DPP-4 inhibitor
Sitagliptin 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 Sitagliptin (Sitagliptin). The combination is generally fine at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Sitagliptin 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 Sitagliptin acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Sitagliptin affects contraception. Most agents in DPP-4 inhibitor have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Sitagliptin, women on hormonal contraception should review Sitagliptin 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 Sitagliptin therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Sitagliptin make my pill less effective? ▾
Most DPP-4 inhibitor medications at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Sitagliptin states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Sitagliptin? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Sitagliptin and the contraceptive method. For most users at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Sitagliptin interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Sitagliptin
More on Sitagliptin
- With alcoholSitagliptin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Sitagliptin be taken with food?
- Side effectsSitagliptin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideSitagliptin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Sitagliptin start working?
- DurationHow long does Sitagliptin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.