Atypical antidepressant / serotonin modulator
Trazodone 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 Trazodone (Trazodone). The combination is generally fine at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Trazodone 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 Trazodone acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Trazodone affects contraception. Most agents in Atypical antidepressant / serotonin modulator have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Trazodone, women on hormonal contraception should review Trazodone 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 Trazodone therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Trazodone make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Atypical antidepressant / serotonin modulator medications at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Trazodone states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Trazodone? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Trazodone and the contraceptive method. For most users at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Trazodone interacts with hormonal contraception.
Products containing Trazodone
More on Trazodone
- With alcoholTrazodone and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Trazodone be taken with food?
- Side effectsTrazodone side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideTrazodone dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Trazodone start working?
- DurationHow long does Trazodone last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.