Medications That Interfere with Birth Control Pills

Some medications don't work well if you take them together. That's true of birth control that contains hormones. If you want it to work right, you need to avoid taking certain medications.
 

For the most part, you don't have to worry about these drugs. Rifampin (Rifadin), used to treat tuberculosis, is the only antibiotic proven to interfere with birth control pills. It speeds up the breakdown of hormones in the pills, making them less effective. 

Certain anti-seizure medications also can increase the breakdown of hormones in birth control pills. You should use an additional method of birth control, such as a condom, while taking these drugs.
 

HIV drugs can also interfere with birth control pills. These medications can alter hormone levels, so talk to your doctor about other  contraceptive methods.

The two main ones to watch out for are grisofulvin (Gris-PEG) and ketoconazole (Extina, Nizoral, Xolegel). Scientists believe the risk of antifungal meds affecting your birth control pills is low, so check with your doctor.

Herbal remedies like St. John's wort, saw palmetto, and garlic pills can make birth control pill less effective. Tell your health care provider about any herbal supplements you're taking. 

Use another form of birth control, such as a condom, while taking medications that may interfere with hormonal birth control.