Overview
What is it?
Ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate are synthetic hormones used in combination as an oral contraceptive. Ethinyl estradiol is a synthetic form of estrogen, while norgestimate is a synthetic progestin derived from testosterone. This combination is not naturally occurring but is widely used in birth control pills and has been approved by regulatory agencies like the FDA and EMA for treating acne in women who also need contraception.
How does it work?
Ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate work together to combat acne by targeting the hormonal factors that contribute to its development. Acne is often linked to excess androgen (male hormone) activity, which increases sebum (oil) production and leads to clogged pores. Ethinyl estradiol helps reduce the levels of active androgens in the body, while norgestimate has anti-androgenic properties, meaning it blocks the effects of androgens. Together, they reduce sebum production and prevent follicular hyperkeratinization (clogging of hair follicles), which are key factors in acne formation .
What are the benefits?
The combination of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate offers several benefits for acne treatment. It effectively reduces sebum production, decreases the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions, and improves skin clarity. Additionally, it provides the added benefit of contraception, making it a convenient option for women who need both acne treatment and birth control .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research shows that ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate are effective in treating moderate acne vulgaris. Clinical trials, including placebo-controlled studies, have demonstrated significant reductions in acne lesions compared to placebo. The combination has been shown to improve acne severity over time, with many patients experiencing clearer skin after several months of use . It is particularly effective for women whose acne is hormonally driven, as it addresses the underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to acne .
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 they are usually mild and manageable .
Breast tenderness
Breast tenderness is a temporary side effect caused by the hormonal adjustments in the body .
Mood changes
Mood changes, such as irritability or mild depression, can occur but are typically not severe .
Weight gain
Weight gain is rare and usually minimal, but some individuals may notice slight changes .
Irregular bleeding
Irregular bleeding or spotting between periods is common during the first few months of use but often resolves as the body adjusts .
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] The role of combined oral contraceptives containing norgestimate for acne vulgaris treatment: a review
This review highlights the approval of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate for acne treatment by the FDA and EMA. It explains how the combination reduces sebum production and follicular hyperkeratinization.
View study[2] The paradigm of norgestimate: a third-generation testosterone-derivative progestin with a peripheral anti-androgenic activity and the lowest risk of venous thromboembolism
This paper discusses norgestimate's unique properties as a progestin with anti-androgenic activity and its low risk of venous thromboembolism.
View study[3] Effectiveness of norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in treating moderate acne vulgaris
This study explores the use of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate in reducing androgen levels and treating acne.
View study[4] Norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
This randomized trial compares the efficacy of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate with placebo in treating moderate acne.
View study[5] Molecular action of norgestimate: new developments
This review explains how norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol reduce sebum production and treat acne by targeting androgen activity.
View study[6] Treating acne with oral contraceptives: use of lower doses
This paper reviews the effectiveness of low-dose oral contraceptives, including ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, in treating acne.
View study[7] Update and future of systemic acne treatment
This review discusses hormonal treatments for acne, including ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, and their role in reducing sebum production.
View study[8] New developments in hormonal therapy for acne
This paper highlights the use of oral contraceptives, including ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, as a treatment option for acne.
View study[9] Hormonal treatment of acne: review of current best evidence
This review summarizes the evidence supporting the use of hormonal treatments, including ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate, for acne.
View study[10] Long-term profile of a new progestin
This study evaluates the long-term effects of norgestimate, including its impact on acne and lipid metabolism.
View study[11] A comparison of multiphasic oral contraceptives containing norgestimate or desogestrel in acne treatment: a randomized trial
This randomized trial compares the effectiveness of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate with other oral contraceptives in treating acne.
View study[12] Selectivity and minimal androgenicity of norgestimate in monophasic and triphasic oral contraceptives
This study highlights norgestimate's low androgenic activity and its positive effects on lipid metabolism and acne.
View study[13] The duration of response to norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in the treatment of acne vulgaris
This study investigates the long-term effectiveness of ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate in treating acne.
View study[14] Role of the combination spironolactone-norgestimate-estrogen in Hirsute women with polycystic ovary syndrome
This study compares the combination of spironolactone, norgestimate, and estrogen with other treatments for hirsutism and acne in women with PCOS.
View study