Co-cyprindiol

How it works

Cyproterone acetate blocks androgen receptors and reduces sebum production, while the combination suppresses ovarian androgen output and provides cycle control.

Prescribing in practice

• It carries a higher risk of venous thromboembolism than some combined oral contraceptives, so it should not be used solely as a contraceptive and treatment should be reviewed and usually stopped once the skin condition has responded.
• It is contraindicated where combined hormonal contraceptives are contraindicated, including a history of venous or arterial thromboembolism and certain migraine with aura.
• It should not be used in combination with another hormonal contraceptive because of the additive thrombotic risk.

Monitoring

Assess venous and arterial thromboembolism risk factors, blood pressure, and treatment response before and during use, and review the need to continue periodically.

Counselling the patient

• Seek urgent medical advice for symptoms of a clot such as a swollen, painful calf, chest pain, or sudden breathlessness.
• This is taken for your skin condition; it also acts as a contraceptive but should not be used for contraception alone.
• Treatment is usually stopped some months after the skin condition has cleared.

Evidence & guidelines

The MHRA advises that co-cyprindiol carries an increased thromboembolism risk and should be used for defined dermatological indications rather than as a routine contraceptive.