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