Drug interactions
Griseofulvin + Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate
Severity: Major
Griseofulvin and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate: 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
Griseofulvin is associated with breakthrough bleeding and contraceptive failure with combined oral contraceptives. Reduced hormone exposure may allow ovulation and unintended pregnancy. Griseofulvin is also teratogenic, which makes pregnancy prevention especially important.
What this interaction means in plain words
Griseofulvin and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate 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
Enzyme induction by griseofulvin is thought to increase the metabolism of ethinylestradiol and progestin, lowering hormone levels.
What to do
Advise a reliable non-hormonal or additional barrier method during griseofulvin therapy and for at least 28 days afterward. Consider a non-hormonal contraceptive alternative.
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 Griseofulvin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Griseofulvin with Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Griseofulvin and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate 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. Griseofulvin is associated with breakthrough bleeding and contraceptive failure with combined oral contraceptives. Reduced hormone exposure may allow ovulation and unintended pregnancy. Griseofulvin is also teratogenic, which makes pregnancy prevention especially important.
How serious is the interaction between Griseofulvin and Levonorgestrel oral / ethinylestradiol / ferrous bisglycinate?
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 a reliable non-hormonal or additional barrier method during griseofulvin therapy and for at least 28 days afterward. Consider a non-hormonal contraceptive alternative.
What other medicines interact with Griseofulvin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Griseofulvin with, for example, Cyclosporine, Cyclosporin, Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol. The full list is on the Griseofulvin page.
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