Drug interactions with birth control refers to oral contraceptives, not barrier methods of birth control. Oral contraceptives work by releasing the hormones estrogen and progesterone in order to prevent ovulation, thus preventing pregnancy.
Types
Antibiotics can decrease the effectiveness of birth control. Tetracycline is a common antibiotic that is used for many bacterial infections and the National Center for Biotechnology Information notes that another method of birth control should always be used while this medication.
Anti-fungal medications, which are used for fungal infections such as athlete's foot, may also interfere with the effectiveness of birth control.
Recommendations
Medication warning labels usually state whether the medications have any possible drug interactions. A doctor or pharmacist can also help determine any possible interactions. It is important to always tell a doctor about current medications so that he is well-informed of the individual case. Alternate birth control methods should always be used in cases of uncertainty.
Considerations
Although it is not a medication, it is important to note that grapefruit may also interfere with the effectiveness of birth control. Avoidance of grapefruit juice is recommended for anyone taking birth control pills.
