Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Paroxetine 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 Paroxetine (Paroxetine). The combination is generally fine at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Paroxetine 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 Paroxetine acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Paroxetine affects contraception. Most agents in Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Paroxetine, women on hormonal contraception should review Paroxetine 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 Paroxetine therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Paroxetine make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Paroxetine states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Paroxetine? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Paroxetine and the contraceptive method. For most users at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Paroxetine interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Paroxetine
More on Paroxetine
- With alcoholParoxetine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Paroxetine be taken with food?
- Side effectsParoxetine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideParoxetine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Paroxetine start working?
- DurationHow long does Paroxetine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.