Dianette
Dianette is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe acne and hirsutism (excessive body and facial hair) in women. It combines two active ingredients, cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol, which work together to address hormonal imbalances causing these conditions.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Womens
- Price (if prescribed): from £16.99
- Typical supply: 84 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Dianette prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3×21 pack | £16.99 |
| Standard | 6×21 pack | £24.99 |
Dianette: Effective Treatment for Acne and Hirsutism
What is Dianette?
Dianette is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe acne and hirsutism (excessive body and facial hair) in women. It combines two active ingredients, cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol, which work together to address hormonal imbalances causing these conditions.
While Dianette also acts as a combined oral contraceptive, it is not recommended solely for contraceptive purposes. It is typically prescribed when other acne treatments, such as creams or antibiotics, have failed to show results.
How Does Dianette Work?
Treating Acne and Hirsutism
Excessive androgens (male hormones) can stimulate oil production in the skin and promote hair growth. Dianette reduces androgen levels, helping to:
- Decrease oil production in the sebaceous glands, clearing acne.
- Inhibit excessive hair growth on the face and body.
Contraceptive Properties
Dianette also prevents pregnancy by:
- Preventing ovulation.
- Thickening cervical mucus makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg.
- Thinning the womb lining to prevent egg implantation.
However, due to potential risks, it is not recommended to use Dianette solely as a contraceptive.
How to Take Dianette?
Dosage and Administration
- Take one tablet daily at the same time each day.
- Each pack contains 21 tablets. After finishing the pack, take a 7-day break during which a withdrawal bleed occurs (similar to a menstrual period).
- Start the next pack immediately after the 7-day break.
Missed Dose Instructions
- If a dose is missed, take it within 12 hours.
- If more than 12 hours have passed, the missed dose cannot be made up, and alternative contraception (e.g., condoms) should be used for the next 7 days.
How Long Does Dianette Take to Work?
Visible results can appear within a few weeks. However, the recommended minimum treatment duration is 3 months. A healthcare professional will reassess your progress at this time to determine if treatment should continue.
Once your skin condition is under control, you may switch to an alternative contraceptive if required.
Potential Side Effects of Dianette
Dianette is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience mild side effects, including:
- Changes in menstrual bleeding
- Headaches
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Breast tenderness
- Weight changes
Rare Side Effects
- Increased risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Mood swings or depression
- Gallstones or high blood pressure
If you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, blurred vision, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
Who Should Not Use Dianette?
Dianette is not suitable for:
- Women with a history of blood clots, heart or liver disease, or stroke.
- Those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- Smokers over the age of 35.
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Those with severe migraines or allergies to the active ingredients.
Inform your healthcare professional about any pre-existing conditions or medications you are taking during your consultation.
How to Buy Dianette Online Safely?
You can purchase Dianette from Medihealth Direct after completing a confidential online consultation. Once approved by one of our healthcare professionals, your prescription will be processed, and your medication will be dispatched via next-day delivery.
Dianette FAQs
Can Dianette be used as a contraceptive?
Yes, but it is primarily prescribed for treating acne and hirsutism. It is not recommended for contraception alone.
How long should I take Dianette?
Treatment duration depends on your healthcare professional’s advice, but a minimum of 3 months is recommended.
Can I use Daktarin Cream on children?
Yes, Daktarin Cream is safe for children, but consult your GP for proper dosage instructions.
Can Dianette help with weight loss?
Dianette is not intended for weight management and may cause slight weight changes in some users.
Does Dianette stop periods?
Dianette allows for a withdrawal bleed during the 7-day pill break, which mimics a period.
Is it safe to buy Dianette online?
Yes, provided you purchase it from a reputable source like Medihealth Direct. Complete a consultation to ensure it is suitable for you.
How does the online consultation for Dianette work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
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