Drug interactions
Norgestrel + Ulipristal acetate
Severity: Moderate
Norgestrel and Ulipristal acetate: moderate 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
Ulipristal is a progesterone receptor modulator, and progestins such as norgestrel may reduce its emergency contraceptive effect. Conversely, ulipristal may reduce the effect of hormonal contraception if started immediately after use. Contraceptive efficacy may therefore be reduced.
What this interaction means in plain words
Norgestrel and Ulipristal acetate can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Norgestrel belongs to Endocrine; Ulipristal acetate belongs to Endocrine.
Why it happens
Competition at the progesterone receptor between the antagonist/modulator ulipristal and the progestin.
What to do
After ulipristal, delay starting or resuming hormonal contraception for about 5 days and use barrier contraception until then and through the following week.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Norgestrel
- Amobarbital + Norgestrel Major
- Apalutamide + Norgestrel Major
- Bosentan + Norgestrel Major
- Carbamazepine + Norgestrel Major
- Efavirenz + Norgestrel Major
- Enzalutamide + Norgestrel Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Norgestrel with Ulipristal acetate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Norgestrel and Ulipristal acetate can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Ulipristal is a progesterone receptor modulator, and progestins such as norgestrel may reduce its emergency contraceptive effect. Conversely, ulipristal may reduce the effect of hormonal contraception if started immediately after use. Contraceptive efficacy may therefore be reduced.
How serious is the interaction between Norgestrel and Ulipristal acetate?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: After ulipristal, delay starting or resuming hormonal contraception for about 5 days and use barrier contraception until then and through the following week.
What other medicines interact with Norgestrel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Norgestrel with, for example, Amobarbital, Apalutamide, Bosentan. The full list is on the Norgestrel page.
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