pills (amoxicillin, augmentin) less effective?
A. Absolutely. Penicillin and related drugs–amoxicillin, augmentin, ampicillin, Pen VK–all have the potential to interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Always use a back-up method of birth control when taking any antibiotic, but do continue to take your pill as you usually do–your body is already used to the “cycle” of the pill. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist when you pick up your antibiotic. There are many antibiotics that will interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control pills. How antibiotics interfere with birth control pills is actually not clear. If you are an adult female who has had a total hysterectomy (your ovaries removed), this also applies to you. You may find that your estrogen replacement therapy is not as effective. Ask your healthcare provider if she wants you to increase your dose to avoid any hot flashes, flushing or night sweats.
