Buspar 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 Buspar (Buspirone). The combination is generally fine at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Buspar 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 Buspirone acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Buspar affects contraception. Most agents in Anti-anxiety Medications have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Buspirone, women on hormonal contraception should review Buspar 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 Buspar therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Buspar make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Anti-anxiety Medications medications at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Buspirone states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Buspar? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Buspar and the contraceptive method. For most users at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Buspirone interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Buspar
- With alcoholBuspar and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Buspar be taken with food?
- Side effectsBuspar side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideBuspar dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Buspar start working?
- DurationHow long does Buspar last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.