Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor
Avanafil 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 Avanafil (Avanafil). The combination is generally fine at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Avanafil 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 Avanafil acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Avanafil affects contraception. Most agents in Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Avanafil, women on hormonal contraception should review Avanafil 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 Avanafil therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Avanafil make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor medications at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Avanafil states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Avanafil? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Avanafil and the contraceptive method. For most users at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Avanafil interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Avanafil
More on Avanafil
- With alcoholAvanafil and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Avanafil be taken with food?
- Side effectsAvanafil side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAvanafil dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Avanafil start working?
- DurationHow long does Avanafil last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.