skip to main content

Carbamazepine and contraception — GPhC CRA MCQ

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

ModerateCNS TherapeuticsCarbamazepine and contraceptionGPhC CRA

A 25-year-old woman taking carbamazepine for epilepsy asks for a combined oral contraceptive pill supply from a private online service. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Carbamazepine can reduce hormonal contraceptive effectiveness

Carbamazepine is an enzyme inducer and can reduce exposure to many hormonal contraceptives. The patient needs contraception advice that accounts for enzyme induction and pregnancy risk in epilepsy. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF; FSRH guidance