Drug interactions
Etonogestrel + Secobarbital
Severity: Major
Etonogestrel and Secobarbital: 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
Barbiturates induce CYP3A4 and can reduce progestin concentrations, which may lead to contraceptive failure with etonogestrel implants or vaginal rings. Unintended pregnancy is the main concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Etonogestrel and Secobarbital 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; Secobarbital belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 induction by secobarbital increases the metabolism of etonogestrel.
What to do
Advise an additional or alternative non-hormonal contraceptive method during and for several weeks after secobarbital use. Consider a non-enzyme-dependent method such as a copper IUD or DMPA.
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 Secobarbital
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Secobarbital Contraindicated
- Doravirine + Secobarbital Contraindicated
- Elbasvir / grazoprevir + Secobarbital Contraindicated
- Elvitegravir / cobicistat / emtricitabine / tenofovir df + Secobarbital Contraindicated
- Isavuconazonium + Secobarbital Contraindicated
- Lonafarnib + Secobarbital Contraindicated
Other interactions of Etonogestrel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Etonogestrel with Secobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Etonogestrel and Secobarbital 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. Barbiturates induce CYP3A4 and can reduce progestin concentrations, which may lead to contraceptive failure with etonogestrel implants or vaginal rings. Unintended pregnancy is the main concern.
How serious is the interaction between Etonogestrel and Secobarbital?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise an additional or alternative non-hormonal contraceptive method during and for several weeks after secobarbital use. Consider a non-enzyme-dependent method such as a copper IUD or DMPA.
What other medicines interact with Secobarbital?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Secobarbital with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Doravirine, Elbasvir / grazoprevir. The full list is on the Secobarbital page.
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