Combined Oral Contraceptives and Lamotrigine: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This combination requires caution. Combined Oral Contraceptives and Lamotrigine can be used together with adjustments and monitoring.
How Combined Oral Contraceptives interacts with Lamotrigine
Ethinylestradiol induces UGT-mediated glucuronidation of lamotrigine, lowering lamotrigine concentrations. Lamotrigine levels can rise during hormone-free intervals.
What you should do
Monitor seizure or mood control and adjust lamotrigine dose when starting or stopping combined hormonal contraception. Consider continuous regimens or non-estrogen contraception when appropriate.
Key facts
Severity
Moderate — caution required
Mechanism
Ethinylestradiol induces UGT-mediated glucuronidation of lamotrigine, lowering lamotrigine concentrations. Lamotrigine l...
Action
Monitor seizure or mood control and adjust lamotrigine dose when starting or stopping combined hormonal contraception. C...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Combined Oral Contraceptives and Lamotrigine together?
With caution. Monitor seizure or mood control and adjust lamotrigine dose when starting or stopping combined hormonal contraception. Consider continuous regimens or non-estrogen contraception when appropriate.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Combined Oral Contraceptives and Lamotrigine is classified as Moderate — caution required. Ethinylestradiol induces UGT-mediated glucuronidation of lamotrigine, lowering lamotrigine concentrations. Lamotrigine levels can rise during hormone-free intervals.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Monitor seizure or mood control and adjust lamotrigine dose when starting or stopping combined hormonal contraception. Consider continuous regimens or non-estrogen contraception when appropriate. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.