Diane-35 is pill made up of two drugs; a steroidal antiandrogen (progestogen) called cyproterone acetate and an estrogen called ethinyl estradiol. We carry the brand name Diane-35 in three 21 day packs.

This medication is used for females who suffer from severe acne (that other medications haven’t had success in healing) along with seborrhea (scaly, flaky, itchy, and red skin caused by excess oils) or mild hirsutism (excess growth of facial or body hair). This medication provides effective birth control as well, however it is not indicated as such and should not be used solely as a contraceptive.

Diane-35 works by reducing the activity that happens in the oil-producing skin glands, which is an essential role in acne production. By blocking the effects of androgens (hormones) it helps to decrease the speed of hair growth. Cyproterone acetate also suppresses ovulation which helps in preventing pregnancy.

Diane-35 is a medication in which you take in 28 day cycles. Each cycle consists of 1 tablet per day for 21 days, after 21 days, you go through the following week without medication; 3 weeks on, 1 week off.

Begin your first tablet of the package on the first day of your period; continue taking the pill at the same time every day.

Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water (8oz).

Women with thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, or a history of these conditions should not use Diane-35.

Using this product increases your risk of venous thromboembolic (blood clots in deep veins of the leg, groin or arm).

Do not use other medications containing estrogens or progestogens

This medication should not be used for the sole purpose of avoiding pregnancy.

You should get regular checkups while on Diane-35 to monitor your progress and determine if you still need treatment. You no longer need treatment 3-4 cycles after the symptoms have resolved.

Cigarettes increase the risk of serious effects on the heart and blood vessels while using Diane-35; avoid smoking while using this medication.

This is not a complete list of side effects nor is it likely you will experience all of them if any at all. If side effects ever become unbearable, contact your doctor right away.

Side effects may include:

•  nausea and vomiting

•  pain during your period

•  symptoms similar to those you may have before your period such as mood changes or irritability

•  changes in your sex drive

•  breast tenderness, changes, enlargement, or discharge

•  decrease in milk supply in women who are breastfeeding

•  headache, dizziness

• nervousness

• development of golden brown patches on the face (chloasma)

• increase or decrease in weight and appetite

• runny or stuffy nose, or sneezing (rhinitis)

• the cervix is the opening of the womb. It can change with growth of tissue or produce vaginal

• secretions

• difficulty getting pregnant after stopping treatment

Please be aware that this medication can cause abnormal blood test, papanicolaou (pap) smear, breast examination, and urine test results. Always let your healthcare professionals know exactly what medications you are taking before proceeding with any sort of medical procedure.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of reach of children and pets in a room temperature area.

What other drug interactions are there?

Antihistamines (e.g., chlorpheniramine, loratidine), antimigraine medications (e.g., dihydroergotamine), antacids, alcohol, antiseizure medicines (e.g. carbamazepine, lamotrigine), caffeine are all drugs that will interact with Diane-35. This is not a complete list.

Is this medication safe for pregnant women or women that breastfeed?

Diane-35 should not be used while pregnant as it can cause harm to your baby. It is not recommend you breast feed while on this medication as it can pass through breast milk and decrease the quality of it.

Asides from treating symptoms, what are the benefits of Diane-35?

Diane-35 may also lighten your period as well as make it more regular. You may find a decrease in period pain and a reduction of greasiness found in skin and hair.