Short-acting SSRI (premature ejaculation)
Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine (Dapoxetine). The combination is generally fine at 30mg, 60mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Dapoxetine affects contraception. Most agents in Short-acting SSRI (premature ejaculation) have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 30mg, 60mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Dapoxetine, women on hormonal contraception should review Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Dapoxetine make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Short-acting SSRI (premature ejaculation) medications at 30mg, 60mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Dapoxetine states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Dapoxetine? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Dapoxetine and the contraceptive method. For most users at 30mg, 60mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Dapoxetine interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Dapoxetine
More on Dapoxetine
- With alcoholDapoxetine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Dapoxetine be taken with food?
- Side effectsDapoxetine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideDapoxetine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Dapoxetine start working?
- DurationHow long does Dapoxetine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.