Ginette

Uses
Ginette (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) is used as a combined oral contraceptive pill. It is also administered as a treatment for women affected by acne which is severe in nature. This medicine is a combination of two active components. Ethinylestradiol is an oestradiol derivative which is included as a key ingredient in many different oral contraceptive pills. When this medicine is taken as directed, it can help to prevent pregnancy by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg.

It also increases the difficulty for sperm to fertilize the egg. The other ingredient, Cyprotone acetate belongs to a class of medicines referred to as anti-androgens. An androgen is a male hormone which women also make. Excess androgen production can lead to acne, due to the effects it has on the sebaceous glands in the skin. Hair growth may also occur. These symptoms may be common in patients affected by polycystic ovary syndrome.

Taking these tablets can stop the androgens from being released, which in turn helps stop the negative effects that can occur on the skin while also preventing abnormal hair growth. Generally speaking, these tablets are not used for the purpose of preventing birth alone, but to relieve the symptoms of acne, oily skin and hirsutism (excessive growth of hair) in women who also wish to use oral contraceptives.

Dosage and Administration
Ginette (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) is known as a 21 day oral contraceptive. The packet contains 21 tablets, and patients are generally instructed to take it once per day for a period of 21 days followed by a 7 day tablet free period. Treatment usually restarts after the 7 days (on day 8), meaning that if the last tablet is administered on a Friday, the next one should be taken on the next Saturday. However, see your doctor before taking this medicine for a medical assessment. Your doctor will tell you whether or not it is a suitable option for you. Only take the amount of medicine that your doctor instructs you to take. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Side effects
Women who administer Ginette (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) might experience some side effects, such as:

• Headache
• Feeling depressed
• Aches in the stomach
• Increased body weight
• Pain which affects the breasts

Have a discussion with your doctor if you notice any side effects. Remember that the list of reactions given here is not complete, and other reactions may not occur, some of which could be serious and will require immediate treatment. Examples of this include severe liver problems, blood clots, yellowing of the eyes or skin and other reactions that are not referenced here. Talk to your doctor about all possible side effects before taking these tablets.

Precautions
Using combined oral contraceptives has been associated with a higher risk of blood clots. This is even more likely in patients with certain risk factors, such as sickle cell disease, high blood pressure, smokers, those who are over 35 years old, obese people and other risk factors. Immediate treatment will be needed if any signs of a blood clot are noticed.

Taking contraceptive pills will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Ginette (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.