Azapirone anxiolytic
Buspirone 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 Buspirone (Buspirone). The combination is generally fine at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Buspirone 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 Buspirone acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Buspirone affects contraception. Most agents in Azapirone anxiolytic have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Buspirone, women on hormonal contraception should review Buspirone 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 Buspirone therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Buspirone make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Azapirone anxiolytic medications at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Buspirone states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Buspirone? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Buspirone and the contraceptive method. For most users at 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 30mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Buspirone interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Buspirone
More on Buspirone
- With alcoholBuspirone and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Buspirone be taken with food?
- Side effectsBuspirone side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideBuspirone dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Buspirone start working?
- DurationHow long does Buspirone last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.