How do birth control and nasal decongestants interact?

Answer by  salsafoodie (3146)

There is no evidence that these two will have a problem, with the effectiveness of each other. However, if there is some form of antibiotics inside then that will effect your birth control. You should always ask your doctor before taking any medication to find out the side effects with the birth control.

Answer by  Erynn (1651)

You have to check the specific warnings on both your birth control and the nasal decongestants - most are completely without interaction but this is a sweeping generalisation and as with any medication, one should read the label. Medications that interact with birth control usually state that they do so.

Answer by  monkeyz (3150)

There is no common ingredient in nasal decongestants that interacts with birth control. The only common medications that will usually interact with them are antibiotics.

Answer by  Travis404607 (3916)

Most birth controls do not interact with nasal decongestants. Antibiotics render most birth control pills ineffective. If you are having doubts about a particular pill, ask a pharmacist if it will interact with your particular birth control pill or not. Over-the-counter medications generally do not have adverse effects with birth control pills.

Answer by  dtalk (428)

It is completely safe. The only thing you should be worried about when under birth control is smoking. Smoking in conjunction with birth control can cause fatal blood clots that worsen over time. Surgery is needed to remedy the bloodclots, in the form of a stent. They keep the veins open.

Answer by  pounces (16)

Currently you will not find evidence of these two drugs (birth control and nasal decongestants) effectiveness changing while used together. As always it is best to contact your doctor when taking medication. Your doctor will be able to inform you of any possible side effects that could occur when used together.

Answer by  amyturk (199)

Birth control and nasal decongestants do not interact. You do not need to use a back-up method of birth control when taking nasal decongestants.