Augmentin 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 Augmentin (Amoxicillin/Clavulanate). The combination is generally fine at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Augmentin 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 Amoxicillin, Clavulanate acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Augmentin affects contraception. Most agents in Antibiotics have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Amoxicillin, Clavulanate, women on hormonal contraception should review Augmentin 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 Augmentin therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Augmentin make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Antibiotics medications at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Amoxicillin, Clavulanate states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Augmentin? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Augmentin and the contraceptive method. For most users at 500/125mg, 875/125mg, 1000/62.5mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Amoxicillin, Clavulanate interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Augmentin
- With alcoholAugmentin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Augmentin be taken with food?
- Side effectsAugmentin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAugmentin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Augmentin start working?
- DurationHow long does Augmentin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.