skip to main content

Orlistat and oral contraception — DFSRH MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModeratePharmacologyOrlistat and oral contraceptionDFSRH

A 33-year-old woman taking orlistat has oily diarrhoea and uses a combined pill. She wants to avoid pregnancy. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Discuss non-oral contraception or precautions during diarrhoea

Severe diarrhoea or malabsorption can reduce reliability of oral contraception. Non-oral methods avoid this issue. The interaction is functional malabsorption rather than hepatic enzyme induction.

Reference: BNF; FSRH Drug Interactions with Hormonal Contraception Guidance; UKMEC 2025