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Combined oral contraceptive and vomiting — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardEndocrine TherapeuticsCombined oral contraceptive and vomitingGPhC CRA

A woman taking Microgynon 30 vomited two hours after tablet 3 of a new strip. She took no replacement, is now more than 12 hours late, and had unprotected sex two days ago. Which advice is most appropriate?

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

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Correct answer: E — Continue this strip, use condoms for seven days, and assess emergency contraception

Vomiting within about three to four hours can prevent complete absorption and is managed as a missed tablet. Because this occurred in week 1, is more than 12 hours late and unprotected sex occurred in the preceding seven days, emergency contraception must be considered. She should continue tablets and use barrier contraception for seven days.

Reference: Microgynon 30 SmPC: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1130/smpc