Inhaled corticosteroid
Budesonide 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 Budesonide (Budesonide). The combination is generally fine at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Budesonide 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 Budesonide acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Budesonide affects contraception. Most agents in Inhaled corticosteroid have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Budesonide, women on hormonal contraception should review Budesonide 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 Budesonide therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Budesonide make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Inhaled corticosteroid medications at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Budesonide states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Budesonide? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Budesonide and the contraceptive method. For most users at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Budesonide interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Budesonide
More on Budesonide
- With alcoholBudesonide and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Budesonide be taken with food?
- Side effectsBudesonide side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideBudesonide dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Budesonide start working?
- DurationHow long does Budesonide last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.