Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Montelukast 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 Montelukast (Montelukast). The combination is generally fine at 4mg, 5mg, 10mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Montelukast 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 Montelukast acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Montelukast affects contraception. Most agents in Leukotriene receptor antagonist have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 4mg, 5mg, 10mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Montelukast, women on hormonal contraception should review Montelukast 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 Montelukast therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Montelukast make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Leukotriene receptor antagonist medications at 4mg, 5mg, 10mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Montelukast states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Montelukast? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Montelukast and the contraceptive method. For most users at 4mg, 5mg, 10mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Montelukast interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Montelukast
More on Montelukast
- With alcoholMontelukast and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Montelukast be taken with food?
- Side effectsMontelukast side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideMontelukast dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Montelukast start working?
- DurationHow long does Montelukast last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.