Dianette consists of the anti-androgen Cyproterone acetate 2 mg, and the oestrogen hormone ethinylestradiol 35 micrograms. It is not recommended as contraception now due to higher blood clot risks, but can be safely used as an acne and hirsuitism treatment on a shorter-term basis, under supervision of a doctor. Dianette is very often the first treatment for ladies with hyper-androgenic disorders, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
I have used Dianette twice in the past. Once as contraception and to help my acne. I used it for 8 months but discontinued due to horrible side effects, which I will mention below. The next time was 3 years later after being diagnosed with PCOS, as an anti-androgen to clear cysts and acne. I discontinued after 4 months due to becoming suicidal.
I took it in the normal 21-day regimen followed by a 7 day break.
Advantages:
Works as a contraceptive
Works as an acne treatment
Disadvantages:
Didn't do anything for my acne
My ovaries felt like shards of glass were being pushed through them on the 7-day break in particular.
Not safe for long-term use.
Tends to cause depression (possibly the higher oestrogen, but also the progestogen type)
Ridiculous weight gain in spite of diet and exercise.
Headaches and low moods.
I felt irritable all the time and constantly cried.
Very tender breasts - probably the higher oestrogen.
I would not write this pill off completely. I know of some great success stories from other acne and PCOS sufferers. Unfortunately not me though!
Nowadays there are safer pills available that will help acne and work as a contraceptive, such as Yasmin, Marvelon, Cilest, Mercilon.
With any pill, you must allow 3-6 months for your body to adapt and to see any positive effects. If, however, the negative effects take over, no pill is worth going through something awful!
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Yes that's very true, it is trial and error as it depends so much on our current hormonal state.
Bernie1986 08.01.2009 00:14
Thank you! Yes I am on Yasmin and it is much better. You're right, it depends on our bodies, our current hormonal state and any other things we are sensitive to... best wishes! x
Jan 7th, 2009
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