From the FDA Drug Label
Contraception Use of MOUNJARO may reduce the efficacy of oral hormonal contraceptives. Advise patients using oral hormonal contraceptives to switch to a non-oral contraceptive method, or add a barrier method of contraception for 4 weeks after initiation and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation with MOUNJARO [see Drug Interactions (7.2), Use in Specific Populations (8. 3), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Advise patients using oral hormonal contraceptives to switch to a non-oral contraceptive method, or add a barrier method of contraception for 4 weeks after initiation and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation with MOUNJARO. Hormonal contraceptives that are not administered orally should not be affected [see Use in Specific Populations (8. 3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2,12.3)].
Mounjaro and Birth Control: The use of Mounjaro may reduce the efficacy of oral hormonal contraceptives. To minimize the risk of reduced contraceptive efficacy, patients using oral hormonal contraceptives should:
- Switch to a non-oral contraceptive method
- Add a barrier method of contraception for 4 weeks after initiation and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation with Mounjaro 1 1
From the Research
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, and therefore, it is recommended to use additional contraceptive methods like condoms or an IUD when taking Mounjaro for weight management or type 2 diabetes. This is because Mounjaro can delay gastric emptying, potentially affecting how oral contraceptives are absorbed in the body 2. The delay in gastric emptying is most substantial after the first dose of tirzepatide, and the drug then undergoes tachyphylaxis after subsequent doses 2.
Some key points to consider when taking Mounjaro with birth control include:
- Mounjaro can affect the absorption of oral contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness 2
- Severe gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea while taking Mounjaro may further compromise the effectiveness of birth control pills 2
- Discussing this interaction with a healthcare provider is crucial, as they may recommend adjusting the birth control method or timing 2
- Taking the birth control pill at a different time than the Mounjaro injection might help maintain effectiveness 2
It is essential to prioritize morbidity, mortality, and quality of life when considering the use of Mounjaro with birth control. The most recent and highest-quality study on this topic, published in 2024, suggests that tirzepatide has a greater impact on the absorption of oral hormonal contraceptives compared to other GLP-1 receptor agonists 2. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions to ensure effective contraception when taking Mounjaro.