Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) antidepressant
Bupropion 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 Bupropion (Bupropion). The combination is generally fine at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Bupropion 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 Bupropion acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Bupropion affects contraception. Most agents in Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) antidepressant have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Bupropion, women on hormonal contraception should review Bupropion 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 Bupropion therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Bupropion make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) antidepressant medications at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Bupropion states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Bupropion? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Bupropion and the contraceptive method. For most users at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Bupropion interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Bupropion
More on Bupropion
- With alcoholBupropion and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Bupropion be taken with food?
- Side effectsBupropion side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideBupropion dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Bupropion start working?
- DurationHow long does Bupropion last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.