Femhrt (Norethindrone Acetate / Ethinyl Estradiol) - Drug Interactions, Contraindications, Overdosage, etc

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Drug Interactions

See PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions.

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that estrogens are metabolized partially by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Therefore, inducers or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism. Inducers of CYP3A4 such as St. John's Wort preparations (Hypericum perforatum), phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and rifampin may reduce plasma concentrations of estrogens, possibly resulting in a decrease in therapeutic effects and/or changes in the uterine bleeding profile. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir and grapefruit juice may increase plasma concentrations of estrogens and may result in side effects.

OVERDOSAGE

Serious ill effects have not been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of progestin/estrogen - containing oral contraceptives by young children. Overdosage of estrogen may cause nausea and vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding may occur.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

femhrt should not be used in women with any of the following conditions:

1. Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding.

2. Known, suspected, or history of cancer of the breast.

3. Known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia.

4. Active deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism or history of these conditions.

5. Active or recent (e.g., within past year) arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g., stroke, myocardial infarction).

6. Liver dysfunction or disease.

7. femhrt should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to its ingredients.

8. Known or suspected pregnancy. There is no indication for femhrt in pregnancy. There appears to be little or no increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who have used estrogens and progestins from oral contraceptives inadvertently during early pregnancy. (See PRECAUTIONS.)