Progestogen with anti-mineralocorticoid and anti-androgen activity
Drospirenone 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 Drospirenone (Drospirenone). The combination is generally fine at 3mg / 0.03mg, 3mg/0.02mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Drospirenone 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 Drospirenone acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Drospirenone affects contraception. Most agents in Progestogen with anti-mineralocorticoid and anti-androgen activity have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 3mg / 0.03mg, 3mg/0.02mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Drospirenone, women on hormonal contraception should review Drospirenone 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 Drospirenone therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Drospirenone make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Progestogen with anti-mineralocorticoid and anti-androgen activity medications at 3mg / 0.03mg, 3mg/0.02mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Drospirenone states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Drospirenone? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Drospirenone and the contraceptive method. For most users at 3mg / 0.03mg, 3mg/0.02mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Drospirenone interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Drospirenone
More on Drospirenone
- With alcoholDrospirenone and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Drospirenone be taken with food?
- Side effectsDrospirenone side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideDrospirenone dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Drospirenone start working?
- DurationHow long does Drospirenone last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.