Prostatic Neoplasms, Premature Menopause, Menorrhagia, Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Pregnancy, Breast Neoplasms, Hypogonadism, Hot Flashes, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency
Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol are used primarily as birth control pills to prevent pregnancy. They also help treat moderate acne in women who want oral contraception and manage symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome. Ethinyl estradiol helps regulate menstrual cycles, while drospirenone can reduce water retention and improve acne.
These medications work by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. Ethinyl estradiol, a synthetic estrogen, regulates the menstrual cycle and maintains the uterine lining. Drospirenone, a synthetic progestin, also prevents ovulation and has anti-androgenic effects, which means it can help with acne. Together, they thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg, and alter the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
The usual adult daily dose is one tablet taken at the same time each day. Each tablet contains specific amounts of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. The exact dosage can vary depending on the specific formulation prescribed by a healthcare provider. It's important to follow the prescribed schedule without missing doses to ensure effective contraception. If a dose is missed, following the instructions provided with the medication or consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
Common side effects include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, and mood changes. Ethinyl estradiol can cause changes in menstrual flow, while drospirenone may lead to increased potassium levels, which is important for heart and muscle function. Significant adverse effects can include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially in smokers or women over 35. It's important to monitor for symptoms like severe headaches, chest pain, or leg swelling, and consult a healthcare provider if they occur.
These medications should not be used by women who smoke and are over 35, due to an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. Ethinyl estradiol can increase these risks, while drospirenone can raise potassium levels, so caution is needed in those with kidney, liver, or adrenal disease. They are contraindicated in pregnancy and should be discontinued if pregnancy occurs. Regular medical check-ups are advised to monitor for any adverse effects.
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
NO
NO
Estrogen, Progestin
NO