Tetracycline and BC pills

[JesterGirl]

I went to go refill my prescription for the Pill today and my pharmacist noticed that I just had a prescription for Tetracycline 2 weeks ago. She asked how long I was on it (4-5 days) and how long I've been off (1 week). Then she proceeded to tell me that the Tetracyline will stay in my system for 2-3 months and will negate the effects of the birth control pill. Is this true??? I have heard that antibiotic can counteract the effects of BC pill if you take both at the same time, but I have NEVER EVER heard that it stays in the system 2-3 months. That is ridiculous. Any input?

[Blonde19]

Hi!!!Yes, that does sound pretty ridiculous doesn't it, but the same thing happened to me. Yes it is true that anti-biotics will overweigh the effectiveness of BC pills, but in my case, the tetracycline stayed in my system for 1 month, not 2-3. But I would assume that if it stayed in my sustem for 1 month, and I had only been taking it twice a day for only four days, that the anti-biotic does have the potential of staying in the body for up to three weeks. My suggestion is to definately use other forms of BC such as diafram and/or condoms at least for the nest three months. You don't want to take the chance!!!! Lots of love, Hope everything works out ~~~~~~~

[WL042901]

Hey Jester,
I'm with you - never heard of antibitotics staying in your system that long. If that was the case then why is it that an infection can recur within a few days of finishing antibiotics? I have had several doctors say to double up on contraceptives during the time you're taking antibiotics and for a week or two after. I have even heard as long as 1 month, but never more than that. If you are ever unsure about something that one pharmacist or doctor tells you, feel free to ask a few others to get a general consensus - get a "2nd opinion" so to speak...