Trulicity 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 Trulicity (Dulaglutide). The combination is generally fine at 0.75mg, 1.5mg, 3mg, 4.5mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Trulicity 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 Dulaglutide acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Trulicity affects contraception. Most agents in Diabetes Treatment have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 0.75mg, 1.5mg, 3mg, 4.5mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Dulaglutide, women on hormonal contraception should review Trulicity 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 Trulicity therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Trulicity make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Diabetes Treatment medications at 0.75mg, 1.5mg, 3mg, 4.5mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Dulaglutide states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Trulicity? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Trulicity and the contraceptive method. For most users at 0.75mg, 1.5mg, 3mg, 4.5mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Dulaglutide interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Trulicity
- With alcoholTrulicity and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Trulicity be taken with food?
- Side effectsTrulicity side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideTrulicity dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Trulicity start working?
- DurationHow long does Trulicity last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.