Does vitamin C taken in excess affect the WEAKENING of combined contraceptive pills? (Liberelle) I really like grapefruit juices, but I learned about "some" negative effects after drinking, for example, a liter per day Some sources write that they weaken, and in most cases that they interact, but do not weaken (tablets are washed down only with a small amount of water)
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Klaudia Ćwiąkała Pharmacist, Editor
2 years ago
I enclose excerpts from our article in which we explain these interactions: "Vitamin C used at a dose above 1000 mg can alter the absorption and concentration of ethinyl estradiol and make the cycle irregular; also, a sudden withdrawal of vitamin C can reduce the level of estrogen in the blood - in both cases, a change in the concentration of hormones in the blood increases the risk of side effects, which may result in an increased risk of ovulation and unplanned pregnancy; it is worth emphasizing, however, that the data on this subject are few, debatable and ambiguous, but since the leaflets of some contraceptives (e.g. Belara), contain such warnings, the effect of vitamin C on contraception cannot be completely excluded" "When using hormonal contraception, you should not drink tablets with citrus juices (e.g. grapefruit, orange). The ingredients contained in them inhibit the activity of the cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 3A4, which is responsible for the metabolism of estradiol – a component of two-component contraceptives. In short, the liver will be "busy" with the decomposition of juice, not tablets. However, this will not lead to a decrease in their effectiveness, but may increase the risk of side effects (e.g. vomiting or diarrhea), which may only reduce the effectiveness of the tablets. Birth control pills are best washed down with still water." Here I can add that it is best to keep a distance of at least 4 hours between drinking grapefruit juice and taking the contraceptive pill. Whole article: https://www.gdziepolek.pl/artykuly/jakie-leki-oslabiaja-skutecznosc-antykoncepcji