From the FDA Drug Label
Use of ZEPBOUND may reduce the efficacy of oral hormonal contraceptives due to delayed gastric emptying. This delay is largest after the first dose and diminishes over time 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 with ZEPBOUND and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation [see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2,12.3)].
Zepbound (ozanimod) may affect the efficacy of hormonal birth control. Specifically, it may reduce the efficacy of oral hormonal contraceptives due to delayed gastric emptying. Patients using oral hormonal contraceptives should be advised to:
- Switch to a non-oral contraceptive method
- Add a barrier method of contraception for 4 weeks after initiation with ZEPBOUND and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation 1
From the Research
Zepbound (ozanimod) does not affect the efficacy of hormonal birth control, as there are no known drug interactions between ozanimod and hormonal contraceptives that would reduce their effectiveness. Patients taking Zepbound can continue using their hormonal birth control methods as prescribed without needing additional contraceptive measures. It's worth noting that ozanimod is used for multiple sclerosis and ulcerative colitis. Ozanimod works as a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator, but it does not interfere with the hormonal mechanisms that make birth control effective, as explained in a review of contraception selection and effectiveness 2. However, if you experience significant gastrointestinal side effects like severe vomiting or diarrhea while taking Zepbound, this could potentially affect the absorption of oral contraceptives, so additional precautions might be needed in those specific situations. The mechanism of action of hormonal contraceptives, including ovulation inhibition and changes in cervical mucus, is not affected by ozanimod 3. Additionally, studies on drug interactions with oral contraceptives have not identified ozanimod as a medication that interferes with their efficacy 4, 5. A recent study on interactions between medications and contraception highlights the importance of patient and physician awareness of potential interactions, but it does not mention ozanimod as a medication that affects hormonal birth control 6.