An Introduction to Mirena Drug Interactions
It is not known if
Mirena® can interact with other medications. Mirena is an intrauterine contraceptive (IUC) that contains levonorgestrel, a progesterone hormone often used in
birth control pills. Although levonorgestrel (when taken by mouth, such as in the form of a birth control pill) interacts with many medications, it is not known if these interactions also apply to Mirena. Medications that may interact with levonorgestrel to decrease its effectiveness (and increase the risk of pregnancy) include:
- Aminoglutethimide (Cytadren®)
- Antibiotics
- Aprepitant (Emend®)
- Barbiturate medications, including, but not limited to:
- Amobarbital (Amytal®)
- Butalbital (Fioricet®, Fiorinal®)
- Pentobarbital (Nembutal®)
- Phenobarbital (Luminal®)
- Primidone (Mysoline®)
- Secobarbital (Seconal®)
Again, it is not clear if these interactions apply to Mirena or not. Typically, these interactions decrease the level of levonorgestrel in the blood. However, it is not known if a certain minimum blood level of levonorgestrel is necessary for Mirena to work, or if Mirena works right at the sight of insertion (at the uterus). Check with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations for your particular situation.