HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
Rosuvastatin 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 Rosuvastatin (Rosuvastatin). The combination is generally fine at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Rosuvastatin 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 Rosuvastatin acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Rosuvastatin affects contraception. Most agents in HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Rosuvastatin, women on hormonal contraception should review Rosuvastatin 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 Rosuvastatin therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Rosuvastatin make my pill less effective? ▾
Most HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) medications at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Rosuvastatin states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Rosuvastatin? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Rosuvastatin and the contraceptive method. For most users at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Rosuvastatin interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Rosuvastatin
More on Rosuvastatin
- With alcoholRosuvastatin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Rosuvastatin be taken with food?
- Side effectsRosuvastatin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideRosuvastatin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Rosuvastatin start working?
- DurationHow long does Rosuvastatin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.