Does Effexor affect Nexplanon? (3+ management tips)
By
Dr Kirti Hira PhD
| Reviewed by
Ivan Kahwa
The contents of this article are fact-based except otherwise stated within the article.
Author bio
Dr Kirti Hira is a medical writer with expertise in Pharmacology and conducting systematic literature reviews (SLR). She writes and reviews content on pharmaceutical drugs.
Dr Kirti Hira’s Highlights:
- Associate consultant at IQVIA, India
- PhD in Pharmacy with a focus on the Discovery of Pro-inflammatory cytokine inhibitors from bacterial strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad campus, India
- Master’s in Pharmacology with a focus on the development of a new acute pancreatitis model at the NIPER, Mohali, India
Professional Experience:
Dr Kirti Hira joined IQVIA, India as soon as she completed her doctoral degree.
Dr Kirti Hira was involved in performing a systematic literature search and gap analysis to support the development of a clinical evaluation report (CER) and performance evaluation report (PER) as per EU MDR (European Medical Device Regulations) and/or EU IVDR (European In-Vitro Device Regulations).
In addition to this, she has also supported the development of a literature search strategy, reviewed and appraised the literature critically, and prepared systematic literature review (SLR) reports to identify the potential risks, safety trends, and off-label uses to ensure that the medical device safety profile is aligned with safety and marketing claims.
Dr Kirti Hira has contributed to screening, analyzing, and reviewing the published literature and clinical investigation results to evaluate the safety and performance of medical devices and pharmaceutical drugs.
Education:
- 2014 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (DIPSAR), New Delhi, India
- 2016 Master of Science, Pharmacology at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali, India
- 2021 PhD in Pharmacy at BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad campus, India
The main Publications of Dr Kirti Hira are:
Articles:
- Hira, K., Sharma, P., Mahale, A., Kulkarni, O. P., & Begum, A. S. (2022). Cyclo (Val-Pro) and Cyclo (Leu-Hydroxy-Pro) from Pseudomonas sp.(ABS-36) alleviates acute and chronic renal injury under in vitro and in vivo models (Ischemic reperfusion and unilateral ureter obstruction). International Immunopharmacology, 103, 108494.
- Hira, K., Shaik, A., Kumar, S., & Ahil, S. B. (2017). Pseudomonas Potential Source for Drug Lead Discovery. Current Trends in Biomedical Engineering & Biosciences, 5(5), 108-111.
- Ahil, S. B., Hira, K., Shaik, A. B., Pal, P. P., Kulkarni, O. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2019). L-Proline-based-cyclic dipeptides from Pseudomonas sp.(ABS-36) inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and alleviates crystal-induced renal injury in mice. International Immunopharmacology, 73, 395-404.
- Kumar, S. S., Hira, K., Begum Ahil, S., Kulkarni, O. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2020). New synthetic coumarinolignans as attenuators of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced sepsis and carrageenan-induced paw oedema models. Inflammopharmacology, 28, 1365-1373.
- Begum, S. A., Hira, K., Pal, P. P., Nessa, S., Kulkarni, O. P., Danaraj, J., … & Fujimoto, Y. (2021). Halodule pinifolia (Seagrass) attenuated lipopolysaccharide-, carrageenan-, and crystal-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines: mechanism and chemistry. Inflammopharmacology, 29, 253-267.
- Kumar, S. S., Begum, A. S., Hira, K., Niazi, S., Kumar, B. P., Araya, H., & Fujimoto, Y. (2019). Structure-based design and synthesis of new 4-methyl coumarin-based lignans as pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) inhibitors. Bioorganic Chemistry, 89, 102991.
- Begum, A. S., Kumar, S. S., Gottapu, S., & Hira, K. (2018). O-Glucoside of natural cleomiscosin-A: An attenuator of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Phytochemistry Letters, 26, 83-87.
- Sanjana, P., Kirti, H., & Begum, A. S. (2016). Medical devices and their approval procedure in India. International Journal of Drug Regulatory Affairs, 4(3), 19-29.
Book Chapter:
- Hira, K., & Sajeli Begum, A. (2021). Methods for evaluation of TNF-α inhibition effect. The TNF Superfamily: Methods and Protocols, 271-279.
Conference papers:
- Cyclo (Val-Pro) attenuates renal injury by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines in mice renal ischemic model. Cytokines 2019- International Cytokines and Interferon Society, Vienna, Austria. Oct 20-23,2019.
- Natural Diketopiperazines as TNF-α and IL-6 inhibitors. Pharmacology 2018 British Pharmacological Society, London, UK. Dec 18 – 20, 2018.
- HDAC5/KLF2 axis regulates NLRP3-mediated renal inflammation and fibrosis associated with nephrocalcinosis-related chronic kidney disease. Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 35(Supplement_3), 2020
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha inhibitory activity of H.pinifolia. 24th ISCB International Conference, Manipal University, India. 11-13th Jan 2018.
- Bioactive cyclic dipeptides of microbial origin in discovery of cytokine inhibitors. International Conference on Drug Development Technology (Dubai), Oct 16-17, 2017, 19(10) Part VIII, 888.
- MTT assay-guided isolation of a cytotoxic lead from Hedyotic umbellate and its mechanism of action against non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells. International Conference on Drug Development Technology (Dubai), Oct 16-17, 2017, 19(10) Part VIII, 891.
