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Vomiting and combined pill — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePatient CounsellingVomiting and combined pillGPhC CRA

A 26-year-old woman taking a combined oral contraceptive pill has vomiting within two hours of taking an active tablet. She asks whether the pill has still worked. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: E — Follow missed-pill advice because absorption may be incomplete

Vomiting soon after taking an oral contraceptive can reduce absorption and should be managed like a missed pill according to the product and timing in the cycle. Ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea may require additional precautions. Emergency contraception may be needed depending on missed pills and recent unprotected sex.

Reference: FSRH guidance; BNF