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Drug interactions

Oxcarbazepine + Ulipristal

Severity: Major

Oxcarbazepine and Ulipristal: major 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 metabolized by CYP3A4, and inducers reduce its levels, which may make emergency contraception less effective. Oxcarbazepine is a recognized enzyme inducer that also reduces hormonal contraceptive effectiveness.

What this interaction means in plain words

Oxcarbazepine and Ulipristal 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Oxcarbazepine induces CYP3A4, accelerating ulipristal metabolism.

What to do

Avoid ulipristal in patients taking oxcarbazepine; use a copper intrauterine device as emergency contraception instead.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Oxcarbazepine with Ulipristal?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Oxcarbazepine and Ulipristal 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. Ulipristal is metabolized by CYP3A4, and inducers reduce its levels, which may make emergency contraception less effective. Oxcarbazepine is a recognized enzyme inducer that also reduces hormonal contraceptive effectiveness.

How serious is the interaction between Oxcarbazepine and Ulipristal?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid ulipristal in patients taking oxcarbazepine; use a copper intrauterine device as emergency contraception instead.

What other medicines interact with Oxcarbazepine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Oxcarbazepine with, for example, Cabotegravir, Rilpivirine, Artemether / lumefantrine. The full list is on the Oxcarbazepine page.

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