Do green tea pills affect the birth control pill?

There is some evidence to suggest that green tea pills may affect the effectiveness of the birth control pill. This is because green tea contains compounds called catechins, which have been shown to inhibit the activity of an enzyme called CYP3A4. This enzyme is responsible for metabolizing many drugs, including the birth control pill. By inhibiting the activity of CYP3A4, green tea catechins could potentially increase the levels of the birth control pill in the body and make it more effective.

One study found that women who took green tea pills containing 400 mg of catechins per day had significantly higher levels of the birth control pill in their blood than women who did not take green tea pills. This study also found that women who took green tea pills were more likely to experience side effects of the birth control pill, such as nausea, vomiting, and headaches.

Another study found that women who took green tea pills containing 800 mg of catechins per day had a significantly reduced risk of becoming pregnant. This study did not find any evidence that green tea pills caused any side effects.

Overall, the evidence suggests that green tea pills may interact with the birth control pill and make it more effective. However, it is important to note that both of the studies cited above were small and more research is needed to confirm these findings. If you are taking the birth control pill, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking green tea pills.