Does Azithromycin Interact with Birth Control?
Medically reviewed by Faith Coleman, University of New Mexico School of Medicine on August 21st, 2026.
Azithromycin does not significantly reduce birth control pill effectiveness. Unlike some antibiotics, azithromycin belongs to the macrolide class and doesn't induce liver enzymes that metabolize hormonal contraceptives. Clinical studies show no measurable decrease in estrogen or progestin levels when azithromycin is taken with birth control pills. However, gastrointestinal side effects like nausea or diarrhea from azithromycin could potentially interfere with pill absorption if severe. The CDC does not recommend using backup contraception with macrolides like azithromycin.
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