Antibiotics and the pill

[punkybear]

I was just perscribed antibiotics today. I have two active pills left before my "placebos". How long do I have to be careful and use a backup method if at all since it is this late in my cycle?

[cugirl]

I would still use another form of Birth Control while taking the antibiotics if you plan to have sex.  If not I wouldnt worry with another form.

[krushing]

My dr always told me to use another form of protection while taking antibiotics and to continue for at least 7 days after taking antibiotics to let the pill get back in your system.  If they are extremely strong, he suggested waiting 30 days like when you are first put on bcp.  It sounded extreme, but I've never questioned it seeing how you can never tell how much an antibiotic is going to decrease the effectiveness of bcp.

[shygirl1981]

and u're obviously going to get your period in the next five days.....I'd say its late enough in the month you should be fine. and if you really want to have sex during af that should be fine as well. if you start your next pack and are still on the antibiotics, you should use a backu p for at least 7 days after the prescr. is finished.  in past relationships I continued having sex while on anti biotics and only used the withdrawal method and I never had an problems.  but  I wouldnt recommend it!!

[punkybear]

Thank you everyone. Thank you for the suggestion, Sailor's Wife, I did call the pharmacist and they told me that they brand of antibiotics I am on, Avelox, do not interfere with the pill in case anybody wanted to know. Have a good weekend everybody!

[monkeyflower]

The only antibiotic that has been shown to actually interfere with the pill is rifampin. Anyone who gets pregnant while on the pill and taking antibiotics would have gotten pregnant anyway (the pill isn't 100% effective).