Loop diuretic
Furosemide 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 Furosemide (Furosemide). The combination is generally fine at 20mg, 40mg, 100mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Furosemide 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 Furosemide acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Furosemide affects contraception. Most agents in Loop diuretic have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 20mg, 40mg, 100mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Furosemide, women on hormonal contraception should review Furosemide 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 Furosemide therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Furosemide make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Loop diuretic medications at 20mg, 40mg, 100mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Furosemide states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Furosemide? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Furosemide and the contraceptive method. For most users at 20mg, 40mg, 100mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Furosemide interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Furosemide
More on Furosemide
- With alcoholFurosemide and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Furosemide be taken with food?
- Side effectsFurosemide side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideFurosemide dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Furosemide start working?
- DurationHow long does Furosemide last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.