PDE5 inhibitor
Sildenafil Citrate 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 Sildenafil Citrate (Sildenafil Citrate). The combination is generally fine at 100mg, 50mg, 25mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Sildenafil Citrate 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 Sildenafil Citrate acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Sildenafil Citrate affects contraception. Most agents in PDE5 inhibitor have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 100mg, 50mg, 25mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Sildenafil Citrate, women on hormonal contraception should review Sildenafil Citrate 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 Sildenafil Citrate therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Sildenafil Citrate make my pill less effective? ▾
Most PDE5 inhibitor medications at 100mg, 50mg, 25mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Sildenafil Citrate states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Sildenafil Citrate? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Sildenafil Citrate and the contraceptive method. For most users at 100mg, 50mg, 25mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Sildenafil Citrate interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Sildenafil Citrate
More on Sildenafil Citrate
- With alcoholSildenafil Citrate and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Sildenafil Citrate be taken with food?
- Side effectsSildenafil Citrate side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideSildenafil Citrate dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Sildenafil Citrate start working?
- DurationHow long does Sildenafil Citrate last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.