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Mounjaro and Oral Contraceptives: What Women Need to Know

Updated: Apr 21


Mounjaro

GLP-1 receptor agonists, including tirzepatide (sold under the brand name Mounjaro), have transformed the way we approach weight management. However, for women of reproductive age, there's an important conversation that must be had about tirzepatide and its impact on contraception.


If you're using Mounjaro or considering it as part of your weight loss plan, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about contraceptive safety and effectiveness while on the medication.


Why Women Using Weight Loss Medications Need to Consider Contraceptives

Tirzepatide works by slowing gastric emptying, reducing appetite, and increasing insulin sensitivity—an incredibly effective combination for weight loss. However, this delay in gastric emptying can also affect how some oral medications are absorbed, including birth control pills. This reduced absorption may lead to lower levels of hormones in the bloodstream, potentially decreasing the efficacy of oral contraceptives.


Additionally, GLP-1 agonists, including tirzepatide, are associated with common gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms can further compromise the effectiveness of oral birth control if pills are not fully absorbed or doses are missed.


Why Is This a Concern?

Medications like tirzepatide, while highly effective for weight loss, pose potential risks to fetal development if pregnancy occurs during use. Animal studies suggest that GLP-1 agonists could lead to developmental abnormalities, though human studies are currently lacking. For this reason, healthcare institutions like the British National Formulary advise avoiding GLP-1 medications during pregnancy. Preventing unintended pregnancies becomes crucial for women taking these medications.


How Tirzepatide Affects Oral Contraceptives

Clinical trials conducted by Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of tirzepatide, found that the initial doses of the drug significantly reduced the bioavailability of oral contraceptives. While this impact diminishes with continued use, it's particularly pronounced in the first four weeks after starting tirzepatide and after any dose increases. These findings make it essential for women using oral contraceptives to explore safer alternatives or employ additional precautions during these periods.


Contraceptive Recommendations for Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Users

If you're using tirzepatide or are planning to start, here are key contraceptive recommendations to follow:


  1. Switch to Non-Oral Contraceptive Methods: The most effective way to avoid issues with contraceptive efficacy while on tirzepatide is to use a non-oral form of contraception such as IUDs, transdermal contraceptive patches, vaginal rings and injectable contraceptives.


  1. Use Barrier Methods for Extra Protection: For women who prefer to remain on oral contraceptives, adding a barrier method, such as condoms, is strongly recommended during the first four weeks after initiating tirzepatide or following a dose increase, when its effects on oral contraceptive absorption are most significant.


Taking Control of Your Reproductive Health

GLP-1 agonists like tirzepatide are a breakthrough in the field of weight management and can provide life-changing results for many women. However, their interaction with oral contraceptives highlights the importance of proactive healthcare choices. By exploring alternative contraceptive methods, discussing options with your doctor, and staying informed, you can gain the benefits of tirzepatide while ensuring effective and safe birth control.


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