Overview
What is it?
Ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate is a combination medication used primarily as an oral contraceptive. Ethinyl estradiol is a synthetic form of estrogen, while cyproterone acetate is a synthetic progestin with antiandrogenic properties. This combination is not naturally occurring and is specifically designed to regulate hormones and treat conditions related to androgen excess, such as acne.
How does it work?
Ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate work together to combat acne by regulating hormone levels. Cyproterone acetate blocks the effects of androgens (male hormones) on the skin, reducing oil production and preventing clogged pores. Ethinyl estradiol helps to balance hormones further by suppressing ovulation and reducing the overall levels of androgens in the body. This combination effectively addresses the hormonal causes of acne, leading to clearer skin .
What are the benefits?
The primary benefit of ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate for acne is its ability to target the hormonal root cause of the condition. It not only reduces acne but also helps with other symptoms of hyperandrogenism, such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and irregular menstrual cycles. Additionally, it serves as an effective contraceptive, making it a dual-purpose treatment for women seeking both acne control and birth control .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research shows that ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate is highly effective in treating moderate to severe acne, particularly in women with hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Studies have demonstrated significant improvements in acne severity, with many patients experiencing clearer skin after several months of use. It is considered a first-line treatment for hormonal acne in women of childbearing age .
Side Effects
Nausea
Nausea is a common side effect, especially when starting the medication, but it often subsides over time .
Headaches
Headaches may occur due to hormonal changes but are usually mild and temporary .
Breast tenderness
Breast tenderness can happen as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes caused by the medication .
Mood changes
Mood changes, including irritability or depression, have been reported in some users .
Weight gain
Weight gain is a possible side effect, though it is not experienced by everyone .
Increased risk of blood clots
There is an increased risk of blood clots, particularly in women who smoke or have other risk factors for thrombosis .
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Oral Contraceptives in Dermatology
This review discusses the use of oral contraceptives in dermatology, particularly for treating acne and hirsutism. It highlights the importance of choosing contraceptives with antiandrogenic properties for hormonal acne.
View study[2] Treatment of lean PCOS teenagers: a follow-up comparison between Myo-Inositol and oral contraceptives
This study compares the effectiveness of Myo-Inositol and oral contraceptives in treating PCOS symptoms, including acne, in adolescents.
View study[3] Anti-androgen treatments
This review outlines the use of anti-androgen treatments, including ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate, for conditions like acne and hirsutism.
View study[4] Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol
This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol for treating acne and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
View study[5] The effects of hormonal contraceptives on female sexuality: a review
This review explores how hormonal contraceptives, including ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate, can influence female sexual function.
View study[6] Dienogest
This review discusses the properties and efficacy of dienogest, a progestin with antiandrogenic effects, in treating acne and other androgen-related conditions.
View study[7] Ethinylestradiol/chlormadinone acetate
This study evaluates the effectiveness of ethinylestradiol/chlormadinone acetate in treating acne and other androgen-related skin conditions.
View study