Drug interactions
Ethinylestradiol + Nitrofurantoin
Severity: Minor
Ethinylestradiol and Nitrofurantoin: 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
Evidence does not show that nitrofurantoin reduces the efficacy of combined oral contraceptives. Only rifampin-type enzyme inducers have clearly been shown to do so, and any effect from altered gut flora is theoretical.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ethinylestradiol and Nitrofurantoin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
No established mechanism; a theoretical reduction in enterohepatic recycling of ethinylestradiol has not been shown for nitrofurantoin.
What to do
No additional contraception is routinely needed. Advise patients to follow standard guidance if vomiting or 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?
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Other interactions of Nitrofurantoin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ethinylestradiol with Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ethinylestradiol and Nitrofurantoin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Evidence does not show that nitrofurantoin reduces the efficacy of combined oral contraceptives. Only rifampin-type enzyme inducers have clearly been shown to do so, and any effect from altered gut flora is theoretical.
How serious is the interaction between Ethinylestradiol and Nitrofurantoin?
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 needed. Advise patients to follow standard guidance if vomiting or diarrhea occurs.
What other medicines interact with Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Nitrofurantoin with, for example, Pexidartinib, Pretomanid, Aluminum hydroxide. The full list is on the Nitrofurantoin page.
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