Dianette
Dianette, a combination of Cyproterone Acetate and synthetic oestrogen, taken in the first 21 days followed by seven pill-free days in an idealized 28-day cycle, has been the mainstay for the treatment of PCOS for many years. Cyproterone Acetate, a progestogen, suppresses ovarian function and competes for testosterone binding to hair follicles and other testosterone-sensitive tissue. Oestrogen is used to supplement suppressed ovarian production of the natural hormone as well as increasing sex hormone production by the liver. Dianette is effective in reducing body hair growth and, in addition, as a contraceptive and does not regulate cycles in those with irregular periods. It does not, however, address insulin resistance with all its metabolic consequences, infertility and many women are unable to tolerate its oestrogen content. Also because if its oestrogen content, recent health directives warned against long-term use because of the risk of breast cancer.
Dianette is not available in the USA.