COX-2 selective NSAID
Celecoxib 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 Celecoxib (Celecoxib). The combination is generally fine at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, 400mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Celecoxib 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 Celecoxib acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Celecoxib affects contraception. Most agents in COX-2 selective NSAID have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, 400mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Celecoxib, women on hormonal contraception should review Celecoxib 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 Celecoxib therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Celecoxib make my pill less effective? ▾
Most COX-2 selective NSAID medications at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, 400mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Celecoxib states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Celecoxib? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Celecoxib and the contraceptive method. For most users at 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, 400mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Celecoxib interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Celecoxib
More on Celecoxib
- With alcoholCelecoxib and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Celecoxib be taken with food?
- Side effectsCelecoxib side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideCelecoxib dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Celecoxib start working?
- DurationHow long does Celecoxib last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.