Does Norethindrone And Ethinyl Estradiol Interact with Isotretinoin?
Norethindrone And Ethinyl Estradiol and Isotretinoin have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Study showed isotretinoin did not induce clinically relevant pharmacokinetic changes; however, effectiveness as contraception may vary and dual contraception is required. The mechanism involves no significant pharmacokinetic interaction demonstrated, but contraceptive efficacy may be reduced. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Norethindrone And Ethinyl Estradiol Class
- Estrogen
- Isotretinoin Class
- Retinoid
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Norethindrone And Ethinyl Estradiol and Isotretinoin occurs because no significant pharmacokinetic interaction demonstrated, but contraceptive efficacy may be reduced. Clinically, this means study showed isotretinoin did not induce clinically relevant pharmacokinetic changes; however, effectiveness as contraception may vary and dual contraception is required. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Norethindrone And Ethinyl Estradiol and your doctor is considering prescribing Isotretinoin (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider