skip to main content

Rifampicin and combined oral contraception — GPhC CRA MCQ

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

ModerateDrug InteractionsRifampicin and combined oral contraceptionGPhC CRA

A 29-year-old woman takes the combined oral contraceptive pill and is prescribed rifampicin for latent tuberculosis. She asks whether her pill will still work. 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: ERifampicin can reduce contraceptive efficacy through enzyme induction.

Rifampicin is a potent enzyme inducer and can reduce exposure to hormonal contraceptives, risking contraceptive failure. The patient needs advice about reliable non-hormonal or specialist-recommended contraception during and after rifampicin therapy. This interaction is clinically important even with good pill adherence.

Reference: BNF; Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare guidance