Drug interactions
Etonogestrel + Rifabutin
Severity: Major
Etonogestrel and Rifabutin: 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
Rifabutin may lower etonogestrel concentrations from the implant or vaginal ring, potentially reducing contraceptive effectiveness. Unintended pregnancy is the main concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Etonogestrel and Rifabutin 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.
Etonogestrel belongs to Endocrine; Rifabutin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4, increasing etonogestrel metabolism.
What to do
Use an alternative such as a copper IUD, levonorgestrel IUD or DMPA, or add condoms during rifabutin therapy and for 4 weeks after stopping. Do not rely on the implant alone.
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
Other interactions of Rifabutin
- Cabotegravir + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Lorlatinib + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Rifabutin + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Apixaban + Rifabutin Major
- Axitinib + Rifabutin Major
- Brexpiprazole + Rifabutin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Etonogestrel with Rifabutin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Etonogestrel and Rifabutin 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. Rifabutin may lower etonogestrel concentrations from the implant or vaginal ring, potentially reducing contraceptive effectiveness. Unintended pregnancy is the main concern.
How serious is the interaction between Etonogestrel and Rifabutin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative such as a copper IUD, levonorgestrel IUD or DMPA, or add condoms during rifabutin therapy and for 4 weeks after stopping. Do not rely on the implant alone.
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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