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Drug interactions

Diazepam + Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel

Severity: Minor

Diazepam and Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel: 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

Estrogen-containing contraceptives can slow the clearance of diazepam, which may increase sedation and psychomotor impairment. The effect is usually modest.

What this interaction means in plain words

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

Diazepam belongs to Musculoskeletal; Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Estrogens inhibit CYP-mediated oxidative metabolism of diazepam, reducing its clearance.

What to do

Monitor for excess drowsiness and impaired coordination, and lower the diazepam dose if sedation develops.

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 Diazepam with Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel?

MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Diazepam and Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Estrogen-containing contraceptives can slow the clearance of diazepam, which may increase sedation and psychomotor impairment. The effect is usually modest.

How serious is the interaction between Diazepam and Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel?

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 for excess drowsiness and impaired coordination, and lower the diazepam dose if sedation develops.

What other medicines interact with Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel with, for example, Fezolinetant, Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir, Tranexamic acid. The full list is on the Ethinyl estradiol-levonorgestrel page.

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