Diane-35

Dianette is a combined hormonal preparation containing cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol.

Although it provides effective contraception, it is primarily indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe acne in women of reproductive age who have not responded to topical treatments and oral antibiotics, and for moderately severe hirsutism.

It should be used for acne or hirsutism rather than solely as a contraceptive.

Cyproterone acetate is a potent anti-androgen that blocks the effects of male hormones (androgens) on the skin.

Androgens stimulate sebaceous gland activity, and excess sebum production contributes to acne. In women with hirsutism, elevated androgen levels drive excessive hair growth.

By antagonising androgen receptors and suppressing gonadotrophin release, cyproterone acetate reduces sebum output, helps clear acne, and slows unwanted hair growth.

Ethinylestradiol, the oestrogen component, provides cycle control, prevents ovulation, and raises sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which further reduces the amount of free circulating androgens.

Together, these actions make Dianette a targeted treatment for androgen-related skin conditions in women.

Take one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a seven-day tablet-free interval during which a withdrawal bleed usually occurs. Start each new strip on the same day of the week.

Swallow the tablet at roughly the same time each day with water. If you miss a tablet, follow the missed-pill rules provided in the patient leaflet.

Dianette should be discontinued once the acne or hirsutism has completely resolved, usually after three to four 21-day cycles for acne.

Do not continue Dianette solely for contraception once the skin condition has cleared; switch to a standard combined oral contraceptive instead.

One tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break.

Treatment for acne typically lasts three to four cycles but may be extended under specialist supervision if the condition has not fully resolved.

For hirsutism, a longer course of six to twelve months may be necessary to observe meaningful benefit. Dianette should not be combined with other hormonal contraceptives.

No dose adjustment is available; the preparation comes in a single fixed-dose combination.

Common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 100 women) include headache, breast tenderness, mood changes, nausea, fluid retention, and changes in body weight.

Breakthrough bleeding or spotting may occur in the first few cycles.

Uncommon side effects include migraine, decreased libido, skin rash, and changes in cervical secretions. Rarely, chloasma (facial pigmentation) may develop, which is worsened by sun exposure.

Serious risks include venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism).

The risk is higher with Dianette than with many standard combined oral contraceptives due to the cyproterone acetate component.

Arterial thromboembolism (stroke, myocardial infarction) is a rare but life-threatening risk. Liver tumours, including hepatocellular carcinoma, have been reported very rarely with prolonged use.

Meningioma has been associated with cyproterone acetate, particularly at higher doses and prolonged duration.

Because the risk of venous thromboembolism with Dianette is higher than with most combined oral contraceptives, it should not be used solely for contraception.

Discontinue use once acne or hirsutism has resolved and switch to an alternative contraceptive if needed.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden severe headache, chest pain, breathlessness, leg swelling, or visual disturbances. Smokers over the age of 35 should not use Dianette.

Inform your prescriber about any personal or family history of blood clots, migraines with aura, or liver disease.

Dianette is contraindicated in women with active or past venous or arterial thromboembolism, known thrombophilic conditions, migraine with aura, severe or multiple cardiovascular risk factors, severe hepatic disease or liver tumours, known or suspected oestrogen-dependent malignancies, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, known or suspected pregnancy, and known or existing meningioma.

It must not be used concurrently with other hormonal contraceptives.