Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Ciprofloxacin 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 Ciprofloxacin (Ciprofloxacin). The combination is generally fine at 250mg, 500mg, 750mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Ciprofloxacin 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 Ciprofloxacin acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Ciprofloxacin affects contraception. Most agents in Fluoroquinolone antibiotic have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 250mg, 500mg, 750mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Ciprofloxacin, women on hormonal contraception should review Ciprofloxacin 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 Ciprofloxacin therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Ciprofloxacin make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Fluoroquinolone antibiotic medications at 250mg, 500mg, 750mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Ciprofloxacin states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Ciprofloxacin? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Ciprofloxacin and the contraceptive method. For most users at 250mg, 500mg, 750mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Ciprofloxacin interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Ciprofloxacin
More on Ciprofloxacin
- With alcoholCiprofloxacin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Ciprofloxacin be taken with food?
- Side effectsCiprofloxacin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideCiprofloxacin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Ciprofloxacin start working?
- DurationHow long does Ciprofloxacin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.