Yaz with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Yaz (Drospirenone/Ethinylestradiol). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Drospirenone at 3mg/0.02mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Hormones and Birth Control agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Drospirenone at 3mg/0.02mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Drospirenone, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Yaz is co-administered. Adjusted 3mg/0.02mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Yaz during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Drospirenone is metabolised and may need a temporary 3mg/0.02mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Yaz regimen.
Will antibiotics make Yaz stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Yaz efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Drospirenone levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Yaz
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