabutin Major
- Axitinib + Rifabutin Major
- Brexpiprazole + Rifabutin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with Rifabutin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Rifabutin 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. Rifabutin lowers contraceptive hormone concentrations and may cause breakthrough bleeding and unintended pregnancy. The induction is weaker than with rifampicin but is clinically relevant.
How serious is the interaction between Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Rifabutin?
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 non-hormonal method such as a copper IUD, or a method not affected by enzyme induction. Do not rely on combined oral contraceptives alone.
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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