Please Note: Due to volume considerations, not all questions can be answered. Questions most likely to be answered will be those of general interest to a broad group of visitors to this forum. Questions pertaining to a specific case; requests for diagnosis, medical advice, or second opinion; or requests for opinions about untested alternative therapies will generally not be answered.
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Oral Contraceptive
Apr 8, 2003
I was considering going on birth-control pills (ortho tri-cyclen lo) to help control facial acne; I am in my early 30s and my acne seems to be stress/hormonal related. I was diagnosed HIV positive in November and I am not currently on any meds (other than Effexor for depression). Is there any negative reason related to my health and being HIV positive that I should AVOID taking birth control pills? IF so, I would just skip it, I am trying to think long term with my health. I would like the benefits that come from the pill -- related to a more regular cycle and help with my skin, but I don't know if this is an OK choice. Please give me your insight. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
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Response from Dr. Jackson
Oral contraceptives remain an appropriate option for the HIV infected woman. However, a number of antiretrovirals such as nelfinavir, ritonavir, amprenavir, kaletra, and efavirenz may be associated with decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptives including a possible increase in breakthrough bleeding. Therefore, you and your physician should be aware of these interactions before starting therapy.
BJ
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