Avodart 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 Avodart (Dutasteride). The combination is generally fine at 0.5mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Avodart 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 Dutasteride acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Avodart affects contraception. Most agents in Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 0.5mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Dutasteride, women on hormonal contraception should review Avodart 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 Avodart therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Avodart make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss medications at 0.5mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Dutasteride states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Avodart? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Avodart and the contraceptive method. For most users at 0.5mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Dutasteride interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Avodart
- With alcoholAvodart and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Avodart be taken with food?
- Side effectsAvodart side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAvodart dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Avodart start working?
- DurationHow long does Avodart last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.