Drug interactions
Ethinylestradiol + Ofloxacin
Severity: Minor
Ethinylestradiol and Ofloxacin: 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
Antibiotics are theorized to lower ethinylestradiol levels by altering gut flora, although this is established only for a few agents such as rifampicin through enzyme induction. Ofloxacin has not been shown to reduce contraceptive efficacy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ethinylestradiol and Ofloxacin 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
Theoretical reduction in enterohepatic recirculation of estrogen through altered gut flora; not established for fluoroquinolones.
What to do
No additional contraception is routinely required. Advise backup contraception if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs while on the antibiotic.
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 Ofloxacin
- Ofloxacin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Ofloxacin Major
- Amiodarone + Ofloxacin Major
- Amisulpride + Ofloxacin Major
- Anagrelide + Ofloxacin Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Ofloxacin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ethinylestradiol with Ofloxacin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ethinylestradiol and Ofloxacin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Antibiotics are theorized to lower ethinylestradiol levels by altering gut flora, although this is established only for a few agents such as rifampicin through enzyme induction. Ofloxacin has not been shown to reduce contraceptive efficacy.
How serious is the interaction between Ethinylestradiol and Ofloxacin?
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 required. Advise backup contraception if vomiting or severe diarrhea occurs while on the antibiotic.
What other medicines interact with Ofloxacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ofloxacin with, for example, Thioridazine, Adagrasib, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Ofloxacin page.
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