Does trazodone affect birth control? (6+ safety measures)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author 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 article, we will discuss whether trazodone affects birth control, what research suggests, what factors can contribute to trazodone affecting birth control, what to do if trazodone affects birth control, and how to ensure the safe use of birth control.
Does trazodone affect birth control?
No, trazodone does not affect birth control. There is no clear evidence suggesting that trazodone has any effect on birth control methods. Trazodone is an antidepressant that belongs to the serotonin-antagonist reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It is mainly prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorders, anxiety and insomnia. (1)
Whereas birth control methods are designed to avoid pregnancy. This can be done by physical blocking of the passage or hormonal imbalance, which alters the menstrual cycle and prevents pregnancy. Birth controls involve oral contraceptive pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), vaginal contraceptives, etc. (2)
Trazodone affects serotonin levels in the brain and does not interfere with contraceptives in any way.
What does research suggest?
Studies on the investigation of the potential interaction between trazodone and birth control are limited, and findings are inconclusive. It is important to stay vigilant when taking birth control and trazodone together to avoid any unwanted consequences.
One research study indicates that trazodone has no known impact on the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, and there is no data on the efficacy of non-oral hormonal contraceptives, such as patches or IUDs. (3)
However, it is crucial to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and more research is needed to establish a definitive conclusion.
What factors can affect birth control while taking Trazodone?
Various factors can contribute to the potential interaction between trazodone and birth control.
- Other medications: Use of birth control and trazodone while taking other medications can cause additional interactions and affect birth control.
- Underlying health issues: Underlying health conditions that affect the liver and metabolism may impact birth control. The CYP3A4 enzyme in the liver metabolises trazodone and oral contraceptives. Changes in this enzyme’s activity can affect the metabolism of both trazodone and birth control hormones, potentially influencing their effectiveness.
- Individual differences: Individual metabolism and genetics may contribute to the variability in how trazodone interacts with birth control.
If you experience any unwanted symptoms, do not stop taking trazodone or your birth control on your own. Contact your healthcare provider for better management of the symptoms.
What to do if trazodone affects birth control?
If you are taking trazodone along with birth control and suspect an interaction, it is essential that you consult with your healthcare provider promptly.
- Do not make any adjustments to your medications without consulting your doctor.
- Your healthcare provider will assess your health profile, medication history, and any potential risk factors affecting your birth control.
- Your healthcare provider might consider lowering the dose, as there are no known interactions between trazodone and contraceptives.
- If your healthcare provider thinks that trazodone is disrupting your hormonal balance, he may consider other antidepressants or determine the most appropriate course of action for you.
How to ensure safe use of birth control while taking trazodone?
To ensure the safe use of birth control while taking trazodone, consider the following:
- Open communication: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and supplements to help them make informed decisions about your health.
- Timing of medication: Ensure that you take birth control at the same time every day to increase its efficacy. Avoid taking trazodone and birth control at the same time to avoid any interaction.
- Storage: Do not store birth control pills in a hot and humid environment to avoid degradation of the pills.
- Regular check-ups: Schedule check-ups to monitor your overall health, as this allows healthcare providers to identify any issues promptly.
- Stay consistent: Do not miss a dose of your birth control. Set an alarm if you have to to avoid any complications.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking while on birth control can be very dangerous, so avoid it at all costs. (4)
- Alternative contraceptive methods: If concerns persist, discuss alternative contraceptive methods that may not be affected by trazodone.
In my opinion, the impact of trazodone on birth control is not entirely clear, so it is essential for individuals taking both medications to stay vigilant and communicate openly with their healthcare providers.
Further research is needed to establish conclusive evidence on this interaction. In the meantime, proactive discussions with healthcare professionals can help individuals make informed decisions about their mental health and contraceptive needs.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Shin JJ, Saadabadi A. Trazodone. [Updated 2022 Jul 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470560/
2.-
Hatcher RA, Kowal D. Birth Control. In: Walker HK, Hall WD, Hurst JW, editors. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition. Boston: Butterworths; 1990. Chapter 174. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK283/
3.-
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. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27444984/
4.-
Cooper DB, Patel P, Mahdy H. Oral Contraceptive Pills. [Updated 2022 Nov 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
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