Crestor 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 Crestor (Rosuvastatin). The combination is generally fine at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Crestor 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 Rosuvastatin acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Crestor affects contraception. Most agents in Cardiovascular Medications have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Rosuvastatin, women on hormonal contraception should review Crestor 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 Crestor therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Crestor make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Cardiovascular Medications medications at 5mg, 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 Rosuvastatin states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Crestor? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Crestor and the contraceptive method. For most users at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Rosuvastatin interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Crestor
- With alcoholCrestor and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Crestor be taken with food?
- Side effectsCrestor side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideCrestor dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Crestor start working?
- DurationHow long does Crestor last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.