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