Addyi with the birth control pill
Many women of reproductive age take a combined or progestogen-only oral contraceptive while also using a chronic medication such as Addyi (Flibanserin). The combination is generally fine at 100mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Addyi can affect contraceptive efficacy
Combined and progestogen-only contraceptives are metabolised through CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inducers (some antiepileptics, rifampicin, St John's Wort) lower contraceptive plasma levels and reduce efficacy. Whether Flibanserin acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Addyi affects contraception. Most agents in Women's Sexual Health have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 100mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Flibanserin, women on hormonal contraception should review Addyi with the prescribing pharmacist or doctor. Where an interaction is documented, additional barrier contraception or switching to a non-oral method (IUD, implant) for the duration of Addyi therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Addyi make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Women's Sexual Health medications at 100mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Flibanserin states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Addyi? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Addyi and the contraceptive method. For most users at 100mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Flibanserin interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Addyi
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.