Drug interactions
Etonogestrel + Lamotrigine
Severity: Minor
Etonogestrel and Lamotrigine: 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
The lamotrigine-lowering effect is mainly due to the estrogen component of combined contraceptives. Etonogestrel alone (implant) has not been shown to substantially alter lamotrigine concentrations, although a vaginal ring also contains ethinylestradiol.
What this interaction means in plain words
Etonogestrel and Lamotrigine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Etonogestrel belongs to Endocrine; Lamotrigine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Estrogen-induced glucuronidation lowers lamotrigine; progestin-only effect is minimal.
What to do
With the combined vaginal ring, monitor seizure control and adjust lamotrigine as for other estrogen contraceptives. With the implant, no routine adjustment is needed.
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 Lamotrigine
Other interactions of Etonogestrel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Etonogestrel with Lamotrigine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Etonogestrel and Lamotrigine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. The lamotrigine-lowering effect is mainly due to the estrogen component of combined contraceptives. Etonogestrel alone (implant) has not been shown to substantially alter lamotrigine concentrations, although a vaginal ring also contains ethinylestradiol.
How serious is the interaction between Etonogestrel and Lamotrigine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: With the combined vaginal ring, monitor seizure control and adjust lamotrigine as for other estrogen contraceptives. With the implant, no routine adjustment is needed.
What other medicines interact with Lamotrigine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Lamotrigine with, for example, Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol, Divalproex, Dofetilide. The full list is on the Lamotrigine page.
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