Skip to main content

What types of birth control work with Orilissa?

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Aug 5, 2024.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Orilissa (elagolix) is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist used to treat moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis.

Orilissa may increase the chances of early pregnancy loss, so it should not be taken during pregnancy or while trying to become pregnant.

Use non-hormonal brith control methods with Orilissa

Non-hormonal birth control methods (contraceptives) should be used during treatment with Orilissa and for one week after to prevent pregnancy. Non-hormonal birth control methods include condoms and spermicides.

Orilissa should not be used with hormonal birth control methods, including birth control pills, because estrogen-containing contraceptives can potentially reduce the effectiveness of Orilissa. The effect of progestin-only contraceptives on Orilissa is unknown.

Stop taking Orilissa and contact your doctor if you think you are pregnant

It may be difficult to tell if you have become pregnant while taking Orilissa because it can make you menstrual periods irregular, cause spotting, decrease menstrual bleeding and stop menstrual bleeding altogether. Watch for other pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, weight gain and breast tenderness.

If you think you may be pregnant and are taking Orilissa, you should stop taking Orilissa straight away and contact your doctor.

References

Read next

Can Elagolix be used for heavy menstrual bleeding in women?

Elagolix is approved to help reduce endometriosis-associated pain, and research has also shown that it can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding in women with fibroids although this is not without side effects. Women with uterine fibroids were treated with Elagolix in addition to hormonal “Add-back” therapy for 6 months. 68.5% in one study and 76.5% in the other reported at least a 50% reduction in menstrual blood loss from the start of the study to the final month and a menstrual blood loss of less than 80mL by the final month of the study. Using Elagolix to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding is an unapproved use for the drug. Continue reading

What are my options for birth control and how effective are they?

Birth control refers to any behavioral, hormonal, spermicidal, or physical device that is used to prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately for most, human error ("Oops the condom broke", or "I forgot to take my pill") is the reason most forms of birth control (also called contraception) fail; and this has resulted in most manufacturers rating their product's effectiveness on a dual scale: perfect use (PU) and typical use (TU). Continue reading

What should I expect after a Mirena IUD removal?

It is typically less painful to get your Mirena IUD removed than it is to get it inserted but for a few hours or days after the removal you may experience some light pain and bleeding, cramping, or feel dizzy. An IUD removal typically takes about 5 minutes, but you should allow 20 minutes for the whole appointment. Consider eating something before your appointment so you are less likely to feel dizzy, and take some painkillers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen one hour before to help with any pain. Most women can go straight back to work or study or usual activities after the IUD is taken out. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups