Health chronicle: Rifampin

Dr. Lara Bilodeau Pulmonologist

Quebec University Institute of Cardiology and Pulmonology (Laval Hospital)

Quebec (Quebec) Canada

RIFAMPIN

Q: Is it true that rifampin (antibiotic) neutralizes the effects of birth control pills? To your knowledge, are there other antibiotics on the market that could cause the same type of side effects?

R : It is true that rifampin may slightly decrease the effect of oral contraceptives. It is the only antibiotic for which an interaction with oral contraceptives has been reported. It is strongly recommended that additional contraceptives (such as condoms) be used while taking rifampin and for up to four weeks after stopping rifampin. In the case of treatment with rifampin for several weeks or months, the additional contraceptive method should be used up to eight weeks after stopping the antibiotic. Depo-Provera and the IUD do not interact with rifampin.
Taking other antibiotics does not seem to affect the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. However, if the antibiotic causes vomiting or diarrhea, oral contraceptives may not be well absorbed. In this case, it is prudent to use an additional contraceptive method.

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