Does Tirzepatide Make Birth Control Less Effective?

Tirzepatide may make oral hormonal birth control less effective for a short time after you start treatment and after each dose increase. Use a non-oral contraceptive method or add a barrier method, such as condoms, for 4 weeks after starting tirzepatide and for 4 weeks after each dose increase. Tirzepatide is a GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that affects blood sugar and slows gastric emptying. Slower gastric emptying can affect the absorption of oral hormonal contraceptives. Tirzepatide does not need to alter liver enzymes to affect oral birth control. By slowing gastric emptying, it may change how oral contraceptives are absorbed, especially after treatment begins or the dose increases. A drug-interaction study found reduced exposure to an oral contraceptive after a dose of tirzepatide. Hormonal contraceptives that are not taken by mouth, such as patches, are not expected to be affected by delayed gastric emptying. Vomiting or severe diarrhea may also reduce absorption of an oral contraceptive. Follow the contraceptive’s instructions for missed pills or vomiting, and contact a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are unsure what to do. If you're starting tirzepatide and have concerns about your birth control, we can help you discuss timing and backup methods with a healthcare provider.