Dianette - action, side effects, dosage, contraindications

Dianette is a type of hormonal contraceptive pill, which contains two active ingredients, ethinylestradiol and cyproterone acetate. Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic version of oestrogen, and cyproterone acetate is derived from progesterone. These two hormones work together to prevent ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovaries.

As well as preventing ovulation, Dianette also works by changing the lining of the womb (making it less likely that a fertilised egg will be able to implant itself and develop) and making the mucus at the neck of the womb thicker (which makes it more difficult for sperm to cross from the vagina into the womb).

This combined action of the hormones makes Dianette a highly effective form of contraception. Beyond its contraceptive use, Dianette is also prescribed for its anti-androgenic properties to treat conditions like severe acne and excessive hair growth in women.

Dianette is a prescription medication that is primarily indicated for the treatment of severe acne and moderately severe hirsutism in women. Its use is particularly recommended when these conditions have not responded to antibiotics or topical treatments.

Severe acne refers to persistent and widespread skin problems characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and greasy skin. Hirsutism is a condition in women where excess body hair growth occurs, especially in areas where hair growth in men is usually more pronounced, such as the face, chest, and back.

Dianette may also be prescribed for the regulation of menstrual cycles and the reduction of premenstrual syndrome symptoms in women. However, it should be noted that Dianette is not primarily a contraceptive, but it has a contraceptive effect as a result of its mechanism of action.

It is important that Dianette is used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, and it is not suitable for everyone. The prescriber should take into consideration the individual patient's health history, overall health status, and other medications they may be taking.

It is crucial to follow the prescriber's instructions regarding the dosage and length of treatment with Dianette. Failure to do so may increase the risk of potential side effects and could compromise the effectiveness of the treatment.

Dianette, a hormonal medicine, is generally safe for most users. However, it is contraindicated in several situations due to potential health risks. The following are some of the primary contraindications for Dianette:

• People with a history of or active thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, should not take Dianette.
• It is not indicated for patients who have had strokes or transient ischemic attacks.
• Patient with known or suspected breast cancer or any hormone-dependent cancer should refrain from using Dianette.
• This medication is contraindicated in people with severe diabetes that has caused damage to blood vessels.
• People with abnormal vaginal bleeding that hasn't been diagnosed by a doctor should not use Dianette.
• It is not to be used by patients with a history of migraines with aura.
• People with liver diseases or liver tumors should not use Dianette.
• Finally, women who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant should not take Dianette as it can affect the development of the fetus.

These are just a few examples of the contraindications. If you have any particular health condition or concerns, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before initiating any new medication, including Dianette. Also, it is essential to read the package leaflet before starting to take this medicine for complete information on contraindications and precautions.

Like all medicines, Dianette can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The frequency and severity of these side effects may vary from person to person. As a patient, it's important to be aware of these potential side effects so you can take action and consult your doctor if needed.

Common side effects include but are not limited to:

• Headaches
• Stomach pain
• Changes in weight
• Mood changes
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness

If you experience any of these common side effects and they persist or become troublesome, speak to your doctor.

Uncommon side effects include:

• Increased blood pressure
• Changes in libido
• Changes in the pattern of your periods

There are also rare, but serious side effects to be aware of. If you experience any of these, seek immediate medical attention:

• Signs of a blood clot
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction
• Signs of liver problems
• Signs of breast cancer

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. For a full list, please refer to the patient information leaflet or consult your doctor.

Dianette is typically taken once daily, ideally at the same time each day. The standard dosage is one tablet per day for a period of 21 days. This is followed by a seven-day break during which no tablets are taken. After this break, the cycle is repeated. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.

It's essential to adhere to this prescribed regimen to ensure the contraceptive and anti-acne effects of Dianette. If a tablet is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if more than 12 hours have passed, the missed dose should be skipped. In such instances, the next tablet should be taken at the usual time, and additional contraceptive methods should be used for the next seven days to ensure continued protection against pregnancy.

If more than one tablet is missed in a pack, it's advisable to seek medical advice on the appropriate course of action. In cases of stomach upset or sickness, absorption of the tablet may be affected, and additional contraceptive measures may be necessary.

While Dianette is generally well-tolerated, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional if any unusual symptoms occur or for any queries regarding dosage and administration.

Dianette is primarily used as a contraceptive pill to prevent pregnancy in women. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Generally, one tablet is taken daily for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break. During this break, a withdrawal bleed similar to a period usually occurs.

