Triazole antifungal
Fluconazole 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 Fluconazole (Fluconazole). The combination is generally fine at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 200mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Fluconazole 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 Fluconazole acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Fluconazole affects contraception. Most agents in Triazole antifungal have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 200mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Fluconazole, women on hormonal contraception should review Fluconazole 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 Fluconazole therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Fluconazole make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Triazole antifungal medications at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 200mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Fluconazole states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Fluconazole? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Fluconazole and the contraceptive method. For most users at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 200mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Fluconazole interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Fluconazole
More on Fluconazole
- With alcoholFluconazole and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Fluconazole be taken with food?
- Side effectsFluconazole side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideFluconazole dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Fluconazole start working?
- DurationHow long does Fluconazole last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.