Jump to: How does Mounjaro affect birth control? | Alternative contraceptive methods | Recommendations for taking Mounjaro with contraception | Take home message
It’s not recommended to take oral birth control with Mounjaro as the weight-loss injection could interfere with the oral contraceptive’s effectiveness.
However, if you’re taking oral birth control pills, you should use additional contraception (like condoms) for at least 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro and 4 weeks after each dose increase, as Mounjaro can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
This interaction occurs because Mounjaro slows down how quickly your stomach empties its contents, affecting how well your body absorbs oral medications, including birth control pills.
You can take Mounjaro with non-oral forms of contraception, such as the contraceptive patch, vaginal ring, or intrauterine device (IUD), which aren’t affected by Mounjaro and might be more suitable options while taking the medication.
How does Mounjaro affect birth control?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) works by slowing down digestion to help control appetite and support weight loss. However, this mechanism can interfere with how effectively your body absorbs oral medications.
This effect is particularly significant when you first start taking Mounjaro and after any dose increases as your body adjusts to the medication’s effects on your digestive system.
The reduced absorption of oral contraceptives could potentially lead to unintended pregnancies if additional precautions aren’t taken, such as using barrier methods of contraception.
Understanding the timing
The interaction between Mounjaro and oral contraceptives is most pronounced during two crucial periods:
1. The first 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro
2. The 4 weeks following each dose increase
During these periods, your body is adjusting to the medication’s effects on your digestive system, which can be particularly unpredictable.
Alternative contraceptive methods
Several contraceptive options aren’t affected by Mounjaro’s impact on medication absorption.
These include:
- Copper or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Contraceptive implants
- Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) injection
- Vaginal ring (NuvaRing)
- Contraceptive patch (Xulane)
These methods bypass the digestive system entirely or use different delivery methods, making them more reliable options while taking Mounjaro.
Recommendations for taking Mounjaro with contraception
If you’re currently using oral contraceptives and planning to start Mounjaro, consider the following:
If continuing oral contraceptives:
Always use a backup barrier method (like condoms) during these periods:
- 4 weeks before starting Mounjaro
- 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro
- 4 weeks after each dose increase
Take your birth control pill and Mounjaro injection at least 1 hour apart to minimise potential interactions.
Consider switching contraception:
Discuss switching to a non-oral form of contraception with your healthcare provider before starting Mounjaro.
Long-acting reversible contraceptives like IUDs or implants can provide reliable protection without concerns about absorption.
Monitor for side effects:
Pay attention to gastrointestinal side effects like vomiting, which could further reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
If you experience vomiting within 2 hours of taking your birth control pill, treat it as a missed dose and follow your contraceptive’s missed dose guidelines.
Take home message
While you can take birth control with Mounjaro, it’s crucial to understand the potential interactions and take appropriate precautions, particularly with oral contraceptives.
Consider switching to non-oral contraceptive methods for more reliable protection while taking Mounjaro, or ensure you’re using backup contraception during critical periods if continuing with oral contraceptives.
We’d recommend discussing your contraceptive options with both your prescribing doctor and gynaecologist before starting Mounjaro.
