Ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Althea (drug))

Ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate is a combination of ethinylestradiol, an estrogen, and cyproterone acetate, an antiandrogen and progestogen. It is an oral contraceptive that is used widely in the treatment of androgen-dependent conditions like acne, seborrhea, hirsutism, and androgenic alopecia in women.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "ethinylestradiol" is derived from the words "ethynyl" and "estradiol". "Ethynyl" refers to the presence of a triple bond between two carbon atoms, while "estradiol" is a type of estrogen, a hormone that plays a key role in the female reproductive system. "Cyproterone acetate" is named after its two components: "cyproterone", an antiandrogen and progestogen, and "acetate", a salt or ester of acetic acid.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic estrogen that is more potent than natural estrogens. It works by inhibiting the release of gonadotropins, which in turn prevents ovulation. Cyproterone acetate is a derivative of progesterone and has antiandrogenic properties. It works by blocking the effects of androgens in the body, which can help to reduce symptoms of androgen-dependent conditions.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate is primarily used as an oral contraceptive. It is also used in the treatment of androgen-dependent conditions in women, such as acne, seborrhea, hirsutism, and androgenic alopecia. In addition, it can be used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by high levels of androgens and irregular menstrual periods.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, headache, breast tenderness, changes in menstrual periods, and mood changes. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as blood clots, liver problems, and allergic reactions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD