Diane-35 is a prescription combination hormonal medication containing cyproterone acetate (2mg) (an anti-androgen and progestin) and ethinylestradiol (35mcg) (an estrogen). While it functions as an effective birth control pill, it is primarily indicated and medically regulated as a treatment for severe, hormone-sensitive skin and hair conditions.
Primary Uses
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Androgen-Dependent Skin Conditions: It is prescribed for moderate to severe acne (often linked to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS) that has failed to improve after topical therapies or oral antibiotics. It also treats very oily skin (seborrhea).
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Hirsutism: It helps reduce excessive, unwanted facial or body hair growth in women.
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Contraception: It prevents ovulation, alters cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the uterine lining. However, regulatory guidelines like those from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) state it should not be prescribed for contraception alone due to its specific risk profile.
How It Is Taken
Diane-35 comes in a 21-day blister pack.
- Take one tablet daily at roughly the same time for 21 consecutive days.
- Follow this with a 7-day pill-free interval, during which you will experience a withdrawal bleed (similar to a period).
- Start the next pack exactly on the 8th day, even if your bleeding has not stopped.
Side Effects & Important Risks
Like many combined hormonal therapies, Diane-35 carries a higher risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots) compared to some other birth control options.
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Common Side Effects
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Severe Symptoms (Seek Immediate Medical Care)
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• Nausea and abdominal pain
• Headaches
• Breast tenderness or pain
• Weight changes (often due to fluid retention)
• Mood fluctuations or depression
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• Sharp chest pain or sudden shortness of breath
• Unexplained swelling, pain, or warmth in one leg
• Severe, unexpected migraines or vision updates
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
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Who Should Avoid It
Do not take Diane-35 if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a history of blood clots, severe liver disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or are a smoker over the age of 35. Because it acts as a birth control pill, you must never combine it with another hormonal contraceptive, as this will cause a dangerous hormone overdose.