- Screening of phyto-compounds to identify cytotoxic lead molecules against A549, MDA- MB and HT-29 cell lines and their isolation methods. 68th Indian Pharmaceutical Congress, 2016, Dec 16-18, Visakhapatnam.
You can view Dr Kirti’s work below and links to her professional profiles.
Research Gate:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kirti-Hira
LinkedIn:https://in.linkedin.com/pub/kirti-hira/a3/975/549
Google Scholar:https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=hlbrGn4AAAAJ&hl=en
Reviewer bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this brief article, we will discuss if Effexor affects Nexplanon. How does Effexor interact with Nexplanon? What are the potential side effects of taking Effexor and Nexplanon together? Further, we will discuss the tips to ensure the safe use of Effexor and Nexplanon together and what precautions need to be taken with Nexplanon.
Does Effexor affect Nexplanon?
No, Effexor does not affect Nexplanon efficacy. Nexplanon (Etonogestrel) is a progesterone-based contraceptive implant that prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation (1).
It is generally safe to take antidepressants alongside contraceptive medications. There are no reported incidents of antidepressants affecting the efficacy of birth control drugs` nor there has been any significant evidence of serious adverse effects.
However, data for the concomitant use of the two drugs is limited and further research is required to establish the safety profile.
What does research suggest?
Clinical studies suggest no potential interaction between the two drugs that could impact the efficacy or safety of either of the drugs. No unintentional pregnancy was reported by concomitant use of antidepressants and contraceptive medications (2).
There is a report suggesting reduced fertility with antidepressants. However, this can be the result of depression itself and further research is needed to establish this link (3).
How does Effexor interact with Nexplanon?
No interactions have been reported for using antidepressants with birth control medication. As research data for such studies is limited, the possibility of interaction can not be ruled out. Effexor and Nexplanon have few common adverse effects and using them together can increase the risk of these adverse effects.
What are the possible side effects of taking Effexor with Nexplanon?
Adverse effects associated with Effexor include dizziness, nausea, insomnia, vertigo, loss of appetite, reduced sexual activity, diarrhoea and constipation, tremors, dry mouth and pain in the stomach.
Nexplanon implant may cause headaches, nausea, cramps, mood swings, breast tenderness and irregular periods (1).
Although, taking two drugs together does not affect the potency of either drug, side effects may occur from individual drug effects. Interaction between two drugs could result in below listed side effects:
- Severe headaches
- Increased pain at the implant site
- Depressed mood, increased suicidal tendencies, menstrual irregularities and breast tenderness.
Therefore, it is recommended to be cautious while taking two drugs together and immediately contact your physician, if you experience any of these side effects.
How to ensure the safe use of Effexor and Nexplanon together?
The following management tips are recommended if you are taking Effexor and Nexplanon concomitantly:
Do not hide anything from your healthcare profession
Before taking any medication, inform the doctor about your contraceptive implant, so that they can guide you in the best possible way about the treatment alternatives and expected side effects with the medication.
Appearance of adverse effects
If you experience severe and persistent adverse effects, it is best to consult your healthcare provider for dose adjustment or some alternative medication as the effect may vary from person to person.
Do not abruptly stop the medication
If you notice any adverse reaction, do not stop Effexor abruptly without physician consultation as it could lead to life-threatening withdrawal syndrome.
If your contraceptive fails
In case your contraceptive fails and you get pregnant, immediately contact your doctor as medication may affect the health of your baby.
What precautions you should take while taking Nexplanon?
- You should avoid Nexplanon if you think you may be pregnant.
- If you have breast cancer or any other progestin-sensitive cancer, you should not take Nexplanon and consult your doctor for other alternative birth control methods.
- Nexplanon should be avoided if you have or have had any blood clots.
- The doctor may suggest alternative contraceptives if you have any of these conditions like high blood pressure, Kidney problems, Gall bladder problems, diabetes, depression, high cholesterol and high triglycerides.
What medications you should avoid while taking Nexplanon?
Medications that can affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptive implants include:
- Antibiotics such as Rifabutin and Rifampicin
- Antiepileptic drugs such as Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Primidone
- Antituberculosis agents
- Drugs used for the treatment of HIV
Conclusion
In my opinion and based on the research data, Effexor does not affect the birth-control efficacy of Nexplanon and also, no adverse effects have been reported by the concomitant use of both drugs. Side effects may occur as a result of individual drug effects.
Make sure you immediately seek professional advice in case of the appearance of any adverse event or if your contraceptive fails, to avoid any risk to your fetal health.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
National Health Service. Contraceptive implant. [updated 2021 Mar 09]. In: NHS [Internet]. London (UK): NHS; [cited 2023 Nov 06]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-implant/
2.-
Berry-Bibee EN, Kim MJ, Simmons KB, Tepper NK, Riley HE, Pagano HP, Curtis KM. Drug interactions between hormonal contraceptives and psychotropic drugs: a systematic review. Contraception. 2016 Dec;94(6):650-667. doi: 10.1016/j.contraception.2016.07.011. Epub 2016 Jul 18. PMID: 27444984.. Avaliable from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27444984/
3.-
Casilla-Lennon MM, Meltzer-Brody S, Steiner AZ. The effect of antidepressants on fertility. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016 Sep;215(3):314.e1-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.01.170. Epub 2016 Jan 28. PMID: 26827878; PMCID: PMC4965341. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4965341/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
