Celexa 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 Celexa (Citalopram). The combination is generally fine at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Celexa 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 Citalopram acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Celexa affects contraception. Most agents in Anti-Depressants have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Citalopram, women on hormonal contraception should review Celexa 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 Celexa therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Celexa make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Anti-Depressants medications at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Citalopram states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Celexa? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Celexa and the contraceptive method. For most users at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Citalopram interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Celexa
- With alcoholCelexa and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Celexa be taken with food?
- Side effectsCelexa side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideCelexa dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Celexa start working?
- DurationHow long does Celexa last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.