Diane 35 (Ethinyl Estradiol/Cyproterone)

Diane 35 Information:

Diane 35 (generic name: Ethinyl Estradiol and Cyproterone) is a contraceptive drug containing a combination of active ingredients. It is also sometimes prescribed for women with acne. Cyproterone belongs to a group of drugs called anti-androgens. Ethinly Estradiol is a type of estrogen hormone. Diane 35 works in three ways: it prevents eggs from being released from the ovaries (ovulation), thickens the cervical mucus to deter sperm from entering the uterus and also thins the lining of the womb to prevent a fertilised egg from attaching. Although the birth control pill is a method of contraceptive, like all contraceptives it is not 100% safe and is noted as 99% effective, so it is advised that other methods of protection be used in addition for added protection, such as condoms. Diane 35 is a monophasic pill, meaning that the first 21 pills in the packet contain the same amount of the two ingredients. Diane 35 tricks the body into thinking that it is pregnant, thus preventing ovulation.

Diane 35 Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Diane 35 including mild nausea, vomiting, bloating, stomach cramps, breast pain, tenderness of the breasts, freckles or darkening of the facial skin, increased hair growth, loss of scalp hair, changes in weight or appetite, problems with contact lenses, vaginal itching or discharge, changes in menstrual periods, decreased sex drive, headache, nervousness and fatigue. More serious side effects may include sudden and severe headaches, sudden numbness or weakness, pain behind the eyes, vision problems chest pain, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder severe nausea, loss or appetite, jaundice, swelling in the hands or feet and depression. If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Diane 35 Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Diane 35 to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Diane 35 comes in tablet form. You should swallow Diane 35 whole with a glass of water. Diane 35 should be taken at the same time every day, and should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Diane 35 is designed to be taken every day for 3 weeks, with a break for one week, and should be taken once every 24 hours around the same time for maximum protection.

Diane 35 Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Diane 35, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including history of stroke or blood clots, circulation problems, hormone related cancers, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease of cancer of the liver, severe high blood pressure, severe migraines, heart valve disorders, a history of jaundice, history of depression, gallbladder disease, diabetes, seizure disorders, uterine fibroids, varicose veins and tuberculosis. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Diane 35, including antibiotics, acetaminophen, prednisolone, theophylline, cyclosporine, St John’s Wort, seizure medications barbiturate sedatives and HIV/AIDs medications. It is important that you inform your doctor if you become pregnant or breastfeeding as Diane 35 may cause harm to unborn and new born babies. You should not stop taking Diane 35 without using another form of contraceptive. Diane 35 does not prevent STIs/STDs and therefore other forms of contraceptives are recommended such as condoms. It is advised that you do not smoke when taking Diane 35 or other birth control medications, as this increases the risk of stroke and heart disease/heart attack.