Is prolonged menstrual bleeding, lasting 11 days with increased heaviness and bright red color, related to the interaction between fluoxetine (Prozac) and ibuprofen (Advil) in a patient taking back-to-back combined oral contraceptives (COCs)?

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Differential Diagnosis

  • Single most likely diagnosis:
    • Breakthrough bleeding due to extended use of birth control pills: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's history of taking birth control pills back to back, which can lead to irregular menstrual bleeding, including breakthrough bleeding.
  • Other Likely diagnoses:
    • Hormonal imbalance: The patient's irregular menstrual bleeding could be due to hormonal imbalances caused by the extended use of birth control pills.
    • Menstrual irregularity: The patient's menstrual cycle has been disrupted due to the back-to-back use of birth control pills, leading to irregular and prolonged menstrual bleeding.
    • Ibuprofen and fluoxetine interaction: Although less likely, the interaction between ibuprofen and fluoxetine could potentially contribute to increased menstrual bleeding, as the patient has suggested.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
    • Ectopic pregnancy: Although unlikely, given the patient's use of birth control pills, an ectopic pregnancy could present with irregular vaginal bleeding and must be ruled out.
    • Uterine cancer or other gynecological malignancies: Unusual or prolonged vaginal bleeding can be a symptom of uterine cancer or other gynecological malignancies, and must be considered in the differential diagnosis.
  • Rare diagnoses:
    • Bleeding disorders (e.g., von Willebrand disease): Although rare, bleeding disorders could potentially contribute to the patient's prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding.
    • Thyroid disorders: Certain thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, can cause menstrual irregularities, including heavy or prolonged bleeding.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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