Drug interactions
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol + Ritonavir
Severity: Major
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Ritonavir: 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
Ritonavir has been shown to lower ethinyl estradiol exposure, which can reduce contraceptive reliability. Effects on the progestin component vary.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Ritonavir 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; Ritonavir belongs to Anti Virals.
Why it happens
Induction of glucuronidation and oxidative metabolism of ethinyl estradiol by ritonavir despite CYP3A inhibition.
What to do
Use an alternative non-hormonal contraceptive such as a copper IUD or condoms instead of relying on the combined pill.
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 Ritonavir
- Alfuzosin + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Colchicine + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Ritonavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with Ritonavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Ritonavir 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. Ritonavir has been shown to lower ethinyl estradiol exposure, which can reduce contraceptive reliability. Effects on the progestin component vary.
How serious is the interaction between Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol and Ritonavir?
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 an alternative non-hormonal contraceptive such as a copper IUD or condoms instead of relying on the combined pill.
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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