It is important to take the pill at the same time each day to ensure its effectiveness. The tablet can be taken with or without food, but it is advised to take it with food if it causes stomach upset. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped. Double doses should never be taken to compensate for missed ones.

In addition to contraceptive use, Dianette has also been prescribed to treat severe acne and excessive hair growth in women. As it contains the active ingredients cyproterone and ethinylestradiol, it helps to regulate hormone levels, thereby reducing the symptoms of these conditions.

It should be noted that Dianette should not be used solely for acne treatment. It should only be used when other treatments have failed and should be discontinued once the condition has improved.

While Dianette is a highly effective contraceptive, it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, additional precautions should be taken when necessary.

When taking Dianette as a form of treatment, there are several precautions that need to be taken to ensure its safe and effective use. These precautions are not only important for your overall health, but are also crucial in avoiding any potential side effects or complications that may arise from the drug's usage.

Firstly, it's essential to inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions before starting the treatment. Conditions such as liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of migraines can significantly affect how Dianette works in your body. For instance, Dianette may increase your risk of developing blood clots, which can be fatal if they travel to the heart or lungs. Therefore, it's crucial to disclose any personal or family history of blood clots to your doctor.

Secondly, while taking Dianette, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are vital. These visits allow the doctor to monitor your progress and adjust the dosage if necessary. It's also important to be aware of any changes in your body and report them immediately to your doctor. This includes any unusual bleeding, changes in mood or weight, or symptoms of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Another important precaution is to avoid smoking, especially if you are over 35 years old. Smoking can increase your risk of developing serious side effects, including blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. Similarly, alcohol should be consumed in moderation as it may interact with Dianette and increase the risk of side effects.

Lastly, it's essential to use additional contraception methods while taking Dianette if you are sexually active, as the medication does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Considering the interactions of Dianette is crucial because it can significantly affect the drug's efficacy and safety. It is important to understand that Dianette can interact with certain medications, which can either increase or reduce its effectiveness or increase side effects.

The following are some of the medications known to interact with Dianette:

• Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics can reduce the efficacy of Dianette, increasing the risk of unwanted pregnancy. These include rifampicin and rifabutin, which are used to treat tuberculosis.
• Antiepileptic drugs: Certain antiepileptic drugs, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, and barbiturates, can also decrease the effectiveness of Dianette.
• Antiviral drugs: Some antiviral drugs used in the treatment of HIV, such as ritonavir, may also interact with Dianette, altering its effectiveness.
• St John’s wort: This herbal supplement is known to reduce the effectiveness of Dianette when taken simultaneously.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements, you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. Do not start, stop, or alter the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

The price of Dianette can vary depending on where it is purchased. It is available in many pharmacies and online platforms, and the cost may differ based on these locations. It's important to note that the price might also vary depending on the quantity of the product. For instance, a pack of 63 tablets would naturally cost more than a pack of 21 tablets.

Various factors influence the price of Dianette. The manufacturer's pricing policies, the mark-up by the retailer, and any applicable taxes or import fees can all impact the final price. Consumers should also consider any additional costs, such as shipping fees when purchasing online.

It is advisable to do a price comparison across different retail platforms to get the best possible price. However, while price is an important factor, it should not be the sole determinant when purchasing this medication. Considerations such as the credibility of the seller and the expiry date of the medication should also be taken into account.

Another point to consider is whether your health insurance plan covers the cost of this medication. Some insurance companies may provide coverage for birth control pills like Dianette, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Lastly, it is important to note that despite the price, Dianette should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional, and it should not be used for any purpose other than the one prescribed.

When looking for substitutes for Dianette, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, as they can provide advice based on your individual medical history and current medications. However, there are several alternatives to Dianette available on the market that may be considered.

• Clairette: This is a combined oral contraceptive pill that contains two hormones, ethinylestradiol and desogestrel, similar to Dianette. Clairette is often used as a substitute for Dianette and can help to regulate periods, reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, and control acne.
• Yasmin: Yasmin is another combined oral contraceptive that uses a different progestin, drospirenone. It has similar effects to Dianette and is often used for acne control, but it may have fewer side effects.
• Co-Cyprindiol: This is a generic version of Dianette and contains the same active ingredients, cyproterone and ethinylestradiol. Co-Cyprindiol is often prescribed as a more affordable substitute for Dianette.

Remember, while these substitutes can be used in place of Dianette, they may not be suitable for everyone and they do not offer complete protection against sexually transmitted infections. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.