Dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker
Amlodipine 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 Amlodipine (Amlodipine). The combination is generally fine at 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Amlodipine 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 Amlodipine acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Amlodipine affects contraception. Most agents in Dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Amlodipine, women on hormonal contraception should review Amlodipine 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 Amlodipine therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Amlodipine make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker medications at 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Amlodipine states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Amlodipine? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Amlodipine and the contraceptive method. For most users at 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Amlodipine interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Amlodipine
More on Amlodipine
- With alcoholAmlodipine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Amlodipine be taken with food?
- Side effectsAmlodipine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAmlodipine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Amlodipine start working?
- DurationHow long does Amlodipine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.