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