Drug interactions
Etonogestrel + Lumacaftor / ivacaftor
Severity: Major
Etonogestrel and Lumacaftor / ivacaftor: 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
Lumacaftor is a CYP3A inducer and may lower hormonal contraceptive exposure, so etonogestrel contraception may be less reliable. Menstrual irregularities and breakthrough bleeding may also be more frequent.
What this interaction means in plain words
Etonogestrel and Lumacaftor / ivacaftor 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.
Why it happens
Lumacaftor induces CYP3A, increasing the metabolism of etonogestrel and lowering its concentrations.
What to do
Do not rely on hormonal contraception alone; use a non-hormonal method such as a copper IUD or add consistent barrier contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping.
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 Etonogestrel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Etonogestrel with Lumacaftor / ivacaftor?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Etonogestrel and Lumacaftor / ivacaftor 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. Lumacaftor is a CYP3A inducer and may lower hormonal contraceptive exposure, so etonogestrel contraception may be less reliable. Menstrual irregularities and breakthrough bleeding may also be more frequent.
How serious is the interaction between Etonogestrel and Lumacaftor / ivacaftor?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not rely on hormonal contraception alone; use a non-hormonal method such as a copper IUD or add consistent barrier contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping.
What other medicines interact with Etonogestrel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Etonogestrel with, for example, Amobarbital, Armodafinil, Bosentan. The full list is on the Etonogestrel page.
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