Activated Charcoal - Phexxi (Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Bitartrate) Interaction
Herbal: Activated Charcoal
Also Known As: Activated Carbon, Animal Charcoal, Carbo Vegetabilis, Carbón Activado, Charbon Actif, Charbon Activé, Charbon Animal, Charbon Médicinal, Charbon Végétal, Charbon Végétal Activé, Charcoal, Gas Black, Lamp Black, Medicinal Charcoal, Noir de Gaz, Noir de Lampe
Drug: Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Bitartrate
Brand names:
Phexxi
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 11, 2025
Interaction Details
Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Bitartrate is classified as belonging to the following category: Contraceptive Drugs
Activated charcoal may reduce the clinical effects of oral contraceptives.
Activated charcoal, taken in a dose of 5 grams four times daily for 3 days, may bind to, and reduce the absorption of, oral contraceptives, thereby limiting their effectiveness and increasing the risk of contraceptive failure. However, some clinical research shows that the risk for this interaction is minimal when activated charcoal is taken either 3 hours after or at least 12 hours before oral contraceptives.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Elomaa K, Ranta S, Tuominen J, Lähteenmäki P. Charcoal treatment and risk of escape ovulation in oral contraceptive users. Hum Reprod. 2001;16(1):76-81.
Activated Charcoal Overview
Charcoal can be produced from a variety of sources, including peat, coal, wood, coconut shell, and petroleum. It has been used medicinally for gastrointestinal ailments such as upset stomach and flatulence. Activated charcoal has been reported to be effective at absorbing potential toxins and poisons after accidental ingestion, but it is important to seek medical attention first if you suspect this. Charcoal is 'activated' by increasing its surface area via heating or with an activating agent, like zinc chloride.
Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Bitartrate Overview
-
The combination of lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate is used to prevent pregnancy when used just before vaginal sex in women who can become pregnant. It does not prevent pregnancy when used after vaginal sex. The combination of lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate is in a class of medications called non-hormonal contraceptives. It works by lowering the pH of the vagina and reducing sperm motility. Lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate may prevent pregnancy, but this medication will not prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]) and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Activated Charcoal - More Interactions
Activated Charcoal interacts with 1992 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
Return to the main supplement interaction checker page
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
Ask A Pharmacist